Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO). Concert Hall, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), Brisbane. 17 November 2023
QSO’s final performance of 2023 was a rollicking run through the minds of three great composers – Rossini, Mozart and Prokofiev (on Saturday, Schubert was added to the mix) in a programme that encapsulated the orchestra’s year-long focus on the 150-year classical period. The charismatic Chief Conductor, Umberto Clerici, explained that these genius composers were working to get back to basics after a period of long performances, some as extended as two hours, the classical composers were giving audiences a sharper selection of short performances.