First of all, it took me a long time to do this review! We had such a busy week before Christopher's recital and a hectic day on the day itself. So, sure enough as soon as it was over I caught a bad cold, which I couldn't get rid of for more than a week! During this time, however, we received many positive comments about Christopher and his performance, which made it clear that the recital was a great success.
Many members loved his program with Beethoven, Liszt and Ravel – very generous, long and full of technically demanding pieces. I had looked forward to it, and it was indeed wonderful – as soon as Christopher began playing, I was in a different world. I left all the busy thoughts and worries, and just indulged in this superb music.
Despite the cold weather, Breinton was the hottest place in Woking on Sunday! The duo's performance of 20th century compositions by Kodaly, Bartok and Ravel exploded as a full blast.
I really feel I don't have many comments about a performance that was executed to such perfection and everyone's satisfaction. Matthew and Guy's collaboration of Kodaly and Ravel was just astonishing. Up front, Matthew said the Kodaly Duo for Violin and Cello was not an easy piece to listen to. Sure, it was rather complicated and not straight forward with some unpleasant sounding notes, and certainly not one I would choose to listen to when sitting comfortably with my morning cup of coffee!
We had another absolutely fantastic evening at Breinton on Saturday. Pianist Emmanuel Despax gave a dazzling recital to a full house of members. His programme was dense and intense with two Beethoven Sonatas, Liszt's Funeralilles from Harmonies Poetiques, and Bach-Busoni Chaconne. Ever since I heard him for the first time about a year ago, I have had my eye on this talented pianist. As we have had a number of wonderful musicians at Breinton, our expectations are high, but Emmanuel's performance certainly did not disappoint us.
Just amazing! How else can I describe So-Ock's performance at Breinton this Saturday? A record 55 members attended this recital, and every single one of us were transfixed by her playing throughout the whole performance. The programme was very demanding – Bach's Chaconne, Bartók's Sonata for solo violin, followed by Ysaÿe's Sonatas No. 2, 3 and 4. So-Ock has been one of the musicians I have desperately wanted to invite to Breinton since I went to her recital back in December 2009 at Wigmore Hall.
What a fabulous duo they were – I must say those who could not make this recital missed a lot. Huw and Tim brought us such a delightful evening of enjoyable music and informative talks. I have received many enthusiastic comments from the attendees, thank you!
A lot of people wondered what the trumpet sound level would be like. Generally speaking, when we think of this instrument, we tend to think that it produces ear-piercing, loud and metallic sounds and is most associate it with marching band music. What a misconception! Huw's playing was nothing like that; it was highly musical, lyrical, expressive and gentle.
Our last concert for 2010 – 2011 took place on Saturday 14 May. Those who attended the concert would definitely agree with me when I say that it was a splendid evening and a perfect finish to our season.
Our house was completely packed for this event; every single chair was taken. I was pleased that so many people wanted to come and listen to Colin and Krzysztof and they certainly did not disappoint us.
The theme of the evening was Beethoven who has been a popular composer at Breinton.Â