Michael Francis Conducts the San Francisco Symphony in "My Classic Americana," With Pianist Charlie Albright in His San Francisco Debut by Steven Kruger
Davies Hall, San Francisco
The San Francisco Symphony
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Michael Francis – conductor
Copland – Appalachian Spring
Gershwin – Rhapsody in Blue
Charlie Albright – piano
Bernstein – Symphonic Dances from West Side Story
Copland – Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo
It’s silly season again at the San Francisco Symphony! A quick report from the front. And a debut teaser for later. Do we have a new Horowitz?
In perfect weather, with no need for a sylvan retreat, we San Franciscans simply shine a colored spotlight on the Davies Hall organ pipes in July, and Presto, music becomes festive! “My Classic Americana” is one of several programs containing well-known works Michael Francis has been leading this summer, with super zest and limited rehearsal. At times he’s got us clapping along in such good spirits, we might as well be at the Albert Hall Proms. The young Englishman has now conducted several summer seasons in San Francisco and is a great hit with our audience, bringing just the right touch of knowing wit, uncomplicated musicality, good spirits and schoolboy snark to the proceedings.
Read the full review on the Berkshire Review an international journal for the arts!
