COE/Haitink/Pires review– a satisfying but risk-averse performance

Royal Albert Hall, London
Conductor Bernard Haitink is not prone to flamboyance, but these works cry out for more sparkle; Maria João Pires, nevertheless, proves an energising partner

Even in his younger days, Bernard Haitink was never a conductor given to flamboyance. Now aged 86, the characteristic avoidance of histrionics has become almost the essence of his work with the orchestras fortunate enough to be conducted by him. These days, Haitink concerts are models of tact and good judgment in the service of music that is invariably very beautifully played. The results are almost always balanced and satisfying. But in some music they can sometimes be a little unchallenging.

This prom with the outstanding Chamber Orchestra of Europe had such a feel. From the very start of Schubert’s C major Overture in the Italian style — very much that of Rossini — there were the familiar Haitink virtues of orchestral warmth, plus a determination to keep things moving. But the overture is quite a slight piece. It cries out for a bit more sparkle.

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