Edinburgh’s Usher Hall tonight hosts the European debut of NYO2—Carnegie Hall’s amazing youth orchestra for 14–17-year-olds. Led by the energetic conductor Rafael Payare, they perform a bold and exciting programme, including Shostakovich’s First Cello Concerto and Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony as part of the Edinburgh International Festival.
The evening begins though with an unexpected treat, Jimmy López’s Perú Negro (2012), a dazzling tribute to Afro-Peruvian musical traditions. It’s rhythmically electric and full of colour, the highlight of the night for me. The percussion drives it with so much energy, and the whole orchestra plays with real joy and confidence. It’s a perfect way to start.
Visually, the stage looks fantastic. The orchestra wears red and black, with cellist Alisa Weilerstein standing out in a shimmering gold dress. She looks and sounds brilliant. Payare, dressed in black with his trademark bouncy, curly afro, is a magnetic presence—full of energy and youth and style.
Weilerstein gives a passionate and intense performance of Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto. Her sound is rich and powerful, and the long solo section is particularly gripping. The young players back her with incredible focus and maturity. It’s a difficult piece, but they handle it beautifully.
After the break comes Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5, written during World War II as a celebration of the human spirit. The orchestra plays with both strength and sensitivity. The first movement starts quietly and grows steadily, while the second is fast and exciting. The third is slower and dreamy, and the final movement explodes with energy and joy. It’s impossible not to be swept up in it.
The sound in the Usher Hall is extraordinary, warm and crisp, letting every detail come through. Payare’s energetic gesticulating, jumping in the air at times, brings out the full colour and emotion of the music. The players aren’t just performing—they’re living the music with him.
This concert marks the start of NYO2’s time at the festival, and what a way to begin. These young musicians have serious talent, and they bring it all to the stage tonight, the NYO2’s debut isn’t just promising, it’s unforgettable
Reviewer: Greg Holstead
Reviewed: 3rd August 2025
North West End UK Rating:
Running time – 2hr