Saxophone & Clarinet Lessons 503.888.5796
April 4, 2009
The theme of connecting to the composers and the music continued with the Spring recital, Solo Commonalities. Listening to the videos below, you will hear courage, passion, mournfullness, and excitement. The pieces were performed from oldest to most contemporary; from the 4-part Bach chorale to Marilyn Shrude’s Sonata.
Opening 4-part Chorale by J. S. Bach, performed by all students together.
We begin each recital with a group performance as an ice-breaker of sorts, a chance to confront one’s stage fright in a safe, group atmosphere.
Ode to Music by Chopin, performed by Peter
Peter chose Chopin because “we both have Polish and French roots.”
El Choclo by Angel Villoldo, performed by Justina
Justina chose this piece because “it is Latin and I am Latina!”
Arabesque by Debussy, performed by Jacob
Jacob learned that he and Debussy “share the same star sign,” Virgo.
Funeral March of the Marionettes by Charles Gounod, performed by Mike
Mike chose this “music from my formative years.” You may recognize this music from the 1950s television program, Alfred Hitchcock Presents.
Sonatine, movement II by Darius Milhaud, performed by Katy
Katy delved into more contemporary music for the Spring recital. The second movement is at times haunting and then almost playful.
Elegie by Joseph‐Edouard Barat, performed by Jacy
It was a challenge finding information about Barat, but Jacy learned that Barat “was born in and studied music in Paris, and that is one of my favorite cities.”
Sportive Sonata, III: Race by Tcherepnin, performed by Emily
Emily found some interesting commonalities with Alexander Tcherepnin. Both she and he have brothers who are musicians (Emily’s brother played the Chopin in today’s recital.) Tcherepnin got his US citizenship before he died, and “I have mine.” Emily plays many sports and is very active in her school’s Lacrosse team. This influenced her choice of the Sportive Sonata.
Sonata by Marilyn Shrude, excerpt performed by Kate
Kate learned this sonata is based on the myth of Paganini selling his soul to the devil to be able to be the best violinist ever. Shrude’s work is subtitled “Renewing The Myth.” Kate says she “only sold part of my soul to the devil!”
Sportive Sonata, I: Boxing by Tcherepnin, performed by Meg Grace
I was inspired by Emily’s study of the Tcherepnin to learn the first movement. And was surprised to find that I had a fair amount in common with him. He was born Jan. 21, 1899. My maternal grandfather was born Jan. 24, 1899. His father was a teacher, like mine. And his mother was a singer. My mother is a whistler!