The Cleveland Orchestra went full out in its 10th anniversary in south Florida. The headliner for the grand night was opera diva. It was a grand night, full of pomp, circumstance and music. The music was conducted by musical director Franz Welser. It was an affair that very few cities could hope to host. Miami just happens to be one of those cities. Fleming was not only star of the show, she was the star of the show.
To quote Cleveland.com, "In soprano Renee Fleming, the group enjoyed not only a household name but also a serious artist, a worthy and compelling partner capable of anchoring a program and bringing a crowd to its feet repeatedly. She did not disappoint. With just six selections, including two encores, Fleming covered and displayed an enormous range, treating listeners to several delightful rarities along with stunning accounts of great arias."
In another review on Cleveland.com, Zachary Lewis had nothing but praise for the orchestra and their passion. He noted several times that there was mistakes but the orchestra plowed right through them and soldiered on without missing a beat, "Not every aspect of the performances under Franz Welser-Most was perfect, and extraneous noises both evenings hindered concentration. Still, much about them was excellent, and no one could label them anything less than impassioned."
One of the most treasured orchestras in the America, the Cleveland Orchestra's long history in south Florida is proof of its broad appeal. The Orchestra has all the right in the world to be happy with its accomplishments. There aren't many other orchestras in this country that have the money, in these financially constrained times.The Cleveland Orchestra has not only done it but flourished as well.
