Piano & Cello on a Summer Evening

Welcome to an evening of rich musical landscapes, where timeless classics intertwine with contemporary reflections and evocative folk traditions.

Robert Schumann – Adagio and Allegro, Op. 70

Composed in 1849, Schumann’s Adagio and Allegro was originally written for horn and piano, but its lyrical beauty and expressive range have made it a favorite among cellists. The Adagio opens with a tender, almost vocal quality, showcasing Schumann’s gift for crafting heartfelt melodies. This is followed by the Allegro, a spirited and buoyant finale that radiates warmth and optimism. The interplay between cello and piano is both conversational and collaborative, capturing the Romantic spirit of emotional sincerity and expressive depth. Schumann dedicated this work to his close friend, the horn virtuoso Heinrich Stiehl, but its universal charm speaks to a broader audience, transcending the instrument for which it was first conceived.

Chi-Lien Hung – Memories (solo piano)

In Memories, Taiwanese composer Chi-Lien Hung crafts an introspective soundscape that lingers with a sense of nostalgia and quiet reflection. The piece invites the listener into a delicate world of fleeting thoughts and distant recollections, where the piano becomes a vessel for evoking emotions that hover just at the edge of consciousness. Hung’s music balances simplicity and complexity, allowing space for both the performer and the audience to inhabit the moments between notes. This meditative work contrasts beautifully with the more overtly dramatic pieces in the program, offering a moment of stillness and introspection.

Georgian Miniature Pieces

These Georgian Miniature Pieces offer a window into the rich cultural heritage of Georgia, blending traditional melodies with contemporary sensibilities. The music evokes the spirit of Georgian folk traditions, characterized by intricate harmonies, rhythmic vitality, and a deep connection to the land and its stories. Each miniature, though brief, captures a vivid scene or emotion, much like a series of snapshots that together form a larger, cohesive narrative. Whether inspired by ancient songs, dances, or natural imagery, these pieces resonate with a sense of place and identity, providing a unique counterpoint to the broader European canon featured in tonight’s program.

Intermission

Johannes Brahms – Cello Sonata in E minor, Op. 38

Brahms’ Cello Sonata in E minor is a cornerstone of the cello repertoire, notable for its depth, architectural clarity, and emotional resonance. Written between 1862 and 1865, the sonata reflects Brahms’ admiration for Baroque forms, particularly the influence of J.S. Bach, whose contrapuntal techniques can be heard throughout the work. The first movement unfolds with a brooding, melancholic theme, where the cello sings with a dark, velvety tone, while the piano provides a rich, supportive foundation. The second movement, a minuet-like Allegretto quasi Menuetto, offers a lyrical respite with its gentle, dance-like grace. The sonata concludes with a powerful Allegro, where Brahms’ mastery of fugal writing brings the piece to an intense and satisfying close. This sonata is not just a dialogue between cello and piano—it’s a partnership, where both instruments share in the emotional weight and complexity of the music.