“When it comes to symphonic music, few performing arts centers command the prestige of the Musikverein in Vienna [which] often serves as a pivotal stop on the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s European tours, including the current one, which began Jan. 9 in Cologne, Germany, and ends Jan. 23 in Lugano, Switzerland,” writes Howard Reich in last Tuesday’s (1/14) Chicago Tribune. “All three Musikverein concerts, Jan. 11 through 14, were ausverkauft (sold out), as they say in Vienna. Two featured a masterpiece that CSO music director Riccardo Muti and the orchestra have performed to international acclaim: Verdi’s Requiem Mass…. CSO principal bassoon Keith Buncke, said [of the Musikverein], … ‘The sound is rich and warm, and yet you can hear all the voices clearly. A perfect balance of resonance and clarity.’ … In coming days, the CSO will continue to trek across Europe…. Muti returns to conduct the orchestra, chorus and vocal soloists in Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana [in Chicago] starting Feb. 6. After that, the orchestra launches its Florida tour on Feb. 11. The road trips are essential ‘to keep your name out there,’ says [Chicago Symphony Orchestra horn James] Smelser. ‘To remind people what a great orchestra this is.’ ”
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