Whenever I discover something beautiful that is guaranteed to create joy, I talk about it enthusiastically and consistently to anyone who will listen. Friends have heard me rave about the Intermezzo Chamber Music Series, so my friend Ruth decided to join me for Concert II last Monday to hear for herself what I had described so frequently. The musicians definitely delivered as they performed Brahms’s String Quintet No. 2 in G Major, Op. 111 and Tchaikovsky’s String Sextet in D Minor “Souvenir de Florence,” Op. 70. Both pieces impressed us greatly!! For me, Tchaikovsky’s “Souvenir de Florence” was the standout of the evening as it captured my attention from the first note and kept me intrigued through the dramatic finale. I found it to be a breathtaking piece performed with brilliant artistry.
Violinists William Hagen and Laura Ha, violists Yuan Qi and Joel Gibbs, and cellists Lauren Posey and Pegsoon Whang brought Tchaikovsky’s “Souvenir de Florence” to life. In particular, William Hagen, Yuan Qi, and Lauren Posey excelled in playing the principal violin, viola, and cello parts. Each of their instruments had a remarkable mellow timbre that blended smoothly with the rest of the ensemble. Of particular note, William Hagen performed on the 1732 “Arkwright Lady Rebecca Sylvan” Stradivarius with a bow by Tourte, both on loan from the Rachel Barton Pine Foundation. The rich sound of this instrument surpassed anything I have heard before, and I heard each note clearly. The combination of excellent playing, high quality instruments, and a passionate piece of music resulted in a captivating performance.
Tchaikovsky’s “Souvenir de Florence” includes four movements that are full of nuanced energy and intensity, requiring that the musicians have a versatile skill set.
- I. Allegro con spirito: The first movement commands your attention with an energetic opening chord. It keeps your attention with precise, fast-moving notes balanced by more legato, sweet melodies. Accented notes punctuate the melody throughout.
- II. Adagio cantabile e con moto: The second movement contrasts with the first in that it begins with a more somber, contemplative note, thoughtfully played. This evolves into a sweet and then richly passionate melody.
- III. Allegretto moderato: The third movement teases the listener with a playful melody contrasted with more forceful passages that demand the musicians’ full energy.
- IV. Allegro con brio e vivace: The fourth movement opens with a melody that is reminiscent of folk dances and relishing the delights of a beautiful summer day. Similar to the previous movements, the vivacious folk melody develops into sections that are powerful, rich, and resonant. It culminates in a highly energetic finale.
I thoroughly enjoyed the different textures each movement of this piece offered, and the musicians performed them superbly. This was one of my favorite Intermezzo Chamber Concerts.
The Intermezzo Chamber Concert Series continues with Concert III on Monday, July 17, 2023 at 7:30 p.m at Westminster College. You can find more information and purchase tickets here.
The Good Life 
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