Music of emotion and elegance will be heard at the next Wednesdays at Noon Advent Recital on Dec. 10 at Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Tryon. Jan Daugherty, violist, and Kymric Mahnke, pianist, will perform works for viola and piano and solo piano.

First on the Dec. 10 program is Estonian composer Arvo P‰rtís etherial work for viola and piano, Spiegel im Spiegel. Arvo P‰rt writes in a mystic minimalist style which he describes astintinnabuli— like the ringing of bells. Spiegel im Spiegel (translated, «mirrors in the mirror») is a characteristic and well-known example of this style, consisting of simple scales, triads, no changes of tempo, and rhythmic simplicity. In 2011, this piece was the focus of a half hour BBC radio program, Soul Music, which examined pieces of music ìwith a powerful emotional impact.î

Kymric Mahnke will then perform the Scherzo in E Major, Op. 54, by FrÈdÈric Chopin. Of all composers for the piano, Chopinís music is almost always immediately recognizable as his own. While he lived primarily in Paris during his adult years, Chopin and his music are indelibly associated with his native country, Poland.  Polish dances of various origins find their most elaborate and sophisticated forms in Chopinís music–the mazurkas, the waltzes, and the polonaise. The Scherzo in E Major, Op. 54, is characteristic of Chopinís elegant mature style.

The Viola Sonata, Op. 11 no. 4, by Paul Hindemith, was composed in 1919 when Hindemith was only 24.  But even at this young age, Hindemith demonstrates a mature and sophisticated
mastery of musical form. Hindemith was one of a distinguished line of composers with a special affection for the viola. These included Mozart, Beethoven, and Dvorak.  But Hindemith is more closely associated with this warm, but brooding, instrument than any of these others; for, of all these composers, Hindemith was the greatest virtuoso on the instrument.

The sonata consists of three movements, played without pause, and is characterized by cadenza-like flourishes. Elements of romanticism and impressionism are heard throughout, and strong Hungarian dance rhythms are prevalent.

These Advent recitals are at 12 p.m. and are 30 minutes in length. The public is invited to attend free of charge. Holy Cross Episcopal Church is located at 150 Melrose Avenue, Tryon. Performing on Dec. 17 will be Amy Brucksch, classical guitar; John Malloy, violin; and Lori Corda, vocalist.

 

-Article submitted 

by Susie Mahnke