Jazz musicians have been known to accuse classical performers of not being creative, of merely reproducing existing notes in over-played works. That’s a harsh judgement because classical ensembles have to be creative in order to deliver fresh interpretation of works which have been heard in concerts thousands of times. Audiences soon disengage unless tried and tested pieces are given new ideas.

Revolution Remixed, Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra. Photo supplied

This performance of Beethoven’s Third Symphony, Eroica, proved that Camerata is more than capable of arresting the ear with a generously imagined interpretation. The rendition had a force field of energy, colour and an unusually heightened fervour and formidable attack.

The Eroica revolutionised symphonic form with its daring emotional intensity, ambitious structural gestures and its maelstrom of sharp tonal contrasts, sudden pauses and fevered intensity. There’s nothing worse than a mannered and polite performance.

“I believe that heaven and earth will tremble when it is performed for the first time,” said Beethoven’s student Ferdinand Ries about this monumental work.

Camerata played to the hilt and did its best to achieve Ries’ vision. The initial accented chords were a call to arms, the...