Bravo for Bruckner

Last month, I was "set back on my heels" with the awesome performance of Bruckner's Seventh Symphony by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

I am usually not one who is eager to hear a Bruckner or Mahler symphony. Works by those composers usually require a large complement of instruments on stage, which in turn necessitates an orchestration that includes many doublings (two or more instruments playing the same part). Frequently this type of orchestration results in a thick texture that can cover up subtle developmental episodes and soloistic moments. On top of this, many listeners feel the composer takes such a long time to present his ideas. The clean outlines associated with classical ideas, such as contrasting sections and a focus on developing motivic elements, are for the most part missing in this Post-Romantic period music.

What I did hear was Manfred Honeck's superb interpretation of the Bruckner score. He was assisted by his "army of generals" on stage, superb musicians who played with great technical skill and musical eloquence. What Mr. Honeck's interpretation gave to this music was a certain transparency, a clarity of texture, so that the music "breathed," revealing threads of ideas normally not heard in other performances. In addition, there was a wide gamut of dynamic expression (loud and soft moments), which added to the drama and sense of journey.

He brought out the best in ensemble playing. In particular the brass section played with a sonority rarely heard in past performances of this work in Heinz Hall. Utilizing a wonderful combination of blend and balance, there was a profoundness in their sound that projected a depth of expression which transcends words. The manner in which Bruckner orchestrated for brass (which included a quartet of Wagner Tubas), is a clear example of how Wagner's music influenced Bruckner.

"Bravo" to Manfred Honeck and the PSO!

John Bauerlein
Mt. Lebanon

WDUQ: Don't run for the hills

I find it hard to believe the decision to sell WDUQ is purely financial.

Duquesne's commitment to the station over the years has been a credit to the university and a true service to the community. Duquesne has gained a rightful place in the region, and the nation, as a leader in promoting responsible citizenship and civic engagement. It has also been above reproach for its integrity. Why would a university and its board wish to sell such a priceless asset?

I would be extremely concerned and disappointed if the university is considering selling the station because of concerns about future ethical dilemmas inherent in operating a public media outlet within the constraints of a conservative Catholic institution.

As President Obama admonished the Democrats, don't "run for the hills." If the university abandons WDUQ, the community will find a new outlet -- but the university will lose an asset that will never be returned -- trust.

Jim Lenkner
Park Place

Critics Andrew Druckenbrod and Scott Mervis talk about music on "The Beat," available exclusively at PG+, a members-only web site of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Our introduction to PG+ gives you all the details.