Opening the concert, Crowl’s work was performed with energy and enthusiasm. Jairo Wilkens, from the Symphony Orchestra Campinas-Sao Paulo, displayed a wonderful command of the contemporary techniques required. This work was extremely challenging both technically and endurance-wise. Bravo to both performers for sharing it with us.
Next up was clarinetist Alice Wang with soprano Misook Yun. They performed James Sclater’s Four Songs on Texts by Emily Dickinson. They blended wonderfully and both the voice and clarinet had a pleasant warmth. They were then joined by pianist Cicilia Yuhda for Schubert’s Shepherd on the Rock, a cornerstone of the repertoire. This was a beautiful performance, sensitive and emotional.
The recital concluded with two pieces performed by Louisiana native and professor from Nicholls State, Dr. Michael Bartnik. First up, Rosita Iglesias by Carlos Guastavino performed alongside Luciana Soares (Steinway Artist, Nicholls State University). Bartnik had a very expressive color palate and it suited the work. He then performed Liduino Pitombeira’s Suite for Clarinet (which was commissioned by Patty Martin). This work is in three movements for solo clarinet. The first and third (“Maracatu “and “Frevo”) are Brazilian dances used for carnaval. The second, “Acalanto,” is a lovely lullaby. Bartnik’s sensitivity and beautiful colors and tones were shown off here most of all. This was a lovely work and a perfect ending to a wonderful recital on this beautiful day in Baton Rouge!
–Notes by Dr. Dawn Marie Lindblade
Dr. Lindblade is the Assistant Professor of Clarinet at the University of Central Oklahoma and is a Clinician at Clarinet Pro Workshops, Austin Texas.
ClarinetFest Blog 