Continuing with the criticism theme… The previously mentioned review of the SSO's Brahms 5th Symphony concert included a wonderfully striking image:
“The conductor Paul Daniel, the chief conductor-elect of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, energised and disciplined the orchestra, like a tall and amiable leader on a hike where no bush, tree or distant slope escapes being pointed out.”
It was a reminder that music criticism – concert reviewing specifically – isn't simply about judging something, telling us whether it was "good" or "bad". It's also about conveying to the reader who couldn't be there what that particular concert was like, it's about finding the apt metaphor or analogy that, without assigning praise or disapproval, suggests the character and distinctiveness of the performance.