ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON, N.Y. — The Bard Music Festival reached a breathtaking climax on August 18 with Hector Berlioz’s opera, “La Damnation de Faust,” under the baton of the renowned conductor Leon Botstein. The performance took place at the Sosnoff Theater, Fisher Center, Bard College, bringing together an extraordinary ensemble of vocalists and musicians.

Botstein, who is both the president of Bard College and the music director of the American Symphony Orchestra, led the piece with his characteristic precision and passion. His extensive knowledge of Berlioz’s work was evident in every nuanced moment of the performance. Botstein’s ability to extract the emotional depths of the score while maintaining its structural clarity was nothing short of masterful.

The lead role of Faust was sung by tenor Joshua Blue, whose vocal prowess captivated the audience. Blue’s interpretation of the tormented character was deeply moving, his voice imbued with both power and subtlety. Mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke, who portrayed Marguerite, delivered a performance rich in emotion and vocal dexterity, perfectly complementing Blue’s Faust.

Botstein’s conducting was particularly noteworthy in the way he balanced the vocalists with the orchestra. The American Symphony Orchestra, under his direction, executed Berlioz’s demanding score with remarkable finesse. The choral sections, performed by the Bard Festival Chorale, added a layer of grandeur and complexity to the overall soundscape.

Bass-baritone Alfred Walker, who took on the role of Méphistophélès, was another standout of the evening. His commanding stage presence and resonant voice brought a palpable sense of menace to the character, making his scenes some of the most memorable of the night. Walker’s performance was elevated by Botstein’s keen attention to the dramatic pacing of the opera.

Throughout the performance, Botstein’s leadership was evident, particularly in the way he navigated the intricate orchestral passages and the dynamic shifts in Berlioz’s score. His collaboration with chorus director James Bagwell ensured that the vocal ensemble’s contributions were both cohesive and impactful.

In sum, Leon Botstein’s direction of “La Damnation de Faust” was a testament to his skill and dedication to the craft of conducting. His ability to bring out the best in both the orchestra and the vocalists made this a performance that will be remembered by all who attended.