This week’s lunchtime concert was delivered by brother and sister combination Joshua and Grace. A very talented pair.
The recital opened with Grace accompanying her brother as he played the beautiful ‘Chanson de Matin’ by Elgar. Joshua’s violin soared above the piano with a lovely sense of phrasing and musical line. The sense of ease and confidence in both performers was lovely to see. Mr Cason Kang took over the role of accompanist as Joshua delved into the complexities of Shostakovich’s Albumstücke. These short violin and piano pieces are absolute gems, full of wit and charm and Joshua captured the style quite beautifully. They played a selection of movements with the spirited ‘Kleiner Marsch’ and the nostalgic ‘Leierkasten’ being particular favourites.
Following the Shostakovich, Grace came back on stage to accompany her brother as he played a beautiful arrangement of Saint-Saens’ ‘Le Cygne’ (The Swan) from the iconic Carnival of the Animals. This is, of course, one of the most famous cello solos in the classical music repertoire, but this arrangement with the violin taking the solo certainly did not disappoint. Joshua’s sense of phrasing and musical line once more came to the fore and this was a performance of great poise and beauty.
The concert concluded with Mozart’s ‘Rondo in G Major’, a delightful showcase of virtuosity and musical rapport. Joshua’s fingers seemed to dance across the strings as his sister’s lively accompaniment provided the perfect backdrop for him, bringing the recital to a wonderful and triumphant close.
Bravo to both Joshua and Grace for an outstanding performance.
The recording from today’s concert is available online here.
Next week’s concert will be given by Elsa Marsh, who will be performing violin music by Vivaldi and Franck.
