Review: Russian State Philharmonic, Sheffield City Hall.

On a night when all three pieces came from Tchaikovsky’s pen, Lomeiko was stunning, both in tone and her use of vibrato as she gave a masterclass in the notoriously difficult piece that was panned when it was first played shortly before the composer’s death.  

In a floor-length red gown, Lomeiko brought all the richness of the work together, earning rapturous applause — with some in the audience on their feet.

Her playing felt effortless, but it was also technically highly accomplished, showing compassion and connection with the music to a very high degree.

Almost unbelievably, I overheard someone say at the interval that the violin concerto was “all right” in parts but not very inspiring and he was hoping for something with more “oomph” in the second half.

There is certainly no pleasing some people — even when greatness is in front of them.

Tchaikovsky’s pulsating Marche Slave began the evening in great style and we were not to be disappointed by what followed.

The orchestra, the music and the conductor, the charming Valery Poliansky, were wonderful throughout.

To finish, the beautiful sound and dramatic rhythms of Tchaikovsky’s Tchaikovsky’s fifth symphony.

The piece certainly brought out the best in all sections of the orchestra.

And there was even time for a delightful encore which showed the orchestra’s lighter side.