Written by Marguerite Ducroquet
As I sat all ears at a classical music concert I attended recently in Valletta, I was hit like a bolt out of the blue by the captivating beauty of the oboe. I felt as if I had never savoured this sound before. As if I were re-discovering the charm of this sirenic instrument.
The musician playing Albinoni’s concerto morphed into a magician bewitching the audience, and challenging my heart to switch to a slower beat and help me lie back even more.
It’s unreal to think that such a heavenly sound was produced by a human being. The oboe made of wood and metal keys is clear as a bell. Warm and vibrant. I had almost forgotten how alluring the notes it produced were. Going to the opening concert of the Malta International Organ Festival in Valletta triggered a flood of memories.
The experience was even better with my eyes closed. Shutting down all my senses bar hearing. Taking in the elegance and the delicacy. Which brought tears to my eyes, three times. Even though I previously been an oboist myself, I felt a new sensation.
The performance by the soloist reached its peak thanks to a wind section of the orchestra and the acoustics of the Jesuits Church in Merchants Street.
I went to this concert almost accidentally. It was a Saturday and I was still unsure what to do for the day. I ended up booking my seat on impulse. Going to a cultural event on my own could be a good idea, I thought. In fact, it turned out to be a rewarding experience.
If you’d like to hear what an oboe sounds like why not listen to Albinoni’s Oboe Concerto Op. 9 no. 2?
Not having yet discovered the joy of classical music doesn’t mean one cannot enjoy it. Music raises the curtain on joyful vistas. Not to mention spiritual emotions.