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Published May 6th, 2015
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San Francisco Opera Orchestra Musicians Star in 'Whirlwind'
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| By Jennifer Wake |
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| The Gold Coast Chamber Players having fun. Photo provided |
The woodwinds will take center stage with works by Robert Schumann, Johann Nepomuk Hummel and a little-known German composer, August Klughardt, during the Gold Coast Chamber Players' 2014-15 season finale, "Whirlwind," at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 17 at the Lafayette Library Community Hall. Klughardt's Schilflieder (Reed Songs) was written in the romantic spirit of Franz Liszt, while Hummel's Septet bridges the Classical and Romantic eras. Robert Schumann's Adagio and Allegro for Horn and Piano will feature hornist Kevin Rivard and pianist Yana Reznik. A pre-concert talk at 2:30 p.m. will start the afternoon.
"Woodwinds, in this case, flute, oboe and French horn add tremendous variety of color and dynamic range to our program," said GCCP Artistic Director and Violist Pamela Freund-Striplen. "So much of the chamber music repertoire centers on strings and piano but this program offers a fantastic range of tone color. Each instrument has its own inherent character. The oboe, with its plaintiff expressive quality is often used for the most emotional moments in a film. Oboist Mingjia Liu is recognized for his charismatic performing skill and 'singing ability' on the instrument - in fact, his last appearance with GCCP was so well received, we had our largest audience to date - selling out of even standing room! The French horn is a brass instrument and is well suited to epic moments. Kevin is a sensitive musician, and while he could blow the walls down, he isn't likely to! The flute is a beautiful balance for the oboe and horn and adds a lightness and sprightliness to overall color."
Whirlwind features several prominent San Francisco Opera Orchestra members, including Flutist and Piccoloist Stephanie McNab, Principal Oboe Mingjia Liu, and Principal Horn, Rivard. Supporting players include Freund-Striplen, Jennifer Culp, cello (formerly of the Kronos Quartet), Mark Wallace, bass, and Yana Reznik, piano. These musicians are part of the core ensemble and offer a strong musical connection.
"One of the signature aspects of a Gold Coast is the vibrant collaboration between the musicians. By carefully matching performers and programs this musical chemistry is always apparent. 'Whirlwind' adds another layer of connectivity by showcasing musicians from SF Opera orchestra who play together regularly and under the many challenging circumstances they encounter throughout the opera season," said Freund-Striplen. "Some of the musicians have been playing together for over 25 years, and others for only a few. What is always thrilling for the audience is to see and hear great performers coming together in a slightly new configuration - great things always happen on stage, after all it is live music and being a part of this electric experience is what keeps people coming back."
The Gold Coast Chamber Players are known for their engaging and vibrant performances. Seating is limited, so reserve early to avoid disappointment. Ticket price includes complimentary champagne, the pre-concert talk and a reception with the musicians following the performance. Tickets are available at www.gcplayers.org and by phone at (925) 283-3728. J. Wake
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA