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Harmony performed the lengthy «Introduction & Rondo Capriccioso» of Camille Saint-Saëns wherein she showcased her dynamic range, masterfully alternating between piano and forte musical passages. This piece is a demanding one, especially when it playfully invites the pianist to play the violin's part while the violin imitates lengthy (and difficult) arpeggios. If one were judging the difficulty based solely on the results, one might have concluded that there was little to these passages: such was the dexterity of the deterministically named Harmony..
Of Ceirion’s contribution, the «Capriccio for tuba & piano» stood out to me. This Rodney Newton capriccio, with its multiple versions, is quite popular for good reason: its bold stabs of optimism are carefully balanced by longing exhales, all of which gives this piece its characteristic, complex narrative..
Speaking of complex narratives, what of that «Chanson de noisettes» by Gabriel Dupont? That is a great deal of narrative for such a short song, and it was beautifully portrayed by soprano Evelyn, who also offered a heartfelt rendition of «O del mio dolce ardor» from Christoph Willibald Gluck's «Paride ed Elena»..
On a personal note, I shall be celebrating what St George's Day is truly about tomorrow at The Windmill, from around midday. All are welcome to bask in the glory of the georgeness of all things George. If you are a George, Jordi, Jürgen, Jyrki, or Jorge, or a visitor from Georgia (state or country), or a George by last name in any of its international iterations, there will be a pint from me to you there. Guest speakers: Andrew George and Filip Jörgensen. There will be a memorial for Jürgen Habermas, with music by George Michael. .
NB: Speakers have not been notified, but I am holding out hope.