Bratislava: Everything’s Coming Up Roses

The Cleveland Orchestra’s return to Bratislava marked only the third visit in the ensemble’s history, making the occasion a particularly meaningful stop on its international journey. Following its debut in the Slovak capital in 1965, nearly six decades would pass before the Orchestra returned in 2024.

The performance took place in the intimate yet ornately decorated home of the Slovak Philharmonic. A sold-out audience filled Reduta Hall, creating an atmosphere of anticipation that carried through the performance. As the concert concluded, audience members broke into applause, clapping in unison to express their gratitude to the Cleveland Orchestra musicians.

The evening ended with a particularly charming moment. As the applause continued, two young women approached the stage, each carrying a bouquet of flowers — one intended for Music Director Franz Welser-Möst and the other for Concertmaster Joel Link. In an effort to keep the focus on the Orchestra, Welser-Möst accepted his bouquet with a grateful smile before playfully tossing it toward Cleveland Orchestra Violist Lembi Veskimets. Holding her viola and bow in one hand, she managed to deftly catch the flowers with the other.

The unexpected gesture brought smiles throughout the viola and cello sections, adding a touch of warmth and humor to the end a memorable performance.