Yesterday night’s concert was, I must say, a very big hit! The three larger-ensemble pieces (Ibert’s Trois pieces breve, Milhaud’s Suite: La cheminee du roi Rene, and Poulenc’s Sextet) were separated by gorgeous solo performances, showcasing each of the individual artists.
Brad’s phenomenal rendition of Debussy’s Premiere Rhapsody left nothing to be desired. Wendy’s charismatic introduction to Busser’s Cantilene et Rondo (some of which was spoken in French!) set up her spectacular performance perfectly. Paul’s performance of Saint-Saens’ Romance melted audience members right in their seats with many admiring ‘ooohs’ and ‘ahhs.’ Sarah’s rendition of Ravel’s Piece en forme de Habanera was best described as gorgeously poisonous. And, finally, Christopher’s performance of Ibert’s Piece for Solo Flute was simply flawless; and by this point in the program, our audience was so enthusiastically wound up that their applause was making it difficult for the artists to leave the stage!
Of course, I would be amiss to fail to mention Adam’s incredible role as collaborative pianist through all of this. It’s a lot of notes for one pianist to handle! (Which happens to be why he declined to play a solo piece when we asked him — he’s already being taxed enough! Sorry, Adam!)
To have each of these artists’ incredible energy collectively join together for their ensemble pieces was what really put the feather in the cap of this concert. The Poulenc Sextet was an absolute powerhouse, and so rightfully deserved the mad, standing ovation from our audience!
Sarah Southard happily and deservingly receives applause from our audience.
Adam Clark talks to our audience about Poulenc's Sextet.
Poulenc's Sextet in mid-performance. I'm amazed I was even able to get this shot - I was shaking from excitement!
Thunderous standing applause for our finale!
Our audience members were truly enthralled last night.
