Born in different centuries, and with diverse musical styles, the programming of Beethoven’s violin concerto alongside Dvořák’s eighth symphony may have seemed a quirky combination. And yet, under the expert guidance of conductor and soloist, Guy Braunstein, the juxtaposition of these works was brought carefully together in a well-crafted and intelligently delivered concert by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

Guy Braunstein with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Photo © Sam Muller

Both works are centred strongly around solos and extended playing from the woodwind; the flute, oboe, clarinet and bassoon taking centre stage at various times.  They were supported by some finely crafted horns, solid work from the trumpets and, in the Dvořák, trombones and tuba. The timpani also figured prominently throughout.

Beethoven’s eighteenth-century romanticism was tempered with a range of changes to the classical concerto form that made his powerful and only violin concerto the forerunner of many of the great nineteenth-century concertos, as well as being one of the most often performed in the classical repertoire.

Dvořák created his eighth symphony in a new and interesting form that drew on the influences of both Beethoven and Brahms. However, his composition used a...