Susanna Mälkki made the Cleveland Orchestra sound like a shinier, more transparent version of its usual self ...
The orchestra under Malkki handled the score’s lyrical, emotional moments with uncommon suavity. In this regard, both the strings and percussion sections were exceptional. That wasn’t the limit of Malkki’s interpretive prowess. No, the conductor also possessed a unique sense of balance, an interest in highlighting music that’s often subdued. Wherever the score depicted crowds, she revealed whole pockets of overlooked activity. In short, even for the true Stravinsky fan, the experience was enlightening.”