LPO/Gardner Review: Squirrels, Shepherdesses, and a Storm 2026

The LPO/Gardner review captures a concert that traversed from Norwegian forests to Bavarian Alps, featuring Kristine Tjøgersen's Between Trees, Canteloube's Songs of the Auvergne, and Strauss's An Alpine Symphony under conductor Edward Gardner.

Between Trees: A Squirrel's Soundscape

Kristine Tjøgersen's nature poem opened with the whimsical sound of a squirrel eating, produced by blowing into a water-filled tuba. The piece used extended techniques like prepared harp and strings to explore the hidden fungal network beneath forests, creating a sonic tapestry that felt both innovative and deeply connected to nature.

Canteloube's Auvergne: A Sun-Drenched Interlude

Soprano Louise Alder brought warmth to Canteloube's folk-inspired songs, her creamy voice complementing the rose-tinted orchestrations. Gardner kept the orchestra subdued, allowing the storytelling to shine through tales of shepherdesses and quails.

An Alpine Symphony: Grandeur and Storm

The concert culminated in Strauss's tone poem, depicting a day in the mountains with massive orchestral forces. Gardner balanced delicate chamber textures with thunderous climaxes, including a storm sequence with wind machine and drums that was both deafening and thrilling.

Comparison: Tjøgersen vs. Strauss

Key Takeaways from the Concert

• Innovative use of extended techniques in Tjøgersen's work
• Alder's expressive singing brought Canteloube's songs to life
• Gardner's conducting balanced subtlety with power
• The storm scene was a highlight of sheer orchestral force

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