In a slick and controlled, Spanish-themed season finale from Jaime Martín, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra celebrated the end of an excellent first year with their new Chief Conductor. In a classic Ravel, Rodrigo, de Falla program that highlighted the landscape of Martín’s native Spain, the orchestra twirled and swayed their way through the dance-driven repertoire.

Jaime Martín conducts the MSO’s Season Finale Gala: Boléro! Photo © Laura Manariti

Maurice Ravel’s Rapsodie Espagnole, written in the composer’s ‘Spanish year’ of 1907, made for a compelling beginning – Martín demonstrating beautiful control, allowing the work’s watercolour-like shades to emerge. The opening movement, measured yet muscular, showed off Ravel’s painterly orchestration; a masterclass in nuance and control. The second movement sparkled with virtuosity, and the third was full of stylishly-handled dance rhythms and sultry slides. Finally, the fourth movement burst forth with a satisfaction only achievable by keeping the lid on the preceding movements. The joy and cheer of the final Feria was a fitting beginning to the celebratory performance; Martín’s rapport with his new orchestra shining through.

The fun continued with the arrival of Spanish guitarist Pablo Sáinz-Villegas, performing the much-loved Concierto de Aranjuez...