The great English cellist returns to Sydney to perform with passion and showmanship.

Sydney Opera House, October 27

Over the years, Steven Isserlis has established himself as one of the world’s pre-eminent cellists, his thoughtful interpretations of diverse repertoire accompanied by a slew of critically lauded recordings.

Taking a seat in the Opera House concert hall, it was with an air of excitement that I awaited the cellist’s arrival onstage. Isserlis, finally making his entrance, was greeted with a round of generous applause to join a larger-than-usual ACO including additional strings, winds, brass and percussion.

Led by Artistic Director Richard Tognetti, the ensemble launched into the first piece on the program: Dvořák’s mighty B Minor Cello Concerto, negotiating the hills and valleys of its opening in fine form. As Isserlis sat, smiling buoyantly, he seemed overjoyed with the pleasure of performing what he has described as one of his all-time favourite works.

Crashing down upon his entrance after the three-minute orchestral introduction, Isserlis’s transfixing musical presence was characterised by closed eyes, head flung upwards towards the ceiling and mop of springy locks shaking in emphatic passion. But despite his powerful body language, his playing seemed at times overshadowed by the increased size...