If the names Bernhard Krol, Aleksandr Glazunov, Timothy Jackson or Alec Wilder didn't ring a bell it's perhaps because none of their compositions had been played at Christ Church in the last year— of Reinhold Glière, the other musician that was played today, we last heard from in April 2024, when Barry Lo played him in his french horn, in what ended up being one of that years' most lauded concerts.
Today, with the help of accom-pianist Xia Liu, Sam Nutt showcased the horn's range both in tones and intensities. «Rêverie» (Op. 24) of Russian Glazunov was, I believe, the highlight of the afternoon, for through its soft & contemplative melodies and conversatory nature both piano and french horn met in terms where they showcased what is best in each other.
Though I'd venture a guess and say that for jazz enthusiasts —of whom Southport has no shortage— preferred «Sonata N.º 3 for horn & piano» by the American arranger Alec Wilder; its third part (the jazziest of them all), after all, snatched an impromptu applause from the audience.
I'm already looking forward to yet another member of the «Manchester Reed Trio» coming back to Christ Church: Bethan Roberts visited last month, and next week Rachel Fillhart will again be on-stage here; hopefully the remaining member of the «Manchester Reed Trio» is invited back soon, if intra-group conflicts are to be avoided.
Original-date: February 5