Lorin Maazel: “The Orquestra de la Comunitat Valenciana can be on par with the best in the world”

05.09.2006

The music director of the Palau de les Arts' resident orchestra, Lorin Maazel, declared today at a press conference, referring to the new musical ensemble, that "it is wonderful" and that "it will be able to compete with the best orchestras in the world." Thus, in the Maestro's words, "five days ago I began rehearsing with an orchestra of such strength and brilliance that even I could hardly believe it."
The American conductor made these statements after conducting the first rehearsals with the new orchestra of the Palau de les Arts, whose official name is Orquestra de la Comunitat Valenciana.

Regarding the acoustics of the coliseum, Maazel described them as excellent, both in the pit and on stage. For the American composer and violinist, “there is no such thing as poor acoustics,” only poor conductors. Thus, “it is the conductor’s job to adapt to the acoustics by placing the different instrumental groups where they can achieve the best sound.”

According to him, the first rehearsals as conductor of the Orquestra de la Comunitat Valenciana have been one of the “most intense and satisfying” experiences of his life. Maazel also expressed his satisfaction with the quality of the musicians he selected in the auditions held in Valencia, New York, Helsinki, London, and Milan. “If it hadn't worked out, I would have felt mortified and ashamed for not having risen to this challenge,” the conductor noted, adding that this is the first time he has faced the challenge of creating an orchestra.

During rehearsals, the musical director has exposed the ensemble to the broadest possible repertoire, encompassing both symphonic and operatic works. The first week of work included a selection of pieces by Mozart, Puccini, Strauss, Bizet, Verdi, and Wagner.

On the other hand, Maazel declared himself “very pleased” that the Orchestra has so many Valencian musicians, a “rare” occurrence. However, he justified the presence of young people from all over the world by citing the need to have “whoever can do the job best, regardless of their origin.” In that regard, he added that “whatever is done in this architectural landmark must be worthy of the building.”

The director of the Orquestra de la Comunitat Valenciana also pledged to contribute his experience and train young musicians in schools, following the example of other cities like New York. Furthermore, the maestro announced his intention to tour Spain with the orchestra, in addition to the tour already planned for the Valencian Community.

The musical director concluded by saying that he is leaving with three things in mind: “the beauty of this architectural marvel in which we have the pleasure of working; the enthusiasm of the musicians, willing to give their all; and the conviction that together we will overcome the unexpected challenges or obstacles that always arise at the start of new projects, which need time to get up to speed.”