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On September 27, the third concert of the season wowed concertgoers with precision of one of the world’s finest chamber orchestras, the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields.

The Academy performed an all-Mozart program, consisting of two symphonies and two piano concerti. The orchestra was directed by Israeli-born pianist Inon Barnatan. This was the first time the Academy and Barnatan joined forces. They did not disappoint. The program for the night included  Symphony in D Major, K. 196/121, “La Finta Giardiniera,” followed by Piano Concerto No. 12 in A Major, K.414.

At intermission, patrons commented on the musicianship of the performers and how the members of the orchestra seemed to enjoy their music. Many guests said they were also impressed with the luxurious surrounds of the auditorium itself; one patron commenting, “There’s no other place I would rather be” than at the concerts. The second half continued with Piano Concerto No. 9 in E Flat Major, K.271, “Jeunehomme,” and finished with Symphony No. 29 in A Major, K. 201.

For many of the concertgoers and staff, it was the first time seeing a pianist who conducted at the same time. Some guests remarked that the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields had performed the best Mozart they had ever heard. Armstrong Auditorium operations manager Ryan Malone agreed, commenting, “The Academy was born to do Mozart.”