Marko Letonja - Conductor

«Thrilling ride in united pursuit of artistic goals brings smiles all round </p> <p>EXCEPTIONAL orchestral performance requires teamwork of the highest order. Marko Letonja's inaugural concert as chief conductor and artistic director of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra was the epitome of teamwork and a musical triumph. </p> <p>Letonja led with modest authority built on secure mastery of his craft, and there was mutual respect in evidence as he and the players worked together in pursuit of unified artistic goals. This concert was about the music, not about the conductor; his restrained and unambiguous gestures served the music and its effective communication at all times. It is rare to see orchestral musicians smile, but the players clearly were enjoying themselves and there was no shortage of smiles across the capacity audience either. </p> <p>This program, showcasing the versatility of the orchestra, may indicate Letonja's vision: highlighting quality Australian and 20th-century masterworks and building on the TSO's established international reputation.»