A twist on some old favourites

New Year in Vienna, Halle Orchestra, Bridgewater Hall

THAT better way to welcome in the New Year than with a selection of pieces plucked from the celebrated musical history of Vienna.

And this year, the superb Halle Orchestra rang in 2011 under the baton of conductor Timothy Redmond, with a marriage of music from Vienna and Budapest.

Separated by less than 50 miles, the two cities are linked not only by the Danube, but by music instantly recognised across the globe.

There were of course all the old favourites, including Johan Strauss II’s beautiful “Blue Danube” waltz, which has long been used to ring out the old and bring in the new.

Other pieces without which a celebration of this ilk would not be complete, included the same composer’s “Thunder and Lightening” quick polka — his most popular polka, and “Tales from the Vienna Woods” waltz.

Brahm’s lively “Hungarian Dance” brought an unusual touch from percussionist Chris Bradley on the distinctive-sounding cimbalom.

Lehar’s wonderful “Gold and Silver” waltz was one of many which evoked images of gorgeous swirling gowns and dapper gents waltzing their partners around the dance floor.

Soprano Mary Plazas gave a wonderful performance as she accompanied the orchestra with several songs, although at times the strength of the orchestra drowned out the sound of her rich and melodious voice.