On 10/25/2022 8:26 AM, Andrew Clarke wrote:
"Few modern maestros looked the part as much as Pesek, who on the podium cut a charismatic, old-fashioned figure exuding authority. His long white baton drew magic arcs over the heads of his players, as if casting spells from the rostrum. He was also
one of life’s charmers, exuding impeccable manners as he bowed low to kiss women on the hand.
At the same time he was an early example of the new breed of less autocratic conductor. He preferred to work in partnership with his musicians and was always ready to ask their advice during rehearsals. In return the players developed a warm affection
for him, respecting his musical humility and responsive personality and his ability to assert his authority without hectoring.
The relationship with the RLPO had come about in 1986. In time honoured-fashion Pesek was asked to step in for an indisposed colleague at two concerts conducting Asrael, an hour-long romantic symphony by his compatriot Josef Suk, whose music he later
did much to champion on Merseyside.
He recalled that although the performances received an enthusiastic response from players, audiences and critics, he was initially unsure about accepting the orchestra’s offer to make the city his regular base. “At first, I didn’t feel like going
to Liverpool,” he admitted. “But my manager kept talking about the significance of the oldest English orchestra and I eventually consented.” He later described himself as a proud Czech, Liverpudlian and Adelphian, a reference to the city hotel that
became something of a home from home."
- Daily Telegraph, London
Andrew Clarke
Canberra
I don't have a lot of his recordings, but those I do have are gems. Martinu concertos with Firkusny and Rachmaninov #1 and Rhapsody with Pletnev. Nothing with the the Liverpudlians.
Recommendations?
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