“Georgia Today” by Ivan Nechaev
Svetlana Smolina was Grand in Variations on a Theme of Corelli Op. 42, her clarity and expressive
depth highlighting the ability to instill a strong sense of musicality and technical control. In a
magnificent Finale Svetlana and Vakhtang Kodanashvili delivered Suite No. 2, Op. 17 with technical
precision and interpretative insight, highlighting the emphasis on collaborative musicianship and
detailed interpretation.
“The Day” by Lee Howard
The highlight of the evening had to be Sergei Rachmaninoff “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini”, Op.
43, featuring the smoking hot playing of pianist Svetlana Smolina, who came out on stage in
glittering red gown so beguiling that the audience chuckled when she sat in front of the keys.
Never letting her concentration waver, Smolina proceeded to pounce on each note with either great
ferocity or eager tenderness, majestically alternating between a clump of chords and a cascade of
shimmering harp like high notes. This rhapsody is a real showpiece and the execution of the work
was exquisite. Shimada wringing every last sentiment out of the string section while Smolina
alternately marched and gambled up and down the keys right up until the humorous and unexpected
ending. The audience gave Smolina and the orchestra one of the most extended standing ovations ever
during an ECSO concert”.
GRAND RESULT ON STEINWAY”, New Jersey Star- Ledger, Peter Wynne
Svetlana Smolina and Maxim dazzled all with the performances “Dumka”, Seasons”, Piano Sonata in G
Major and Eugene Onegin for two pianos (Tchaikovsky). With two powerhouse players and two Grand
Steinways on stage the sound could be overwhelming, but it did provide more than a hint of
power…Watching the two perform was a delight… Nearly 35 minutes in performance, the G Major sonata
requires a performer with power to spare. Smolina was up to the challenge, pouring massive waves of
sound over her listeners in the works many dramatic moments. And yet she was
equally capable of matching the composer’s more intimate thoughts.”
Read more reviews here: Svetlana Reviews 2024