Programme (announced 12th January)
Beethoven: Seven Variations on the theme "Bei Mannern, welche Liebe fuhlen" (from Mozart's Die Zauberflote)
Debussy: Sonate (2 movements)
Bridge: Four pieces (Berceuse, Serenade, Elegie, Cradle Song)
INTERVAL
Martinu: Variations on a Slovakian Theme
Brahms: Sonata in F op.99 (4 movements)
All pictures taken by Roger Evans
The recital Anna Menzies (cello) and Nicholas Oliver (piano) gave at the Middlewich and District Concerts Society concert was extraordinary, producing a tremendous range of styles and virtuosity.
The concert began with Beethoven in playful mode, toying with a popular duet from the "Magic Flute". The mood then changed completely. Debussy's Sonate was austere and at times chilling, perhaps reflecting its origins during the Great War, but retaining his unique sound world. The Four Pieces by Frank Bridge (arranged by Julian Lloyd-Webber) provided an admirable antidote, providing relief, warmth and a sense of fun.
After the interval we learnt of Martinu's somewhat wayward nature, reflected in the diversity of his Variations on a Slovakian Theme. The concert ended with the Sonata in F (Opus 99) by Brahms. This is one of the principal works in the cello / piano repertoire and received a powerful performance.
Anna and Nicholas introduced each piece in a clear and informative manner, greatly adding to the enjoyment of the recital. Once again we felt privileged to have been able to hear music of this calibre played in the heart of Cheshire.
For more information about Anna Menzies visit her own web-site (in a new window), by clicking HERE