by Daniel Hathaway
Eric Benjamin ended his brief tenure as music director of the Cleveland Women’s Orchestra with an engaging concert of mostly French music on Sunday afternoon, April 19 in Mandel Concert Hall at Severance Music Center.
The performance marked Benjamin’s second visit to the Severance podium in the company of one of America’s few remaining women’s ensembles. CWO has grown artistically during his two years at the helm, and he leaves the orchestra in good hands for his successor.
Sunday’s program began with a rarity, Camille Saint-Saëns’ Overture to La Princesse Jaune. Benjamin drew a lush sound from his players during the introduction, and the ensuing allegro made for an enjoyable opener, both vigorous and charming.