NSOI: Peter Whelan conducts Mendelssohn’s ‘Scottish’

National Symphony Orchestra Ireland
Peter Whelan, conductor 
Ellinor D’Melon, violin 

Joseph Bologne Overture to L’Amant anonyme 
Mozart Violin Concerto No. 3 
Mendelssohn Symphony No. 3, ‘Scottish’ 

Three master composers, two master musicians and National Symphony Orchestra Ireland with a lively Overture by Joseph Bologne, an elegant Mozart Violin Concerto, and Mendelssohn’s evocative Scottish Symphony.

National Symphony Orchestra Ireland’s new Artistic Partner, the ‘dynamic’ (The Times) Peter Whelan makes the first of two podium appearances this season with the ‘simply fabulous’ (The Irish Times) violinist Ellinor D’Melon making a welcome return with fresh and vibrant Mozart. 

Read Spotlight on Peter Whelan

The vitality and elegance of the Overture to L’Amant anonyme by Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges shows why he was favourably compared to Mozart. Of French-African heritage, he overcame prejudice to become a celebrity figure in pre-revolutionary France, interest in his often bold, always refined music re-ignited by the 2022 film, Chevalier. 

Boasting a bright, cheerful Allegro, a serene, expressive Adagio, and a lively Rondeau finale with dance-like folk elements, the melodic charm and inventiveness of Mozart’s youthful Third Violin Concerto has long made it a favourite for violinists and audiences alike.

The sweeping romanticism of Mendelssohn’s Third Symphony evokes the atmospheric ruins of Holyrood Palace and the rugged beauty of Scotland’s landscapes in a captivating musical postcard coloured by lively folk-inspired rhythms – not least the distinctive ‘Scotch snap’ – and a majestic, hymn-like finale.

Presented by NCH