Cristian Măcelaru receives critical acclaim for performances with the Orchestre National de France

Cristian Măcelaru returned to the Orchestre National de France in his role as Music Director, performing the works of Brahms and Strauss II. (Photo Credit: Orchestre National de France)

Last week, Cristian Măcelaru led the Orchestre National de France in his role as Music Director, featuring soprano Fatma Said, in two consecutive performances presenting the works of Johannes Brahms and Johann Strauss II.

Măcelaru and the Orchestre National de France have received critical acclaim since the performances.

Clara Leonardi of BachTrack commended: “If the proximity of the two artists does not immediately appear in the writing of their works, they are nevertheless brought together by the work of the conductor, who sculpts the orchestral textures to obtain a unique and round sound…Cristian Măcelaru offers an intimate reading of the work, centered on its autumnal hues.”

Andika Nyantho of Andika Blog praised: “This repertoire is ultimately from a region close to his home, and it is perhaps for this reason that he approaches it with such ease. The first dance is thus very colorful, dancing, rhythmically rigorous while keeping an elegant and cozy side thanks to the orchestration of Brahms.” 

Didier van Moere of ConcertoNet applauded: “The conductor shows his mastery of the orchestra, visibly conquered since his arrival, and of the work. The Allegro non troppois distinguished by a breadth and a sense of form, which is created gradually, as it will be created in the final Passacaglia, with naturally linked variations.”