New World closes season with majestic Sibelius and vibrant Berlioz
May 8, 2016
Miami Herald
By David Fleshler
“The orchestra was in top form, with glowing tones coming from strings and woodwinds, and refined, resonant ones from the brass. The opening of the Sixth was particularly effective, as austere tones high in the violins swelled with the warmth of woodwinds and horns. In the quick third movement, the orchestra played the rhythmic theme with great precision, a whip-crack ensemble unity that sharply enhanced its effectiveness. In the final movement, after a climax in the full orchestra, the chorale-like tones of the violins return, and Tilson Thomas led a long and effective fade-out as the symphony quietly disappeared.”