With a concern for the line that goes forward, Susanna Mälkki actually offers a Dvořák with clear rhythms that approaches the first Sibelius. There is much warmth in this direction of crystalline clarity, much humanity in this snooping and awakening tonicity. Little by little, the Opera Orchestra is transformed by sounds of prodigious simplicity.
“But the real revelation of the evening was the direction of Susanna Mälkki. From the orchestral introduction, the Finnish conductor opted for an analytical and restrained reading. The tutti are dry, the romantic impulses controlled. Some might reproach a certain theatrical reserve, but this elegant and sculpted conduct ideally fits Robert Carsen’s decanted show. With a concern for the line that goes forward, Susanna Mälkki actually offers a Dvořák with clear rhythms that approaches the first Sibelius. There is much warmth in this direction of crystalline clarity, much humanity in this snooping and awakening tonicity. Little by little, the Opera Orchestra is transformed by sounds of prodigious simplicity.”
“Very attentive to the singers and taking care never to cover them, the Finnish conductor offers an elegant, precise and poetic direction of Dvořák’s work…”
Forum Opéra
“The conductor Susanna Mälkki’s precise yet expansive musical gestures certainly revealed new details in Dvořák’s opulent, tuba-rich, Wagner-influenced scoring…”
Opera Magazine