Tamerlano Blog 9 (22 Feb 2010)

Orchestra reading rehearsals with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightment. (Linbury Theatre). This terrific ensemble (Britain’s 1st self-governing period-instrument orchestra) appears regularly at ROH. This is my third show with them at the Garden. We work fast and attack details straight away. Alison Bury is a dynamic leader and Tony Robson a plangent and feisty 1st oboe! The viola group is particularly strong and characterful, having remained remarkably stable since the early days of the orchestra.

Annette Isserlis, Jan Schlapp, Martin Kelly and Nick Logie make a formidable team. For me it’s great to reconnect with Nick-who with me built up the Glyndebourne Touring Orchestra in the 1990s. We reminisce on the woodwind Princpals of Glyndebourne Tours’ ‘Rakes’ Progress’ who now occupy the same positions in Berlin Philharmonic, Royal Concertgebeow, Philharmonia and Israel Chamber Orchestra!

It’s a long day (and a long piece!) and we cover a lot of ground. Afterwards there is a production call in the evening.  During the day we have learnt the sad news that Plácido Domingo has withdrawn from the role of Bajazet due to preventive surgery. The company is primarily concerned for Plácido’s well-being and quick recovery. He is a much-loved colleague.