Rumon Gamba

Rumon Gamba’s hand was unshakable. Every detail in the score was prepared in advance and the orchestra played as if the symphony was a matter of life and death, as it actually was for Shostakovich himself. Gamba was able to focus the orchestra to its highest level from the opening movement’s experimental, hesitating introduction, to its parody of a military march, and finally as it slowly died away into emptiness... The orchestra played until sparks sprung over the edge of the stage; a big and full string sound was complimented by the fine woodwinds and the grandiose brass. (6* Review - Nordyske, September 2011)

"The music flows abundantly, it is beautiful and Rumon Gamba encourages his orchestra to play with verve and drama, and the brass is particularly striking." (Vasterbottens Folkbladet, February 2011)

"These are performances that mirror the music itself in their ultra-clear verve and colour." (BBC Music Magazine, April 2010)

"Gamba led the orchestra with such a certainty and with the orchestra’s high-levelled standard, it was a fantastic performance." (Ongakunotomo Magazine, February 2010)

"The performances, with Rumon Gamba conducting the BBC Philharmonic, are terrific." (The Guardian, January 2010)