Intermezzo Chamber Music Series: Concert I

I discovered the Intermezzo Chamber Music Series during the summer of 2018. I was impressed by the music selections and the quality of performance, so I have made a conscious effort to attend their concerts frequently. Each concert has been a transcendent experience that has introduced me to beautiful music, expertly played. I always leave feeling uplifted and transformed.

The 2023 season began Monday evening in the Vieve Gore Concert Hall at Westminster College. Violinist Laura Ha and cellist Andrew Larson joined pianist Vedrana Subotic, also the Artistic Director of Intermezzo, for a program that included Beethoven’s Sonata No. 9 in E Major Op. 14 No. 1, Beethoven’s Piano Trio No.1 in E-flat Major, Op. 1 No. 1, and Brahms’s Piano Trio No.3 in C Minor Op. 101. All three pieces were new to me. All three contained a beautiful mix of fast, energetic passages that demanded precision and accuracy, passages that were lighter and more lyrical, and passages that were intense and passionate. All three musicians delivered beautiful performances.

My favorite piece of the evening was Brahms Piano Trio in C Minor. Vedrana Subotic explained before the performance that even though this is a chamber piece with only three instruments, it is more symphonic in scope, demanding that each musician embody and project the resonance of a full orchestral section. It challenges each musician to play at his or her full capacity, creating the greatest intensity his or her instrument will allow. The piece contains four movements, with the first and fourth being fast-past allegros, and the second and third being more lyrical and contemplative.

• I. Allegro – This movement begins with a series of dramatic chords followed by faster-moving, flowing sections — all of which are played forcefully and passionately, digging into the strings. I loved this movement for its intensity and energy.
• II. Presto non assai – The second movement is lighter and flirtatious with a whimsical melody that repeats throughout. The sound resembles a playful pursuit of “cat and mouse” or children playing chase. It provides a fun contrast to the first movement’s intensity.
• III. Andante grazioso – This movement falls into the category of being an “intermezzo.” It is gentle, lyrical, and meditative, allowing the listener to daydream and wander in his or her own thoughts. I loved that it gave the listener room to breathe.
• IV Allegro molto – The final movement includes fast-moving melodies, dramatic chords, and passionate passages. It was an energetic end that complemented the intensity of the first movement.

The Intermezzo Chamber Concert Series feels like a hidden gem among the classical music offerings in Salt Lake City. I encourage classical music lovers, and those who might be curious about classical music, to discover it and experience first-hand how it enriches your summer experience. Concert II will take place on Monday, July 10, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at Westminster College. You can find more information and purchase tickets here.