Spring 2023 Guitar Ensemble II
Our second Ensemble concert took place on Saturday. Five members of the studio performed, each in a different mixed chamber music duo. We featured two singers, a violist, a flutist and a cellist, making for a nicely varied program. The concert opened with a piece by Bach contemporary, Ernst Gottlieb Baron, as performed by violist Kamilah Brown, with Damian Goggans on the guitar. (Full program at the end of the post). Their performance was spirited and very well-prepared.
Damian Goggans with Kamilah Brown on stage in Kulas Hall.
Next up was a set of four Schubert lieder, presented by soprano Ava Paul and guitarist Grigor Ylli. Ava sings absolutely beautifully, delivering Schubert’s indelible melodies with sincerity and intensity, all while perfectly modulating her gorgeous voice. Grigor handled his accompaniments with vigor and clarity, ably supporting her and rendering the piano originals all but forgotten.
Grigor Ylli with Ava Paul on stage.
Following the Schubert was a short Bach chorale prelude, Ich ruf zu dir, BWV 639, as arranged for guitar and cello by the guitarist, Suvan Agarwal. The cellist was Ben Rodriguez. They played the piece serenely and with beautiful contrapuntal clarity.
Suvan Agarwal and Ben Rodriguez on stage in Kulas Hall.
Next up was another voice and guitar combination. Rio Manzanares, who presented three Brazilian songs in our previous Ensemble concert, played the remaining two songs from the set for this one, with a different singer: this time, soprano Cassie Davies. Cassie sings beautifully; she performed the songs with just the sassy exuberance they needed, bringing the audience to a loud and robust response. Rio played the irresistible Brazilian rhythms on his guitar with gusto. They made a terrific duo.
Rio Manzanares and Cassie Davies perform in Kulas Hall.
Our program concluded with a perennial favorite, the Grand Duo Concertante Op. 85 of Giuliani. Presented with style by flutist Jonah Ordower and guitarist Sara Baunoch, the audience responded loudly and enthusiastically.
Sara Baunoch and Jonah Ordower on stage.
Thank you, everyone for your performances! This was a terrific concert. A special thanks goes out to our non-guitarist partners, who participated for no personal gain aside from experience and collegiality. Many many thanks!!
