Eccellente Marzemino was the title of this innovative concert at St. Michael's Church, part of the Blewbury Festival, given by violinist Edmund Jones and pianist Mami Shikimori. Marzemino, virtually unknown in the UK, was the favourite wine of the Mozart family and was served in the interval after three of Mozart's sonatas for piano and violin, K7, K301,and K454. Between sonatas, Mozart family letters were read by local thespian Peter Saunders.
It was a delightful idea for a concert and the performers rose to the occasion, playing with great sensitivity and artistry. The second half started with Mami Shikimori playing the virtuoso piano solo arrangement by Ravel of his La Valse for orchestra. A slight figure with the appearance of a supermodel, she gave a rousing and full blooded rendition which brought the house down.
This was followed by Massenet's Meditation Thais for violin and piano, when Edmund Jones drew a beautiful full tone from his violin. The programme finished with Grieg's Sonata No 3 in C minor for violin and piano, the performers attcking this passionate work with fire, brilliance, and great sensitivity. In all a memorable evening.
It was a delightful idea for a concert and the performers rose to the occasion, playing with great sensitivity and artistry. The second half started with Mami Shikimori playing the virtuoso piano solo arrangement by Ravel of his La Valse for orchestra. A slight figure with the appearance of a supermodel, she gave a rousing and full blooded rendition which brought the house down.
This was followed by Massenet's Meditation Thais for violin and piano, when Edmund Jones drew a beautiful full tone from his violin. The programme finished with Grieg's Sonata No 3 in C minor for violin and piano, the performers attcking this passionate work with fire, brilliance, and great sensitivity. In all a memorable evening.