Georgia Musicale Group
501(c)3 non-profit organization

Fan Facts of the Carnegie Hall Concerts!

Eight members participated in our virtual musicale on October 22. Utako played Chopin’s Etude Op. 25 No. 1, the Aeolian harp; Natale played Scriabin’s Impromptu No. 2; and, Sabine played the Fantasia in C minor by Mozart. All performances were top notch.Sam then presented his updated project “How Do You Get to Carnegie Hall?Practice! and Research”. This is a fascinating research project utilizing information from the Carnegie Hall database, a public resource – full of fun facts that you can use to impress your friends and others!

t makes it interesting? Write a catchy description to grab your audience's attention...

(Submitted by Kimber Kwiatkowski)

Fourteen members and a guest, ranging from Texas, Oregon, and Minnesota to Georgia, gathered on Zoom on October 8, 2020 for our weekly musicale. The performers were: Michael Brounoff playing the first movement of Schubert’s Sonata in A minor, D. 784; Natale Farrell playing Kapustin’s Sonatina Op. 100; Utako Tanigawa playing Scarlatti’s Sonata K. 27/L. 449; and Shoko Tanaka playing the Brahms Intermezzo in A Major, Op. 118 No. 2. All of the performances were very convincing. The highlight of the musicale was Board Member Shoko Tanaka’s presentation about her life and music. Please enjoy it at https://youtu.be/gvvlm2DsCdg.

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(Submitted by Kimber Kwiatkowski)

The musicale on October 2, 2020 proved to be entertaining and enlightening. Eighteen

members, from the continental US to Japan, participated. New member Judy Darst

played Chopin’s Harp Etude and Schumann’s Romance in F#; new member Michael

Brounoff played the second movement of Schubert’s Sonata in A Major, D. 664; and

Utako Tanigawa played Mendelssohn’s Rondo Capriccioso Op. 14. All performances

were polished and excellent. As a special treat, Ruth Purcell sang and played her

mountain dulcimer that she made! She performed Apple Picker’s Reel by Larry Hanks

(older brother of Tom).

The new members then discussed their varied and interesting backgrounds.

J. MICHAEL BROUNOFF

I am a retired attorney and judge living in Plano, Texas.  I took piano lessons from age 6

through high school.  In law school I directed the music for the satirical review, Assault

and Flattery.  While a practicing attorney I directed the music for local productions of

Broadway musicals.  I resumed formal piano study at age 53 with Dr. Tamas Ungar of

Texas Christian University and Dr. Fred Karpoff of Syracuse University.  I am a three-

time semi-finalist at the Cliburn amateur piano competition and, through attending Piano

Texas, a five-time soloist with the Fort Worth Symphony.

Judy Darst

I was born in Minnesota (1936) and wanted to be a Veterinarian.  Women were

discouraged at that time, Plus I was lousy at Math so opted for Music.  I started lessons at

age 8 and didn’t like it at first.  When we moved to a small town outside of Minneapolis I

had a wonderful teacher, Louise Guhl.  I was at Carleton College Northfield Minn. for 2

years then transferred to the U. Of Colorado Boulder.  I married right out of College and

started teaching at home.. though my background was in Performance.  I taught for 42

years, got my National Certification, and did adjudication for National Guild of Piano

Teachers.  I had 2 boys, Seth the older now a Professor at Rockefeller in Manhattan (

Molecular Bio Physicist) became a fine Pianist.  I started teaching him at age 8..but he

needed to go somewhere else.  I started a Piano Group in Loveland Colorado, was a

performing member of Ladies Musical Club in Seattle and currently live in Bend

Oregon.  When we moved to Oregon in 2005 I became interested in the Amateur Piano

Competitions and have participated ..Wash. DC, WIPAC, Chicago, Boston, Colorado

Springs and San Diego.  I showed horses oven fences (Hunter Division) and taught

Country Line Dancing  but now am more interested in Piano than ever, more appropriate

for my age.  With the current situation I find bringing up things I have done in the past,

seeing them in a new light ..is rewarding.  I look forward to participating in this Group!

10/2 Musicale YouTube Link

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxrkjeVCTd4&t=99s

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(Submitted by Kimber Kwiatkowski)

Eighteen members of GMG, some from as far away as Oregon and Texas, gathered today for a most informative and enjoyable musicale. Judy Manganiello treated everyone to the hauntingly beautiful Theme from Schindler’s List by John Williams. Pam Martin then gave a special presentation on her personal journey with Chopin’s Ballade No. 4. She discussed her research of the piece, including a book, score, and recording, the specifics of which she posted on the blog. She also graciously agreed to post her roadmap, a detailed musical analysis which is invaluable in learning the piece. Her performance of the Ballade was beautiful, even though she prefaced it by saying that it is a work in progress.

Utako Tanigawa skillfully played Schubert’s Impromptu Op. 90 No. 3 and discussed some of the challenges of the piece including dynamics and difficult reaches due to hand size. She ended the musicale by reminding everyone of the Scarlatti celebration on October 30 in which everyone is encouraged to play one or two Scarlatti sonatas.

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(Submitted by Kimber Kwiatkowski)

The 9/17/20 Virtual Musicale was very well attended and enjoyed.

Performers were: Natale Farrell, Carol Wazlavek

Presenters were: Julie Coucheron, Anna Armstrong

Listeners were: Utako Tanigawa, Tom Slavicek, Mr. and Mrs. Coucheron (Julie's parents joining us from Norway!), Asa Williams, Ed Ewing, Judy Manganiello, Shoko Tanaka, Richard Bishop, Michael Bronoff (joining from Texas), Maggie Frick.

The musicale started with two lovely performances. Natale Farrell, one of our newer members, played the Rachmaninoff Elegie, a very challenging and "Rachmaninoff-y" piece; it was her first try at performing this piece and we all enjoyed it very much. Then Carol Wazlavek played an excerpt from Chopin's Ballade #2, another difficult piece. Again, we loved hearing this and were pleased to see our participants playing pieces both formidable and varied.

A new member, Michael Bronoff, asked Carol why she only played part, not all, of the Ballade. Carol and Utako both explained to him that one of the features of these musicales is that members can try out pieces, or portions thereof, several times before playing them in formal recitals. That is one of the goals of GMG since the beginning - we are all invited to play for others informally in order to polish our musical and performing skills.

The last 30 minutes of the musicale featured Julie Coucheron, an internationally recognized solo and chamber music artist. GMG member Anna Armstrong has been a student of Julie since last November and Anna introduced Julie to the group. Anna played a short clip of Julie playing the last part of Mendelssohn's Piano Trio #1, 1st movement, with David Coucheron (Julie's brother and concertmaster of the ASO) and Christopher Rex (past principal cellist of the ASO). This clip showed a rehearsal of the trio, which was performed two weeks ago as part of the Amelia Island Chamber Festival. Anna explained that she wanted this video to illustrate the virtuosity and passion in this trio, as representative of so much of the chamber music repertoire.

This led to a very informative and interesting discussion with Julie, including a demonstration by Julie at her piano of the different way that the opening of the Trio #1 would be played by the pianist as a chamber musician as opposed to a solo performance. The feel and dynamics of the piano part were completely different, with Julie even singing the opening bars of the cello part as she played to illustrate the collaborative nature of this music.

We were very lucky to have Julie Coucheron as our guest, with her musicality and enthusiasm providing an inside view of chamber music performance. We hope to follow up with another session on the chamber music repertoire in the future.

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(Submitted by Anna Armstrong)

We had a new guest, Natale who is a pianist and piano teacher in Roswell. Welcome, Natale!

All the participants truly enjoyed the excellent presentation by Carol Wazlavek. She will post her presentation available to you soon. After Carol's Chopin Ballade #2, Utako played Scarlatti K.380/L.23 and explained briefly the characteristics of this music.

Then all the participants joined to share their special music in their lives. They are Rachmaninoff Concerto #2, Chopin's music including e minor Waltz, Gail-Haydn Trio, orchestral pieces such as Prokofiev's and Mendelssohn's.

Next week, Pam Martin will play and present Chopin Ballade #4!

See you next Wednesday, 9/9!

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(Submitted by Utako Tanigawa)

Presenter: Ed Ewing

Performer: Utako Tanigawa

Listeners: Tom Slavicek, Carol Wazlavek, Kimber Kwiatkowski, Julie Woodall, Shoko Tonaka, Gail Starr, Anna Armstrong, Fran Richards, Pam Martin, Ruth Purcell, Gloria Rockoff, Annette Russo

Ed Ewing began with a presentation of his own art work. Ed's paintings came to life for us as he told the story that accompanied each one. We could see Christina working at the gym where Ed met her. He used charcoal on paper for her beautiful portrait. Several paintings originated from photos that Ed had taken during his travels. We could imagine the two men having the conversation in Guatamala or the Omani women at the mosque. Most of Ed's work today was oil on canvas with vibrant color. The Moroccan shoes would definitely be a bright spot as you walked past them at the market. Then something as ordinary as a pine stump in your yard can become the subject on the canvas. We were left wondering about pteranodon as he flew through the evening sky. Beautiful work Ed, we all enjoyed your art and the stories about each one.

Utako began speaking about Chopin's Etude Op. 25, No.11, Winter Wind. She was expressing the challenge this etude presented. Then Utako played the Beethoven Sonata, Op. 31 No.3. We enjoyed her skillful performance of this Sonata.

(Submitted by Annette Russo)

Players/Presenters: Nico Brett, Maggie Frick, Carol Wazlavek

Listeners: Ed Ewing, Fran Richards, Tom Slavicek, Shoko Tanaka, Utako Tanigawa, Kelly Brett, Jason Brett

Nico started the afternoon by describing the characters he envisions while playing Chopin’s Grande Valse Brilliante. He was inspired to learn the piece when he saw pianist Michael Schneider introduce it in a similar way. The introduction really drew him into the piece as a member of the audience, and, although the piece is still a work in progress for him, Nico wanted to practice passing the same experience on to others. There was a consensus that knowing the interpretation did indeed add to the listeners experience.

Next, Maggie performed the Theme and 11 of the variations from Mendelssohn’s Variations Serieuses, two more than last time. A difficult piece both musically and technically, she’s making excellent progress and hopes to add the last six variations and play through the whole piece by the next musicale. Maggie also shared a technique her teacher gave her to train her muscles to remain relaxed during a fast passage.

Lastly, Carol explained about the stories for Chopin’s Ballades. Theoretically there was one poem associated with each ballade, but Chopin was unclear about his intention. She found six stories to attempt to match up to the four ballades, with no consensus as to which story or stories belong(s) with which piece. There was time to detail the story for the first ballade as well as a second story that was supposed to be associated with the fourth but doesn’t seem to be a good fit. There wasn’t time to detail anymore of the stories for today, perhaps the mystery can be resolved in a future musicale!

The day ended with a discussion about favorite musicians. Utako invited everyone to continue to share their thoughts about their favorite musicians on the GMG blog. All in all, it was a lovely hour spent in good company.

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(Submitted by Kelly Brett)

Friday, July 31st's Virtual Masterclass with Dr. Joe Chapman was postponed at the last minute due to an emergency. We held a Virtual Musicale instead.

The program was as follows:

Anna Armstrong performed the Schubert Impromptu Op.90 No.3; Anna commented that the challenge in this piece is keeping the accompaniment soft while bringing out the melody.

Maggie continued with more pages of her Chopin Ballade No.4; Maggie said that she had just had a piano lesson with her teacher, who advised her of a relaxation technique of moving her torso in conjunction with her arms in order to reduce tightness.

Julie Woodall performed the Mendelsshon Op. 14 Rondo Capriccioso; Utako commented for Julie, mentioning that Mendelssohn was one of 4 major composers who who all were born at about the same time - Mendelssohn, Schumann, Chopin and Liszt.

Arlene Martinedes played the 1st movement of  Mozart's Sonata  K. 332, which was published in 1784.

Utako performed Beethoven Op. 31 No.3 2nd movement; she commented that this is the third and last of his Op. 31 piano sonatas, which also include "The Tempest". The sonata was given the nickname The Hunt by a third party due to one of its themes being reminiscent of a horn call.  It is a 4 movement sonata, with a Scherzo for the 2nd movement.

Tom Slavicek commented that he has been reading a biography of Beethoven, and found an interesting fact about some discrepancies in how Beethoven's name appeared in some publications, sometimes appearing as Ludwig van Beethoven, and sometimes Ludwig von Beethoven. The "von" would indicate being from a royal family, and therefore could illicit greater recognition and profit.

Utako played a video that Jimmy Baskerville has done for the group that can be used to promote interest in GMG.

After the music performances, we discussed our favorite composers and/or favorite composition. Largely, members said that they favored whoever they currently were working on, although Chopin was mentioned more than a few times.  Rob Busey recalled a story record called Sparky's Magic Piano, where he heard Chopin's Polonaise in Ab. Ever since hearing it that first time, it has been his all time favorite piece. Then there was some discussion about the pianist/composer Julian Fontana, who lived in Chopin's shadow, and sadly, never received the assistance of Chopin to gain public favor.

Next weeks' Virtual Musicale will be Thursday, Aug.6 from 11 am to 12 pm.   We will discuss favorite compositions.

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(Submitted by Carol Wazlavek)

GMG is the only platform for me to sing solo and your encouragement and support make my journey very easy. I appreciate and cherish this opportunity very much. - Fuling

She looked wonderful and you could tell she was totally enjoying the meeting. She has such a broad and wonderful following of music lovers and singers.  She is at her best surrounded by wonderful musicians and opera. - Virginia

This was one of the very best gatherings EVER!

Fran, you are a delight.

And it was such a special pleasure to hear Fuling and Maggie. -Gail

Agreed!  I'd love to hear more of Fran's recollections!  I'm trying to look at the Met's archives right now actually, trying to figure out just what productions I did see here in Atlanta, somewhere between 1979 and 1986.  I KNOW I saw Pavarotti in Elixer of Love - even though the archives say he did that in other years.  I met him that night, we had a funny (PG) encounter  , I'd like to see who else I was introduced to backstage BY P. HIMSELF - he took me around backstage to show off the T-shirt I had made him....at the Civic center.  P. also sang in another opera that week, can't remember which. The other opera I was recalling was  Billy Budd, but I also have seen Peter Grimes ...not in the same year, over a period of years. -Carol

Narrative by Asa Williamns

Today’s Virtual Musicale had a nice attendance of 17 people including four of Fran's students.

Maggie Frick lead off by playing the Variations Serieuses by Mendelssohn. It is a difficult

work and she played very well.

Fuling Chiang then sang 2 pieces. The first by Umberto Giordano: Amor ti vieta from Fedora.

The second was Solo Mio, which Fuling sang in Chinese. He said this was a popular song in

China.

At this time, we continued an interview with Fancesca (“Fran”) Richards as part of her 90 th

birthday celegration. Utako showed a nice power slide 90 th Birthday tribute to Fancesca,

which included some of her singing from her younger years. We then heard from nice tributes

from some of her current and former students who joined today’s virtual musicale. Finally, Finally, Francesca gave us nice memory moments of her teaching career.

In conclusion to the musicale, Utako Tanigawa played an excerpt from Chopin’s Fantasie Impromtu, Op. 66.

Sincerely,

(Submitted by Asa J Williams)

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Message from Fran-

Dear Utako, Our musicale was lovely. Thank you for all your work. I so enjoyed seeing Michael and Vicky. They are wonderful young people with many interests and very engaged in making better world. So prund of them. It just was a delightful hour!

On July 9th we conducted another installment of our virtual Musicales via ZOOM. It was very heartwarming to see everyone again, even though we could not be present in person. Nevertheless our fellowship and feeling of being a "musical family" were very welcome in this time of isolation for most of us. We want to thank Utako for setting up these ZOOM sessions for us and for everyone's participation. This week's session opened up with getting updates on everyone's activities of late. Ed has been busy creating beautiful oil paintings (check out the Blog), several continue to give lessons either personally or on line, and everyone, of course, continues to practice, practice, practice towards our journey to a "Carnegie Hall" performance some day. Some of the topics of discussions included suggestions on improving our playing technique (overcoming difficult passages; stretching to reach those large chords and sustaining a note, etc.); the size of Rachmaninoff's hands compared to ours (he could reach a 13th) and how sometimes a smaller hand can actually have an advantage over a larger one; the construction of a piano - pros and cons of a full sized piano vs one that has been reduced in size (Josef Hoffmann's piano keys were constructed slightly shorter than standard to accommodate his smaller hands); the technical difficulties in achieving the highest notes on a violin; and a description of how Artur Rubinstein showed off his hands at a home "musicale" in Winnipeg, Canada in the 1940s where one could see his outstretched hand and thumb swooping downwards at an unusual angle (he, too, could reach a 13th). 

The highlights of the Musicale were the performances. Maggie impressively played several variations of Mendelssohn's Variations Serieuses. She will be performing the entire set of variations at her upcoming recital (along with Chopin's Ballade No. 4 and other pieces). Karen Lin impressed us with her performance of Fritz Kreisler's Tambourin Chinois, a virtuosic piece which was played with gusto and showcased the melodic line very nicely. And, lastly, Utako (who likes to call herself the 'guinea pig' at these Musicales) showed off her to-date progress of the Shubert Impromptu No. 3, a piece which she has just started to study just weeks ago. An interesting question was asked: How long does it take to get a piece ready for a formal performance? The answers varied from just several weeks (for the simpler ones, perhaps), to up to two years. Jimmy mentioned that although he may know a particular piece's technical notes and can play it in a 'mechanical' way there is always some nuance that is discovered with each playing, thus making that piece as one that is continually "in progress". 

Our future Musicales will, likely, engage us in discussing performance anxiety and how to overcome it (we can all blame Liszt who started this whole stage fright thing), and more on Chopin's music and life, as well as more performances.

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(Submitted by Tom Slavicek)

Twelve attendees including three new comers enjoyed getting together today.  Arlene played Debussy 'Rain in the garden" beautifully followed by Margie's Chopin Ballade #4 for the first section, she has made noticeable progress in this very difficult piece.  Although Fran's birthday session was delayed, the participants had colorful comments on Stage Fright.  We shared our experiences and possible remedies.  Obviously Stage Fright is not an uncommon issue and there are no clear solutions, but we can cope with it.  We will continue this type of discussion on different topics at future musicales.

We had nine attendees - Fran, Fuling, Ed, Richard, Maggie, Judy, Jimmy, Arlene, and Utako.

Maggie played Chopin Ballade #4, which was a very difficult piece musically and technically. She said it's WIP but she was capturing the music well and had beautiful phrases. Utako played Waltz Op. 34 No.1 and Nocturne Op 9 No.1 - both partially. Both were not ready yet....

Each member expressed their feeling toward Chopin, favorite pieces, and future goal pieces. Fran mentioned that Chopin composed several songs, too, most of which were not known much.

She loves his beautiful melody line and sees his deep personality. Richard likes Fantasy f minor, Sonata, Ballades, and Etudes, Judy's goal is Fantasy-impromptu (and going to Alaska), Arlene loves to play Ballade g minor, Jimmy also likes Fantasy-impromptu as well as Nocturnes.

Since Chopin is one of the most beloved composers, we will have continuing sessions sometime soon.

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(Submitted by Utako Tanigawa)

GMG held a virtual musicale on June 17 which was opened by Utako masterfully playing Schubert’s Impromptu No. 2. She also noted that the second virtual recital is now online and encouraged everyone to check it out. The highlight of the hour was an interview with Anna about her life and love of chamber music. She is a native Atlantan, which is a rarity these days. Early in her life she played with another pianist and her love of chamber music was born. While she did not major in music, rather in Asian studies (who knew?), she continued with life by having two children, becoming a CPA, and starting her own firm. Eventually enough was enough and she retired from accounting and returned to music and has enjoyed it ever since. Gail also added much to the conversation being a chamber musician herself.

Utako reminded us that Fran’s birthday is July 1 and she will be 90 years old! We all look forward to her interview which will be fascinating. The next musicale is next Thursday, June 24, at 11:00 a.m. You won’t want to miss it!

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(Submitted by Kimber Kwiatkowski)

Our musicale/conversation session today was fun. We had seven members in attendance. Utako played Chopin’s Etude, Opus 10, No. 12 beautifully. Julie played the Finale to Schumann’s Abegg Variations.

We talked about what pieces we were working on, and we had a discussion on how many pieces we study at a time. Answers ranged from 2 pieces to 20! Carol said that she works on the pieces that her students are playing so she can help them more and stay fresh. Jimmy talked about working on hand position and hand independence. Some members talked about reviewing pieces that they have perfected once a week to keep from losing them.

Carol and Jimmy discussed making an audio recording and adding video. They know their stuff!

We look forward to hearing Utako interview Anna next week about her life and musical experiences. Please join us!

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(Submitted by Julie Woodall)

We had the first virtual musicale of the month of June via Zoom at 2 p.m. on Wednesday June 3rd. Attendees were : Utako Tanigawa, Ed Ewing, Anna Armstrong, Carol Wazlavek, Arlene Martinides, Tom Slavicek, Judy Manganiello and Shoko Tanaka. Firstly Shoko played her work-in-progress piece; Schumann’s Fantasiestücke op.12 no.2 “Aufshwung (Soaring)”. Next Judy played Chopin’s Nocturne in B flat minor op.9 no.1 very beautifully. Her second play via Zoom was successful in both aspects, music and technology! Lastly Utako played Chopin’s Waltz op.34 no.1 “Valse Brillante”, she said still Work-In-Progress but presented very well its elegant and delightful elements of this piece. After the performances, members shared their updates on their lives and also information regarding audio technologies. Also we talked about the challenges and struggles of music that the are playing and advised each other. In addition, Tom shared his recent activities and presented his beautiful leather art works. Those are absolutely gorgeous!

Next Virtual Musicale will be Thursday June 11th at 11 a.m. We hope to see you all there!

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(Submitted by Shoko Tanaka)

Due to COVID, our musicales have successfully moved online. Thursday, May 28th was another example of how we are all enjoying these gatherings.

Utako shared the amazing amount of progress she has made in a few short weeks since beginning to study the Chopin Etude op. 25, #11. This etude is especially challenging and, like all the energetic etudes, can result in tense wrists and tired fingers way before the end of the piece. Utako's fluid technical expertise was a delight to listen to.

Arlene Martinides has truly mastered her movement of Debussy's Estampes (les Jardins sous la Pluie), and even on Zoom, she brought out the fluid, singing line through the tricky repeated notes.

Shoko Tanaka's 1st movement of the Beethoven Sonata in f minor, Op. 2 was energetic and spot-on, both technically and musically. (And, little Sean made a brief appearance and was delightful, too!).

Richard Bishop shared some of the technically tricky segments of the Beethoven Sonata that he recorded for our Online Recital. His suggestions regarding memorization and metronome practice were gratefully appreciated.

Gail Starr shared her Chopin Waltz, Op. 42 that is still a work in progress. Everyone offered valuable suggestions on areas to work on. Thank you!

Even though Anna Armstrong didn't have time to stay for the whole session, we look forward to hearing her next time.

I am personally SO grateful to Utako and the whole group for allowing me the opportunity to start playing solo repertoire again, after years and years of only sight-reading chamber music and accompanying students for fun. I'm learning so much from everyone and am inspired to keep practicing.

Looking forward to hearing everyone next time!

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(Submitted by Gail Starr)

The Georgia Musicale Group held a pleasant and enjoyable virtual musicale on Thursday, May 21st, 2020, which was attended by nine people. Judy Manganiello opened the musicale with a delightful performance of Chopin's Nocturne, Op. 9, No. 1. Next, Shoko Tanaka played two movements (Allemande and Gigue) of Bach's French Suite in G major. We were then treated to another performance of Bach, as Maggie Frick played three movements (Courante, Sarabande, and Minuet and Trio) of his B minor French Suite. Sam Smith then gave a fascinating presentation on the historical performance database at Carnegie Hall. We learned that Josef Hofmann played the most concerts there out of any other pianist, and that Chopin's Ballade No. 1 is the most performed piano piece at the hall, as well as many other interesting facts. Carol Wazlavek ended the musicale by instructing us on how to publish iPhone videos onto YouTube. 

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(Submitted by Maggie Frick)

Rain seems to be a recurring theme for our musicales.  It rained again as we traveled to the home of Julie Harbin, where she welcomed us into her wonderful studio with two pianos from which to choose.  Once many had arrived, we forgot about the rain for a while as we chatted away.  We had 13 GMG members and a guest who wants to join us.  We welcome Deborah Weiner.  Thank you, Julie for hosting us for this musicale and your warm hospitality.

The beauty of the Harp filled the room as Julie played, Let There Be Peace on Earth.  The harp was a delightful variation to our musicales.  Sabine, we loved your Sonata in E major by Scarlatti.  It was a perfect piece to follow the harp.  Utako breezed through the Chopin Nocturne Op. 62 No. 1, which was a very technical piece.  Arlene was right in tune with the weather performing, Debussy’s Jardins sous la pluie.  It’s great to have you back with GMG. 

Leanne continues to perfect Franck’s Sonata in A, 2nd movement.  We really appreciate your focus and endurance as you polish the details of this piece from memory for Carnegie Hall.  Ed performed the Tocatta from Le Tombeau de Couperin.  We are so impressed as you play this from memory.  Annette sang Goodnight My Someone/ Till There Was You where the characters find love and in O Mio Babbino Caro love tragically slips away.  

Kimber beautifully performed a piece from Des Abends, as she will be performing all the pieces with her piano students.  Lugubre Gondala was just as morbid as Tom described before playing.  Liszt definitely got his feelings and mood across in this piece.  Well done, Tom.  Rob brought a light hearted interlude for the morning.  We all sang, The Lady Is a Tramp.  That was a great change to the routine.  

Sabine played the Mozart Fantasia in D minor beautifully portraying the somber and reflective, but flowing introduction. Then the piece moves into the lighter portions where the mood is a little brighter.  Then Julie W. and Utako played the Mozart Sonata K 521 1st movement with four hands which was a great contrast to the Mozart Fantasia.  You could imagine everyone getting up and dancing.  Well done ladies.  Finally, Paul performed Beethoven’s “Tempest”.  We could just imagine it as you played, Paul.   

The diversity of music and performers is so inspiring and encouraging to all of us.  We can imagine ourselves trying something new or taking on challenge.  Thank you to all who have performed today and for your support and encouragement..  

We truly do “sing and play for our supper”.  We enjoyed delicious sandwiches, fruit, veggies, cheese and crackers.  For sweets, we ate ginger cake, cookies, and brownies.  Julie had hot coffee, tea and hot chocolate to warm up this rainy day.

Thank you again, Julie for hosting this wonderful musicale.   We were glad to meet Deborah and look forward to hearing her play next time.  Out next musicale will be on March 17, 2020 at Piano Works in Duluth.  Join us.

Please take time to read the details of the program below.

1. Julie Harbin (Harp) / Sy Miller and Jill Jackson   Let There be Peace on Earth

2. Sabine Walsh / Scarlatti   Sonata in E Major, K531

3. Utako Tanigawa / Frederic Chopin   Nocturne Op. 62 No.1

4. Arlene Martinides / Claude Debussy   Jardins sous la pluie (Garden in the rain

5. Leanne Manning / Franck   Sonata in A

6. Ed Ewing / Ravel   Toccata

7. Annette Russo W/Kimber / Wilson   Goodnight My Someone/Till There Was You

                                                    Puccini   O Mio Babbino Caro

8. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Schumann   Des Abends

9. Tom Slavicek / Liszt   Lugubre Gondola
10. Rob Busey / Sinatra Sing-a-long time permiting 

11. Sabine Walsh / Mozart   Fantasia in D minor

12. Julie and Utako / Mozart   Sonata K 521 1st movement 

13. Paul Cossman / Beethoven   Sonata 17, D minor, Op 31, No 2, "Tempest" 3rd movement

14. Deborah Weiner / Listener

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(Respectfully submitted by Annette Russo)

The first GMG concert of 2020 at Steinway Piano Galleries was a great success. Utako Tanigawa welcomed a full house of attendees, including several who had never before attended our concerts and who heard about us on social media. The program, which featured Chopin and Beethoven, was warmly received.

Asa Williams bookended the concert with Chopin’s “Aeolian” Etude as the first selection and 2 movements of the Beethoven Sonata Op. 2 No. 3 as the last selection – what a great way to start and finish! Olga Pikus gave us a beautiful interpretation of Chopin’s famous Waltz Op. 64 No.2, and she joined Leanne Manning late in the program for a splendid duo performance of Cesar Franck’s Sonata in A, arranged for clarinet and piano. Leanne also treated us to the Allemande and Corrente from Bach’s Violin Partita No. 2, sounding luscious on her clarinet.

We were treated to Paul Cossman’s first-ever GMG concert performances, including Chopin’s posthumous Nocturne in C# minor and Beethoven’s challenging Tempest Sonata. Well done, Paul – we look forward to many more performances!

Utako Tanigawa continued to delight us with her Chopin Nocturne Op. 62 No. 1 and Beethoven Sonata Op. 31 No. 3. Listening to Utako is always a pleasure.

Shoko Tanaka was heroic in joining us late in the first half of the concert with her toddler, Sean; Shoko handed Sean off to another performer and proceeded to play Chopin’s Ballade #3 with grace and feeling before retrieving Sean and leaving us to return him to his nap. We appreciate Shoko’s artistry and willingness to remain an important part of GMG despite the demands of career and young motherhood.

After a short intermission, with refreshments and conversation, the concert continued with light music in the Spanish style, as Judy Manganiello played Eugenie Rocherolle’s Cantico Iberico, which was quite the crowd pleaser. Anna Armstrong played the final of three Chopin Nocturnes for the day, his Nocturne #1 in B-flat minor, an ethereal and lovely piece of composition. Continuing with Chopin, Kimber Kwiatkowski played the Impromptu No. 3 Op. 51 with the skill and musicality that we have come to expect from Kimber.

All in all, it was a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon, and we appreciate the hospitality of the Steinway Piano Galleries in allowing us to enjoy their lovely facilities.

(Respectfully submitted by: Anna Armstrong)

Another wonderful morning of music was enjoyed by all who attended.  There were 14 performers and listeners at this musicale.  We appreciate Piano Works for hosting this musicale. 

Judy and Arlene began the morning with Cantico Iberico and Soiree dans Grenade.  These pieces are enjoyable to listen to and are sounding better each time we hear them.  Beethoven’s, very moving, Sonata Op. 2, No. 3: 1st and 3rd movements were performed by Asa this morning, from memory.  We were glad to have Nancy with us also playing a Beethoven Sonata Op. 28, 1st movement.  Leanne is continuing to fine tune her performance of Franck’s Sonata in A, the 2nd movement this time, which is the most substantial movement in the Sonata.  Another Beethoven was performed by Utako.  It was the lyrical and playful Sonata Op. 31, No. 3, the 1st and 2nd movement.  

Chopin’s Nocturne Op. 9, No. 1 is one we never tire of hearing.  Thank you, Anna for your beautiful performance.  On a lighter note, Annette sang two selections from The Music Man, Goodnight My Someone and Till There Was You.  Kimber is still wowing us with Franck’s Chorale from Prelude, Chorale and Fugue.  Finally, I think the Flamingo Strut is ready to go on the road, ladies. The Strut is fun to listen to and must be fun to play.  Thank you all for such amazing performances!

After all that performing, we gathered around the refreshment table enjoying the goodies and good conversation.  There were muffins, cookies, pumpkin bread, fruit, cheese and crackers, coffee, and tea.  Thanks again to Piano Works and all who attended this musicale.  Our next event is at the home of Julie Harbin on March 5, 2020.  We hope you will be able to join us there.

Please read the program below for all the details.

1. Judy Manganiello / Rocherolle   Cantico Iberico

2. Arlene Martinides / Debussy   Soiree dans Grenade

3. Asa Williams / Beethoven   Sonata, Op. 2, No. 3: 1st and 3rd mvmts

4. Nancy Dunn / Beethoven   Sonata Op.28, 1st movement

5. Utako Tanigawa / Beethoven   Sonata Op.31, No. 3, 1st and 2nd movements

6. Leanne Manning / Franck   Sonata in A, 2nd mvt

7. Anna Armstrong  / Chopin   Nocturne Op. 9, No.1

8. Annette Russo w/Kimber / Meredith Wilson   Goodnight My Someone/Till There Was You

9. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Franck   Chorale from Prelude, Chorale and Fugue

10. Abbie and Judy / Asberry   Flamingo Strut

11. Abbie Hattauer / Asberry   Still, Still, Still

12. Julie Woodall / Listener

13. Marjorie Williams / Listener

14. Steven Bennett / Listener

15. Jimmy Baskerville / Listener

(Respectfully submitted Annette Russo)

​

​

After traveling through the heavy rain, we were welcomed warmly at the Cossman’s home.  We left our wet shoes, coats, and umbrellas at the door and enjoyed a morning of lovely music.  Paul’s piano is very special as it had belonged to his mother.  His Steinway has been completely, refurbished and all enjoyed playing this beautiful instrument.  

Paul began with Scriabin’s Etude, Op. 2, No. 1 and Mozart’s Spirited Rondo alla Turca.  Beethoven’s Sonata 15, 1st movement was played by Nancy.  Utako continued with Chopin’s Waltz Op.64 No 1.  It was a minute give or take.   We were glad to have Arlene playing with GMG again.  Many of us performed some pieces that have been in the works for a while.  These pieces are sounding better and better.  It is wonderful to hear the progress each performer is making.  Our group of 15 attendees enjoyed the variety of music this morning.

Lunch was a delicious buffet of lasagna, salads, garlic bread, cheese and  crackers, and a buffet of desserts as well.  The dining room table was set as if we had been invited to a banquet.  All enjoyed the meal and fellowship of the group.  Thank you to the Cossman’s for hosting the Musicale and their warm hospitality.

Our next event will be a Musicale at Piano Works on Tuesday, February 18, 2020.  We hope to see you there.  

Please read more about this musicale in the program below.

1. Paul Cossman / Scriabin   Étude, Op 2, No 1

                                Mozart   Rondo alla Turca

2. Nancy Dunn / Beethoven   Sonata #15, 1st movement

3. Utako Tanigawa / Chopin   Walts Op.64 no1

                                   Chopin   Etude Op. 10 No.12

4. Annette Russo with Kimber / Donaudy   Amorosi miei giorni

5. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Franck   Chorale from Prelude, Chorale and Fugue

6. Arlene Martinides / Debussy   Soiree dans Grenade

7. Jimmy Baskerville / Shubert   Impromptu #3

8. Carol Wazlavek / Radiohead/O'Riley   Talk Show Host (partial)

9. Leanne Manning / Franck   Sonata

10. Sabine Walsh / Mozart   Fantaisie in D minor

11. Abbie Hattauer / Pam Asberry   Still, Still, Still

12. Judy Manganiello / Rocherolle   Cantico Iberico

13. Abbie and Judy / Asberry   Flamingo Strut

Rob Busey / Listener 

Steven Bennett / Listener

Barbara Cossman / Listener

​

(Respectfully submitted by Annette Russo)

The brisk January air ushered us quickly inside this morning for our musicale.  Winter was soon forgotten as we warmed up the piano, clarinet, and voices.  Ten of us gathered at Piano Works for this morning’s musicale.  We thank Piano Works for their hospitality each time we meet here.

Even though a smaller number of musicians played, we were treated to some intense and delightful musical works.  We had time to share copies of the music and have some discussion about the selections performed.  Utako began with the Beethoven Sonata Op.31 No. 31st movement.  She described the tone of the movement and played a sampling of the other 3 movements at the end.  Next, Sam played another Beethoven Sonata, Op. 26 2nd movement.  The Scherzo was most enjoyable, and Sam played from memory as well.  Judy played Cantico Iberico by Rocherolle.  This very dancelike and melodic piece was easy to listen to.  Berceuse is a lovely lullaby from the opera, Jocylyn by Benjamin Godard, sung by Annette. 

Jimmy has been working diligently on the Brahms Rhapsody No. 1.  He played the piece from memory and all the effort is paying off-well done.  We enjoyed the Brahms’ Ballade played by Anna and Franck’s Prelude from Prelude Chorale & Fugue 5 performed by Kimber.  Excellent ladies on both of these pieces.  Then Leanne played a clarinet solo, Franck’s 3rd movement Recitativeo-Fantasia from Sonata in A.  Leanne will be performing this piece with piano at the concert in Carnegie Hall in July. Finally, Asa played the 1st movement of Schubert’s Sonata in A minor Op. 143.   This piece was performed from memory, awesome.

After the performing portion of the musicale, we enjoyed some light refreshments and more discussion and socializing.  We always have a great time.  We hope you will join us for the next event.  The February 6, 2020 home musicale will be at the home of Paul Cossman.  Please see the musicale sign up on the GMG website. We hope to see you there.

The program is listed below to provide more details about the musicale.

Program

1. Utako Tanigawa / Beethoven   Sonata Op. 31 No. 3 1st movement

2. Sam Smith / Beethoven   Sonata Op.26 2nd mvt Scherzo

3. Judy Manganiello / Rocherolle   Cantico Iberico

4. Annette Russo / Godard   Berceuse from the Opera Jocylyn

5. Jimmy Baskerville / Brahms   Rhapsody #1

6. Anna Armstrong / Brahms   Ballade, Op. 118, No. 3

7. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Franck   Prelude from Prelude Chorale & Fugue 5

8. Leanne Manning  / Franck   3rd mvt Recitativo-Fantasia from Sonata A

9. Asa Williams / Schubert   Sonata in A minor, Op. 143, 1st mvt

​

(Respectfully submitted: Annette Russo)

On Saturday, January 4th PianoWorks in Duluth hosted the first concert for the Georgia Musicale Group's 2020 season. The featured works were by Beethoven and Schubert among others. It was a wonderful day of beautiful music and warm fellowship among friends, visitors and the eight performers of the GMG. 

The concert began with Utako Tanigawa performing Haydn's Piano Sonata Hob:xvi 50, 1st movement, then moved to Beethoven's "Pathetique" Sonata which was performed by three pianists, each taking a movement of the Sonata: Carol Wazlavek, Tom Slavicek, and Kimber Kwiatkowski. This made for an interesting experience as each pianist brought their own interpretation to the piece. Shoko Tanaka's rendition of Schubert's Impromptu Op. 90, No. 2 and  Utako's rendition of his Impromptu Op. 143 ,No. 3 showed the breadth of the composer's emotion and maturity in these compositions. Sam Smith finished off the first part of the concert by performing Beethoven's Sonata No. 12, Op. 26 third movement (Funeral March) and the fourth movement (Allegro).

During the Intermission guests and members enjoyed each other's company and the refreshments that were brought. Everyone also enjoyed learning about the spans of famous pianists throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, as depicted on a poster that Tom had prepared. Rachmaninov in particular was known to have had an extra large hand that spanned 13 keys on the piano.

After the Intermission the concert resumed with special music transcribed for piano 4-hands. These were performed by Pamela Martin and Kristi Helfen. These included Bach's Brandenburg Concerto, Summer Solstice from Scenes of Seasons, by Jeff Manookian, and The Sonata Op. 144, "Lebensturme" by Franz Schubert. It was a great pleasure and honor for everyone to have performed on the concert grand generously made available to us by PianoWorks.

(Respectfully Submitted by Tom Slavicek)

Our first home event of the new year was a warm gathering of eight members at Julie Woodall’s in the North Georgia mountains.  Julie’s house is warmly decorated with spiritual and musical appointments, lovely pictures of birds, and other animals. It is always a treat to go there once a year where she serves her own delicious Brunswick Stew.  The first highlight was Tom Slavicek’s collage which pictured solo pianists and composers and a fascinating study comparing their maximum reach on the keyboard. The point taken was that hand size has nothing to do with pianistic virtuosity.  The varied piano pieces, as usual, included some lesser-known works, and challenging classics. One of the unique aspects of our home musicales are the “works in progress.” This opportunity, where our members play difficult choices before a friendly and empathetic audience, is such a unique blessing compared to just playing alone or for a teacher.  Abbie Hattauer and Annette Russo sang moving soprano solos. They are so encouraging to those of us who only enjoy singing in larger group settings. As a final note, our tireless founder noted that concert attendance has shown remarkable increases particularly in the past two years. Of course, we all know who to thank for THAT!  

Please enjoy reading the program.

​

1. Julie Woodall / Granados   Spanish Dance No. 3

2. Abbie Hattauer / John Jacob Niles   I Wonder As I Wander

3. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Franck   Prelude from Pre flat minorlude, Chorale and Fugue 

4. Tom Slavicek / Schubert   Serenade

5. Judy Manganiello and Abbie Hattauer / Asberry   Flamingo Strut

6. Judy Manganiello / Chopin   Nocturne in B minor

7. Annette Russo / Godard   Berceuse from the Opera Jocylyn

8. Utako Tanigawa / Beethoven   Sonata Op. 13 2nd movement

9. Rob Busy (Listener)

​

(Respectfully submitted by Rob Busey)

GMG participated in the Third Annual First Night Dahlonega.  The group is privileged to participate in this fundraiser for Jeramiah’s Place in Dahlonega, GA. Jeramiah’s Place provides transitional housing for the homeless so they can prepare to secure more permanent housing. Many performers participated in this event throughout the town to support Jeramiah’s Place.  We want to thank the Churches in town and Dahlonega Baptist Church for hosting this event where we held our concert.

Five of our GMG members performed in this concert.  With Dr. Tanigawa at the piano, two dueling cats took the stage and sang, Duetto Boffo Di Due Gatti by Rossini.  Ruth Purcell and Julie Woodall stood in for the cats.  What an entertaining way to begin our evening.  

On a more serious note, Utako played Chaconne in G major, by Handel.  This work includes 21 variations divided into three sections beginning with G major, transitioning to G minor and back to G major and was originally played on harpsichord.  

Next, we had two selections by Edvard Grieg who was a well known Norwegian composer of the Romantic period.  Annette Russo sang I Love Thee.  Grieg wrote I Love Thee for his wife, Nina Hagerup.  The poetry of the song originally written by Hans Christian Andersen and Grieg’s natural feeling for melody have created the appeal this song has endured over time.  

We marveled as Julie played the1stmovement of Grieg's Sonata in e minor. At age 22, Grieg wrote his only sonata. It was a beautiful performance.

Then we admired Utako’s moving interpretation of Schubert’s Impromptu Op. 142 No. 3. His Impromptus were composed in 1827 as a series of 8.  The second set of 4 impromptus which contained Op. 142, was published posthumously in 1839.

Next, Annette sang, And This Is My Beloved, from the musical, Kismet.  The music from this show is based on the music of Alexander Borodin from his opera Prince Igor and his string quartets.  

Julie continued the program with Enrique Granados’ Spanish Dance No. 3. At 23 years of age Granados wrote a Set of 12 Spanish Dances.  This selection was quite lively as the title might suggest.  

The final selection in our program was a clarinet solo played by Leanne Manning and accompanied by Julie Woodall.  They played the 2nd movement of the Brahms’ Sonata No. 2 for Clarinet and Piano. Both Leanne and Julie demonstrated their competence and expertise as they performed this beautiful sonata.

The Georgia Musicale Group enjoys immense camaraderie whether we gather at our musicales or in concert.  We enjoy music and performing for our audiences. We hope that those who attend our events enjoy the music as much as we do.

Our next concert is at the Senior Living Place in Dahlonega, GA on Saturday, January 19, 2020 from 3pm-5pm.  We hope to see you there.

​

Please read the program for more detail.

Program

Ruth Purcell (Mezzo Soprano) & Julie Woodall (Soprano)

Duetto Boffo Di Due Gatti                         Gioacchino Rossini (1792-1869)

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Chaconne in G major                                         George Handel (1685-1759)

Annette Russo (Soprano) & Julie Woodall (Piano)

I Love Thee                                                           Edvard Grieg (1843-1907)

Julie Woodall (Piano)

Sonata in e minor, 1stMovement                           Edvard Grieg (1843-1907)

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Impromptu Op. 142 No. 3                                     Franz Shubert (1797-1828)

Annette Russo (Soprano) & Julie Woodall (Piano)

And This Is My Beloved  

                              Robert Wright (1914-2005) & George Forrest (1915-1999)

Julie Woodall (Piano)

Spanish Dance No. 3                                          Enrique Granados (1867-1916)

Leanne manning (Clarinet) & Julie Woodall (Piano)

Sonata No. 2for Clarinet and Piano, 2ndMovement

​

(Respectfully submitted by Annette Russo)

Our GMG Year End Celebration was a terrific afternoon of music and fellowship.  There were 42 in attendance and 11 of them were performers in this concert.  We offered our thanks to Steinway Piano Galleries for their warm hospitality in their Alpharetta location.  Dr. Tanigawa presented a gift of appreciation to the management and staff of Steinway Piano Galleries for our use of this wonderful venue for concerts.

Pam Asberry began our program with her majestic arrangement of March of the Kings, then her arrangement of In the Bleak Midwinter, and her own composition, Snow.  Mary Dekkers played her lively version of Jingle Bells and Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas.  Our hearts were quieted as Fuling Chiang sang The Lord’s Prayer and Ave Maria.  Utako played the Haydn Sonata Hob:xvi 50 1stmovement.  Next, she played Nocturne OP. 27 No. 2 by Chopin.  Later in the program, Utako played Shubert’s Impromptu Op. 142 No. 3. Each piece portrayed the sentiment of the composer.   Anna Armstrong changed the mood by her beautiful performance of Three Preludes by Gershwin.  Annette Russo sang two love songs, Grieg’s I Love Thee and from Kismet, And This Is My Beloved. We enjoyed a delightful piano duet by Kimber Kwiatkowski and Olga Pikus. They played Sleigh Ride, Waltz of the Flowers and Russian Dance from The Nutcracker Suite.  Kimber also played December from The Seasons by Tchaikovsky.  Debussy’s Reverie was played by Shoko Tanaka. Shoko is as graceful as the music itself. Bach was next on the program with the Prelude and Fugue in F minor, Well Tempered Clavier II performed by Richard Bishop.  Finally, Rebekah Bole joined Richard Bishop playing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No.3 in C minor for two pianos.  That was quite a treat.

We are privileged to have so many quality musicians performing in one concert.  Each performer expressed great enthusiasm and sentiment in their performance today.  A commonality of all in the group is that we love music and love sharing it with others.  

After the concert, some members of the audience were the recipients of door prizes. That’s always exciting.  Then we shared a variety of refreshments:  wine cheese, crackers, sandwiches, fruit and vegetable platters, cookies, cake, and candy.  It is our custom to eat after a performance and invite the audience to join us.

Our next concert will be on New Year’s Eve in Dahlonega at Dahlonega Baptist Church at 7:30 pm.  Our concert will be part of the First Night performances that will be held in different venues in town from 6pm until midnight.

Following that, our first Home Musicale of the year will be on January 2, 2020.

Please enjoy reading the entire program.

​

Program

Pam Asberry (Piano) 

March of the Kings                                    Traditional French/arr. Pam Asberry 

Mary Dekkers (Piano) 

Jingle Bells arrangement                                         Traditional Christmas Music 

Fuling Chiang (Tenor) & Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano) 

The Lord’s Prayer                                                       Albert Malotte(1895 - 1964) 

Utako Tanigawa (Piano) 

Sonata Hob:xvi 50 1st movement                               Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) 

Nocturne Op. 27 No.2                                              Frederic Chopin (1810-1849) 

Anna Armstrong (Piano) 

Three Preludes                                                       George Gershwin (1898-1937 ) 

Annette Russo (Soprano) & Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano) 

I Love Thee                                                                    Edvard Grieg (1843-1907) 

Kimber Kwiatkowski & Olga Pikus ( Piano Duet) 

Sleigh Ride 

Leroy Anderson (1908-1975)                               arranged by Michael Edwards 

Waltz of the Flowers from The Nutcracker Suite 

Peter I. Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)                               arranged by Milton James 

Russian Dance from The Nutcracker Suite           arranged by Jennifer Eklund 

Intermission

Pam Asberry (Piano)

In the Bleak Midwinter                 Gustav Holst (1874-1934) /arr. Pam Asberry

Snow                                                                                                     Pam Asberry

Mary Dekkers (Piano)

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas                                             Traditional

Annette Russo (Soprano) & Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano)

And This Is My Beloved  

Robert Wright (1914-2005) & George Forrest (1915-1999 )

Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano)

“December” from The Seasons                        Peter I. Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Impromptu Op. 142 No.3                                        Franz Schubert (1797—1828)

Fuling Chiang & Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano)

Ave Maria                                                               Charles Gounod (1818 – 1893)

Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

Reverie                                                                       Claude Debussy (1862-1918)

Richard Bishop (Piano)

Prelude and Fugue in F minor, Well Tempered Clavier II

Johann Sebastian Bach(1685 - 1735)

Richard Bishop (Piano) & Rebekah Healan Bole (Piano)

Piano Concerto No.3 in C minor             Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770 - 1827)

Reception

​

(Respectfully submitted by: Annette Russo)

Our December Musicale at Piano Works was a little lighter in number, but not in spirit. Fourteen members and listeners attended.  Utako presented the management at Piano Works with a gift of appreciation for their wonderful hospitality in hosting Musicales and Concerts.

Our program began with Asa playing Shubert’s Sonata in A minor, Op143, 1stmovement from memory.  Ed and Jimmy followed suit and performed their pieces from memory as well. Ed played the Ravel Toccata from Le Trombeau de Couperin, and Jimmy played the Shubert Impromptu #3 Op. 90. It was a morning for Shubert as Utako played Impromptu Op.142 No. 3. Pam M. and Kristi wowed us with a new transcription of the Brandenburg Concerto #3 with 4 hands.  The morning continued with some Christmas selections.  Abbie and Judy played a piano duet of Carol of the Bells. Judy played the Czech carol we were introduced to earlier this month.  Abby played and sang In the Bleak Midwinter, and Pam played her arrangement of March of the Kings and Hope.  Annette sang a more contemporary carol, All Is Well.

As is our tradition, refreshments and fellowship followed.  We hope to see you at the next event which is a concert at Steinway Piano Galleries in Alpharetta on Saturday December 28, 2019 from 3-5pm.

Please read the program below for more details.

1. Judy Manganiello & Abbie Hattauer / Leontovich   Carol of the Bells

2. Abbie Hattauer / Asberry   In the Bleak Midwinter

3. Judy Manganiello / O. Simacek   Vanocni ukolebavka

4. Pam Asberry / Asberry   March of the Kings, Hope

5. Annette Russo with Kimber / Kirkpatrick/Smith   All Is Well

6. Ed Ewing / Ravel   Toccata from Le Tombeau de Couperin

7. Anna Armstrong  / Arr. by Martin   Canon de Noel, The First Noel

8. Utako Tanigawa / Shubert   Impromptu Op. 142 No. 3

9. Jimmy Baskerville / Shubert   Impromptu, No. 3 Opus 90

10. Asa Williams / Schubert   Sonata in A Minor, Op. 143, 1stMvm

11. Pam Martin & Kristi Helfen / Bach   Brandenberg Concerto #3, New Transcription 

12. Steven Bennett - Listener

13. Naji Chilazi - Listener

​

(Respectfully submitted by: Annette Russo)

On this beautiful December morning, we were welcomed by Utako and Steven in their lovely home.  As the group of 18 gathered, we greeted one another, glad to see old friends and meet new ones.  Today we welcome, Paul Cossman, a new GMG member. 

Utako began the program with the lovely Un Sospiro by Liszt.  We were treated to some Christmas music in the program today that included Carol of the Bells, In the Bleak Midwinter, Come Unto Him, White Christmas, December from the Seasons, and a Czech Christmas carol and a lullaby.  We also appreciated hearing the clarinet and violin in the program today.  It is so inspiring to see some of our members playing their pieces from memory.  

Our luncheon was remarkable.  Utako has outdone herself again with a menu that included a Chop Salad, and one of Cheese and Olives.  Our main course included White Radish Gratin, Orange Chicken w/Rice, Pork Tenderloin, Roasted Potato, Beer Bread and Cinnamon Bread.  For dessert Fresh Ginger Cake and Tiramisu delighted us.  As we lingered over dessert, coffee and tea, we continued to enjoy the company of our friends around the table.

Many thanks to Utako and Steven(CCO) for their hospitality and hosting this musicale.  

Please join us for the next Musicale at Piano Works in Duluth on December 17, 2019 at 10 am.

​

Enjoy reading the details of the program.

1. Utako Tanigawa / Liszt   Un Sospiro

2. Judy Manganiello & Abbie Hattauer / Leontovich   Carol of the Bells

3. Abbie Hattauer / Asberry   In the Bleak Midwinter

4. Annette Russo / Handel   Come Unto Him

5. Paul Cossman / Mozart   Rondo alla Turca

6. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Tchaikovsky   The Seasons - December

7. Ed Ewing / Ravel   Toccata from Le Tombeau de Couperin

8. Karen Lin / Arensky   Serenade. Irving Berlin   White Christmas

9. Julie Woodall / Chopin   Impromptu, No.1

10. Olga Picas / Chopin   Waltz c# minor

11. Yi-fan Wu / J.S Bach   Partita no2 1st mvt

12. Leanne Manning / Bach   Prelude from Partita No.3 BWV1006 arr. Delecluse

13. Ruth Purcell  / Haydn   Gipsy Rondo from Trio in G

14. Jimmy Baskerville / Beethoven   Sonata #17 3rd movement

15. Tom Slavicek / Simacek 2 Czech Christmas Carols, B. Slavicek   Waltz No. 2

​

(Respectfully submitted by Annette Russo)

​

​

Georgia Musicale Group met at Piano Works in Duluth.   A group of 14 members and a listener attended on this Tuesday morning.  

A few of our performers played some challenging pieces from memory.   Jimmy, Ed, and Sam, we are inspired by your memory and excellence in performance.  Utako has taken on Handel in her repertoire, and that was a very enjoyable piece.  The Flamingo Strut was a cute piano duet played by Judy and Abbie for the first time.  Kimber and Julie very well done on the Beethoven Sonata and the Chopin Scherzo. Sabine, “River Flows in You” is really coming along.  It will be great for your competition.  We also enjoyed our vocalists Robin, Fuling, Annette, and Abbie with a variety of song. Each musicale demonstrates the dedication of each performer to a standard of excellence as a musician.  We all appreciate the support of GMG members to pursue our best performance and share the beauty of music with others.

Our GMG event would not be complete without the delicious refreshments and conversation that follow the performance.  The table was spread with coffee cake and pound cake, a pasta casserole, fruit, sandwiches, tea and coffee.

Please join us for our next home musicale on Thursday, November 7, 2019.

The program is printed below for you.

​

1. Sabine Walsh / Yiruma   River Flows in You

2. Joshua Shue / Mozart   Sonata K533, mvt. 1

3. Robin Engleman and Kimber Kwiatkowski / Strauss   Zuiegnung

4. Robin Engleman and Kimber Kwiatkowski / Ponchielli   Voce di donna o d’angelo from La Gioconda

5. Jimmy Baskerville / Brahms   Rhapsody # 1

6. Ed Ewing / Ravel   Toccata

7. Utako Tanigawa / Handel   Chaconne

8. Fuling Chiang with Joshua / Giordano   Amor ti vieta

    Fuling Chiang with Joshua / Donizetti   Una furtiva lagrima

9. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Beethoven   Sonata Op.13 3rd mvnt

10. Sam Smith / Beethoven   Piano Sonata #12 3rd mvt

11. Julie Woodall / Chopin   Scherzo 3

12. Annette Russo with Julie / Wright/Borodin   And This Is My Beloved

13. Annette Russo with Julie / Donaudy   Amorosi miei giorni

14. Abbie and Judy Manganiello / Pam Asberry   Flamingo Strut piano duet

15. Abbie Hattauer / Pam Asberry   In the Bleak Midwinter

(Respectfully submitted by: Annette Russo)

Our Home Musicale met at the lovely home of Anna Armstrong.  Twelve of us met that morning, and we were glad to welcome a first time listener, Sue Shepherd.  We enjoyed a variety of music including flute, a vocal piece and a great selection of piano pieces.  Tom played a lively waltz written by his father while he was still living in Czechoslovakia.  Everyone was intent on perfecting their performances , and it was like a Thursday morning concert. 

After the music we enjoyed a delicious luncheon of chicken salad sandwiches,  braised beef, fried okra, applesauce, and tiramisu cake, ginger cookies, chocolate chip and oatmeal cookies, and iced tea.  We thank Anna for welcoming us into her  home.

Please join us for our next Musicale at Piano Works on October 15, 2019 at 10 am.

Anna Armstrong / Debussy   Petite Suite (III. Menuet)

Anna Armstrong / Grieg   Norwegian Dances (II.)

Annette Russo w/Anna / And This Is My Beloved

Chen Pan / Franck   Prelude Op.18

Sabine Walsh / Yiruma    River Flows in You

Abbie Hattauer / Asberry   In the bleak midwinter

Janet Yao / Chopin   Nocturne in E minor, Op.72 No.1

Tom Slavicek / B. Slavicek   Waltz No. 1

Tom Slavicek / Chopin   Preludes Op. 28, Nos 4, 6

Utako Tanigawa / Chopin   Etude Op. 25 No.1 & Op. 10 No.12

Jimmy Baskerville / Brahms   Rhapsody # 1

Ed Ewing / Ravel   Toccata from Le Tombeau de Couperin 

Steven Bennett / Listener

Sue Shepherd / Listener

​

(Respectfully submitted by: Annette Russo)

The Georgia Musicale Group gave a concert at the Cherokee Art Center in Canton, GA for the first time.  The concert was a benefit for the Cherokee Art Center.  GMG members enjoyed performing their concert in this great venue. We thank the Cherokee Art Center for coordinating this concert and their hospitality to our members that evening.

Our MC, Tom Slavicek, introduced each performer by reading their bio and giving a brief description of the piece to be performed.  Here are some highlights of the program.  During the first half of the program, we heard Mary Leaf’s “Rhapsody in G minor”, Rachmaninoff’s “Prelude Op. 3 No.2”, and “Three Gershwin Preludes”. Our vocalists sang “O del mio amato ben” and “Amor ti vieta” as well as some lighter pieces like “You Raise Me Up” and “As Long As He Needs Me”. 

After a brief intermission, the vocal selections included, Shubert’s “An die Musik” and Saint-Saens’ Mon Coeur s’ouvre a ta voix.  Our pianists continued the with Schumann-Liszt’s Widmung and Chopin’s Etude Op. 10 No. 12(Revolutionary).  The program continued with Rondo Capriccioso by Mendelssohn, two Chopin Etudes Op. 25 No. 1 and Op. 10 No. 3  .The finale was the beautiful Brahms’ Rhapsody Op. 72 No 2.

Our wonderful audience of over 55 attendees enjoyed two hours of beautiful music. Thank you to the Cherokee Art Center for inviting us to perform this concert.  We must also thank Steven Bennett for his help backstage.  There were many workers behind the scenes to make this concert a success.  Thanks to all of you.   It wouldn’t be a GMG event without refreshments.  The audience joined us after the concert for some light refreshments. It was a wonderful evening.  

Please join us for our next concert on November 10, 2019 at John’s Creek United Methodist Church at 4 p.m.

Please take time to read the program as it was presented.

​

Program

*Thomas Slavicek                                     Master of Ceremonies

Judy Manganiello (Piano) / Rhapsody in G Minor   Mary Leaf (1925 –2004)  

Fuling Chiang (Tenor) & Joshua Shue (Piano) / You Raise Me Up   Rolf Lovland (1955 - ) 

Robin Engleman (Mezzo Soprano) &  Anna Armstrong (Piano) / As Long as He Needs Me from Oliver   Lionel Bart (1930 - 1999)

Judy Manganiello (Piano)/ La La Land Medley   Justin Hurwitz (1985 - )

Fuling Chiang (Tenor) & Joshua Shue (Piano) / Amor ti vieta   Umberto Giordano (1867 –1948)

Annette Russo (Soprano) & Robin Engleman (Piano) / O del mio amato ben   Stefano Donaudy (1879 –1925)

Asa J. Williams (Piano) / Prelude Op. 3 No.2   Sergei Rachmaninoff (1873 –1943)

Anna Armstrong (Piano) / Three Preludes   George Gershwin (1898-1937)  

~ Intermission ~

​

Robin Engleman (Mezzo Soprano) & Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano) / An die musik   Franz Peter Schubert (1797 - 1828)

Utako Tanigawa (Piano) / Widmung (Dedication)   Robert Schuman (1810-1856), Transcribed by Franz Liszt (1811-1886)

Etude Op. 10 No.12 (Revolutionary)   Frederic Chopin (1810 - 1849)

Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) & Asa J. Williams (Piano) / Mon cœur s'ouvre à ta voix  Camille Saint-Saëns (1835-1921)

Utako Tanigawa (Piano) / Rondo Capriccioso   Felix Mendelssohn (1809 – 1847)

Asa J. Williams (Piano) / Etude Op. 25 No.1 (Aeolian Harp), Etude Op. 10 No.3   Frederic Chopin (1810 - 1849)

Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano) / Rhapsody Op. 72 No.2   Johannes Brahms (1833 –1897)

​

(Respectfully Submitted by: Annette Russo)

Our Tuesday morning, GMG members and guests gathered at Piano Works in Duluth, GA.  There were 18 members and guests this morning.  We began with a brief discussion of the Spivey Hall Concert. All agreed that the whole concert experience was very worthwhile, and we look forward to next year’s concert.

We thoroughly enjoyed hearing Pam Asberry play two of her original compositions.  One featured the clarinet played by Leanne.  A variety of vocal pieces included music theatre, Grieg’s I Love Thee, and Saint Saens’ Mon Coeur.  Some played very demanding and lengthy pieces as you will see in the program. We all appreciate the dedication from each performer to accomplish these difficult pieces.  Finally, Asa concluded with a Shubert Piano Sonata.

Delicious refreshments were ready for us as we socialized.  We enjoyed fresh berries, chips, cheese and crackers, spice cake and brownies.  This was another wonderful musicale, great music, great food, and great people.  We hope you will join us next time.  The next Home Musicale will be on October 3 at 10 am.  

The details of today’s program follow.

​

1. Robin Engleman & Anna Armstrong / Bart   As Long As He Needs Me From Oliver

                                                                     Harburg/Lane   How Are Things in Glocca Morra from Finian’s Rainbow

2. Leanne Manning & Pam Asberry / Asberry   Eventually

3. Abbie Hattauer & Asa Williams / Saint Saens   Mon coeur

4. Annette Russo / Grieg   I Love Thee

5. Pam Asberry / Asberry   The Presence of Wonder

6. Sam Smith / Beethoven   Piano Sonata #12 1st mvt.

7. Jimmy Baskerville / Brahms   Rhapsody #1

8. Utako Tanigawa / Schubert   Impromptu Op. 90 No. 2

9. Pam Martin & Kristi Helfen / DeFalla   Premier Danza Espanola

10. Leanne Manning & Kimber Kwitkowski / Gershwin   3 Preludes

11. Asa J Williams / Schubert   Piano Sonata Op. 143 in A minor, 1stmvt. 

12. Ed Ewing   Listener

13.  Judy Mangianiello   Listener

​

(Respectfully submitted by: Annette Russo)

On this Sunday afternoon, the Georgia Musicale Group, gave a splendid recital at Spivey Hall, Clayton State University.  Asa Williams opened the program with a powerful performance of Rachmaninoff’s “Prelude, Op, 3, No.4”.   The beautiful Brahms “Rhapsody Op. 79, No.2” followed and was skillfully played by Kimber Kwiatkowski.  Abbie Hattauer Dreamed a Dream for us with her lovely vocal solo.  A “Rhapsody” by Mary Leaf was played gracefully with such convincing expression by Judy Manganiello.  Another vocal solo by Robin Engleman, “Elegy”, clearly conveyed the sadness of the one whose love is lost.  Utako Tanigawa’s stunning performance concluded the first half of the program with Chopin’s “Nocturne Op. 27, No.2” and Beethoven’s “Sonata Op. 53” “Waldstein”.  

The second half of the program began with Debussy’s “Jardins sous la pluie, Estampes”.  Shoko Tanaka elegantly played this lovely composition.  The “Premier Rhapsody” for Clarinet and piano by Debussy followed.  Leanne Manning, accompanied by Shoko Tanaka gave a superb performance.   Nico Brett played an outstanding “La campanella” from Grandes Etudes de Paganini, S141. Dawn Delangin Hawk performed with such poise and grace as she played Rachmaninoff’s “Prelude in D major, Op. 23 No.4”.   Pam Martin and Kristi Helfen are a dynamic duo on the piano.  With 4 hands they skillfully played  Dvorak’s “Silent Woods and Troubled Times” from the Bohemian Forest. Our vocalists performed in costume this time.  Robin Engleman gave a wonderful performance of “Non so piu cosa son”.   A charming, “Chacun a Son Gout” was the grand finale for our concert, sung by Abbie Hattauer.

Bravo performers, you were all outstanding. Our lovely audience thoroughly enjoyed the program.  Thank you to all at Spivey Hall and Clayton State University who assisted us in making this concert a success. We also extend a thank you to the Director of Spivey Hall, Mr. Christopher Tollak and Dr. Michiko Otaki, Professor of Music, Clayton State University.  We also want to thank Dr. Utako Tanigawa, Founder and President of Georgia Musicale Group for her organization and direction of this event.  We also would like to express our sincere appreciation to Julie Woodall who served as MC for the concert, and other GMG members; Pam Martin, Krist Helfen, Annette Russo, Asa Williams, and others who have worked behind the scenes preparing and running this concert. 

Respectfully submitted by: Annette Russo

On this beautiful Thursday morning, we met at the home of Pam Martin for our monthly musicale.   A small, but mighty group of 10 gathered for this event.   Pam led with MacDowell’s 3 from the Fireside Tales, Op. 61.   We also enjoyed a variety of piano and vocal pieces which are listed below in the program.  An interesting discussion about performance and memory followed our session.  

Our luncheon was delicious.  We began with chicken salad, a vegetable curry dish over rice, mac and cheese, salad, fruit, and for dessert, tiramisu, chocolate cake and a pistachio cream pie. 

Many thanks to Pam for her warm hospitality and opening up her home to us.  

On September 15, 2019, the next concert will be at Spivey Hall at 3pm.  Come and enjoy the performances by our GMG members.  It will be a wonderful afternoon.

1. Pam Martin / MacDowell   3 from Fireside Tales Op. 61

2. Robin Engleman and Kimber Kwiatkowski / Massanet   Elegie 

    Robin Engleman and Kimber Kwiatkowski / Mozart   Non so piu cosa son

3. Utako Tanigawa / Schubert   Impromptu no 2

4. Julie Woodall / Chopin   Scherzo Op.39

5. Annette Russo w/Julie / Donaudy   Amorosi miei giorni

6. Judy Manganiello / Bruce Berr   Barcarolle Impromptu

7. Jimmy Baskerville / Liszt   Liebestraum # 3

8. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Gershwin   Preludes

Chen Pan, Janet Yao   Listener

​

(Respectfully submitted by Annette Russo)

On this beautiful Thursday morning, we met at the home of Pam Martin for our monthly musicale.   A small, but mighty group of 10 gathered for this event.   Pam led with MacDowell’s 3 from the Fireside Tales, Op. 61.   We also enjoyed a variety of piano and vocal pieces which are listed below in the program.  An interesting discussion about performance and memory followed our session.  

Our luncheon was delicious.  We began with chicken salad, a vegetable curry dish over rice, mac and cheese, salad, fruit, and for dessert, tiramisu, chocolate cake and a pistachio cream pie. 

Many thanks to Pam for her warm hospitality and opening up her home to us.  

On September 15, 2019, the next concert will be at Spivey Hall at 3pm.  Come and enjoy the performances by our GMG members.  It will be a wonderful afternoon.

1. Pam Martin / MacDowell   3 from Fireside Tales Op. 61

2. Robin Engleman and Kimber Kwiatkowski / Massanet   Elegie 

    Robin Engleman and Kimber Kwiatkowski / Mozart   Non so piu cosa son

3. Utako Tanigawa / Schubert   Impromptu no 2

4. Julie Woodall / Chopin   Scherzo Op.39

5. Annette Russo w/Julie / Donaudy   Amorosi miei giorni

6. Judy Manganiello / Bruce Berr   Barcarolle Impromptu

7. Jimmy Baskerville / Liszt   Liebestraum # 3

8. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Gershwin   Preludes

Chen Pan, Janet Yao   Listener

​

(Respectfully submitted by Annette Russo)

Our 2019 Music Marathon was held at Piano Works in Duluth, GA.  We appreciate Piano Works hosting the event again this year.  Our special guest, Dr. Evgeny Rivkin, is a professor at the UGA School of Music.  Dr. Rivken performs as a soloist and chamber musician throughout the US, Russia, Canada, Brazil, and Europe as well as presenting master classes worldwide. 

Session I of the afternoon highlighted GMG members in concert.  There were a variety of solo and ensemble performances with piano, clarinet and vocal selections.  We enjoyed a piano duet and a two-piano Sonata.  The composers included Schumann, Ravel, Massenet, Debussy, Schulhoff, Mozart, and Rossini. 

Session II focused on Tchaikovsky’s, “The Seasons” and a discussion with Dr. Rivken. Dr. Rivken played January, February, and March from, “The Seasons”.  GMG members continued by playing May, August, and December. An interesting and informative panel discussion of the “Beauty of Eastern Europe Music” followed.

Session III was a Master Class by Dr. Rivken.  Several GMG members performed special works to be critiqued by Dr. Rivken. The selections included The Beethoven Sonata Op. 53 Waldstein 1stmovement, The Brahms Rhapsody in G Minor, Grieg’s Sonata in e minor, Prokofiev’s Visions Fugitives Op 22 # 3 and # 10, Ravel’s Tocatta from le Tombeau de Couperin, and Debussy’s Jardins sous la pluie.  Dr. Rivken gave very specific observations and recommendations to each musician, and we all benefitted from his Master Class.

Refreshments were available to our audience throughout the afternoon.  We enjoyed some quiche, a lentil casserole, sandwiches, fruit and vegetable platters.  Cheese and crackers, a variety of sweets, and beverages were also available.

Another highlight of the event is our silent auction.  The table was filled with photos, a spinning wheel, leather purses, quilted table runners, wine, and gift baskets.  Attendees bid on the items and took home some wonderful possessions at the end of the day.  GMG benefits from this fundraiser so thank you to those who donated and purchased items at the auction.

The entire Music Marathon was very successful thanks to Dr. Tanigawa in the planning of this event and GMG members who performed and assisted in various roles throughout the day.  There were 54 GMG members and guests who attended the Music Marathon.  Piano Works is a lovely venue for this special event and many thanks to Piano Works for hosting us.  Finally, we appreciated learning from our special guest, Dr. Rivken and his expertise, throughout the afternoon.

(Respectfully submitted by Annette Russo)

It was a full program of music at Georgia Musicale Group’s meeting at PianoWorks on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at 10:00 a.m.  For two hours members and guests performed and were treated to various musical works ranging from the classical period through modern day.  Selections included piano solo, vocal, piano duet, clarinet, and clarinet trio, shown below:

Jimmy Baskerville / Bach   Prelude and Fugue

Julie Woodall / Chopin   Scherzo, op. 39

Fuling Chiang and Robin Engleman / Giordano   Amor ti vieta

Fuling Chiang and Robin Engleman / Rolf Løvland; Brendan Graham   You Raise Me Up

Susan Tanguy and Sabine Walsh / Martha Mier   Skateboard Boogie

Sabine Walsh / Yiruma   River Flows in You

Susan Tanguy / Hardy   The Homecoming 

Robin Engleman and Kimber Kwiatkowski / Massanet   Elegie

Robin Engleman and Kimber Kwiatkowski / Mozart   Non so piu cosa son

Judy Manganiello / Hurwitz   La La Land Medley

Abbie Hattauer / Asberry   In the Bleak Midwinter

Pam Asberry / Asberry   The Presence of Wonder

Ed Ewing / Ravel   Toccata, Le Tombeau d C

Anna Armstrong, Leanne Manning / Gershwin   It Ain't Necessarily So

Anna Armstrong, Leanne Manning / Williams   Schindler's List

Asa J Williams / Tchaikovsky   The Seasons, Op 37a, August

Asa J Williams / Tchaikovsky   The Seasons, Op 37a, November

Kimber Kwiatkowski / Tchaikovsky   The Seasons, Op 37a, December

Utako Tanigawa / Beethoven   Op 53 1st movt.

Pam Martin and Kristi Helfen / Manookian   Scens of the Seasons: Summer solstice

Pam Asberry and Kristi Helfen / Tchaikovsky   The Seasons, Op 371, May

Sherry Ellis, viola/Diane Hargreaves, Clarinet, Esther Sokol, Piano - Atlanta Clarinet Trio

Mozart   "Kegelstatt-Trio" in E Flat Major for Piano, Clarinet, and Viola: Andante, Menuetto, and Rondeaux

​

Many thanks to Don Bennett and the entire staff of PianoWorks for making these musicales possible.

Please join us at the second annual Georgia Musicale Group Music Marathon on Saturday, August 31, 2019, at PianoWorks from 12:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.  Detailed information can be found on our website.

​

(Respectfully Submitted by Kimber Kwiatkowski)

On Thursday morning, August 1, 2019, we met for our monthly Musicale at the home of Utako Tanigawa and Steven Bennett, where they welcomed us to their beautiful home.  There were 10 GMG members who performed and 9 other members and guests who attended this musicale.

Our program began with Leanne playing the Brahms Sonata No. 1 for Clarinet accompanied by Janet Yao on piano.  The next three performers played Tchaikovsky’s February as a piano duet, April, and June with flute and piano.  We enjoyed more piano by Rachmaninoff and Ravel. The Mozart Concerto No. 23 1stMovement was played by Utako and Julie on two pianos.  Finally, Ruth and Julie played and sang an amazing Cat Duet. Yes, you would have thought those kitties were there in the room with us. The entire program follows.  It was a very enjoyable Musicale.  

Program

1. Leanne Manning and Janet Yao / Brahms   Sonata No 1 1st movement

2. Anna Armstrong and Janet Yao / Tchaikovsky   February (duet)

3. Judy Manganiello / Tchaikovsky   April

4. Chen Pan and Janet Yao / Tchaikovsky   June (Flute)

5. Annette Russo / Rachmaninoff   Vocalise Op. 34, No14

6. Ed Ewing / Ravel    Prelude, Le Tombeau de Couperin

7. UtakoTanigawa and Julie Woodall / Mozart    Concerto No.23 1st movement

8. Ruth Purcell with Julie Woodall / Rossini   Cat Duet – Piano and Vocal

9. Abbie Hattauer    Listener 

10. Rob Busey   Listener

11. Joe Chapman   Listener (Professor at UNG)

12. Joanna or Arthur   Listener   Audience, Dawson Chorale

13. Carole Kennedy   Listener   Audience, Dawson Chorale

14. Virgil Kennedy   Listener   Audience, Dawson Chorale

15. Rory Berg   Listener   Abbie’s granddaughter

16. Dr. Vernessa Phan   Listener   Ed’s friend

17. Steven Bennett   Listener

Our luncheon was served as a buffet where we eagerly tried the gourmet dishes prepared for us by Utako and Steven.  The meal began with Camembert Cheese, Yellow and Red Pepper Salad with cheese and Tofu and Okura Salad. We enjoyed the following side dishes: Ratatouille, Cucumber and Mandarin Orange Sushi, Potato Gratin, and Rosemary Bread, with Roasted Pork.  Dessert followed with Chocolate Cake, Zucchini Cake, and Tiramisu. Coffee and a variety of teas accompanied our meal.  We thank Steven for the fresh vegetables came from his garden.  Thank you Utako and Steven for the preparing and serving this delicious luncheon, hosting this Musicale, and your warm hospitality. 

Home Musicales are special gatherings where we share our gifts of musical expression. We are continually inspired and encouraged by others in the group to achieve our best. 

There are many opportunities to participate in GMG events.  A GMG Music Marathon will be held on Saturday, August 31stat PianoWorks in Duluth from 12-4:30pm.  Also, the Spivey Hall Concert will be held on Sunday September 15th  from 3-5:30pm.  We encourage you to be a part of GMG.  Check out these events and many more on the website:  mygmg.org 

(Respectfully Submitted:  Annette Russo)

Saturday afternoon, July 27, we gathered at Hawk Music Academy in Vickery Village, in Cumming.  We want to thank Dr. Eric Hawk and Dr. Dawn Dalangin Hawk for their hospitality at Hawk Music Academy.  Nine of the  GMG members attended this musicale.

We were treated to a variety of performances.  A new ensemble performed Elegie with a beautiful combination of voice, clarinet, and piano. Judy shared some highlights of her week at Peabody Conservatory Music Camp.  We enjoyed an afternoon of piano, clarinet, and vocal performances. You may continue reading the program details below.  Thank you all for sharing your wonderful musical contributions.

1. Shoko Tanaka / Debussy   Estamps III, Jardins sous la pluie

2. Robin Engleman w/ Shoko Tanaka / Schmann   An die musik

                                                                   Quilter   Love’s Philosophy

3. Leanne Manning w/ Shoko Tanaka / Debussy   Premier Rhapsody

4. Utako Tanigawa / Shubert   Impromptu Op. 90 No. 2

5. Robin Engleman, Leanne Manning, and Kimber Kwiatkowski / Massanet   Elegie

6. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Gershwin   Preludes

7. Susan Tanguy / Hardy   The Homecoming

8. Judy Manganiello / Mary Leaf   Rhapsody in G Minor

                                      Chopin   Waltz in D flat Major, Op. 64 No. 1

9. Annette Russo w/Robin Engleman / Schumann-Liszt  Widmung

10. Abbie Hattauer / Johann Strauss   Chacun a son gout

11. Steven Bennett (Listener)

Our tradition is to enjoy some light refreshments after performing, and this musicale was no exception.   All of us love to hear the progress of each performer from Musicales to Concerts.  It’s a remarkable experience.  Thank you all for your continued dedication to your work with GMG, your love of music, and your willingness to share the beauty of music with others.

​

(Respectfully Submitted:  Annette Russo)

Six members of the Georgia Musicale Group met at PianoWorks in Duluth at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 16, 2019.  

Utako, GMG’s founder and president, welcomed this small but mighty group and reviewed several items including plans for this year’s auction on 8/31 and how to secure advance tickets for Spivey Hall.  The morning’s limited group of performers allowed for an even more relaxed atmosphere and provided an opportunity for members to share sights into their instruments and their recent participation in competitions. It was a fascinating morning on many levels. 

After everyone had performed prepared selections (as listed below) several members took the “stage” again and shared more music by Tchaikovsky, as well as two pieces each by Rachmaninoff and Scriabin and a selection by Chopin.   

​

Asa J Williams                             Tchaikovsky’s March, from The Seasons, Op 37b

Leanne Manning/Pam Martin    Schumann’s Fantasy Pieces

Abbie Hattauer/Asa J Williams  Camille Saint-Saens’ Mon cœur s'ouvre à ta voix

Utako Tanigawa                           Haydn’s Sonata job:xvi 46

Ed Ewing                                      Ravel’s Prelude, Le Tombeau de Couperin

When the performances were complete PianoWorks Office Manager, Linda Eads, snapped our group photo. Members lingered over our breakfast treats and dispersed shortly thereafter.  

GMG is most grateful to Don Bennett and the entire staff at PianoWorks – Duluth for generously providing their recital hall every month for these events.  They are unfailingly accommodating – moving chairs and serving tables and, of course, providing amazing instruments for our members use and everyone’s enjoyment.

​

Next month’s PianoWorks – Duluth Musicale will be held on Tuesday, August 20thbeginning at 10 a.m.  Our second annual Music Marathon will again be held at PianoWorks on Saturday, August 31stfrom noon until 4:30 p.m. Full details are on the GMG website at www.mygmg.org.

(Respectfully submitted by Abbie Hattauer)

Georgia Musicale Group member Sabine Walsh welcomed 15 (!) GMG performers to her lovely home at 10 o’clock Thursday morning on July 11, 2019 for the group’s monthly Home Musicale. 

Several items were covered before the music began: performers’ comments on the July 9th concert at the University of North Georgia, information about Tom Slavicek’s donation for our upcoming auction on 8/31, a review of GMG’s updated Performers’ Rules and information about ticket availability for Spivey Hall. 

And then the music began!  Nearly a dozen composers were represented in solos and duos for piano, clarinet, flute and voice. The full program of music is listed below. 

Tom Slavicek                                                  Chopin’s Prelude op. 28 No. 13, Mazurka Op. 10 No. 1

Chen Pan                                                        Steckmest’s Fantasie "On wings of song" Op.17 No.1

Sabine Walsh                                                 Yiruma’s River Flows in You

Utako Tanigawa                                             Schumann-Liszt’s Widmung

Annette Russo                                               Rubinstein’s Kamennoi-Ostrow

Anna Armstrong/Janet Yao                         Chopin/Balakirev’s Suite - 1st and 3rd movements

Abbie Hattauer/Asa J Williams                   Camille Saint-Saens’s Mon coeur s'ouvre ta voix

Asa J Williams                                               Tchaikovsky’s October, from The Seasons, op 37a

Leanne Manning/Janet Yao                         Brahms’ Sonata No 1 4th movement

Kimber Kwiatkowski                                     Gershwin’s Preludes

Ed Ewing                                                        Ravel’s Menuet

Robin Engleman/Kimber Kwiatkowski      Chopin’s Prelude in C Minor (Op. 28, no. 20); Christ be with me!

Rob Busey                                                      Chopin’s Prelude

Julie Woodall                                                 Chopin’s Scherzo, Op. 39(partial)

​

Lunch for all featured Sabine’s delicious French chicken/onion casserole and was surrounded by various side dishes and desserts prepared by members. Conversation ensued and several late-leaving members were treated to brief piano performances by Sabine’s son and nephew – an unexpected bonus. All in all, a delightful morning filled with music and fellowship.  Many thanks to Sabine for her gracious hospitality.  

Our next Home Musicale will be held on Thursday, August 1, 2019 at Utako’s home (a change in venue).

​

(Respectfully submitted by Abbie Hattauer)

Our latest musicale on July 6 was the usual lovely affair, due, in part, to the venue at the new Hawk Music Academy facility. Many thanks to Drs. Dawn Dalangin Hawk and Eric Hawk for their generosity and to GMG Board Member Shoko Tanaka for coordinating the logistics to open, set up and clean up for this event.  A full complement of 14 performers nearly filled the intimately sized performance hall, including three singers and Sam Smith, our newest member.  A complete listing of all performers and their selections follows.

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Shoko Tanaka / Debussy   Jardins sous la pluie

Leanne Manning with Shoko / Debussy   Premiere Rhapsodie

Abbie Hattauer with Asa / Camille Saint-Saens   Mon coeur s'ouvre a ta voix

Robin, Kimber & Leanne / Massanet   Elegie

Annette Russo with Robin / Donaudy   O del mio amato ben

Fuling Chiang with Robin / Donizetti   Una furtiva lagrima

                                              Tosti   La Serenata

Utako Tanigawa / Haydn   Sonata Hob:xvi 46

Sam Smith / Beethoven   Piano Sonata op 26 - Scherzo

Judy Manganiello / Chopin   Waltz in D flat Major

Kimber Kwiatkowski / Brahms   Rhapsody Op. 79 No. 2

Asa J Williams / Tchaikovsky   The Seasons, Op 37a, August

Pam Martin and Kristi Helfen / Dvorak   #1,6 From the Bohemian Forest, Op. 68

Robin Engleman with Kimber / Barber   Must the Winter Come So Soon

Robin Engleman with Shoko / Quilter   Love’s Philosophy

GMG will return to the Hawk Music Academy at 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2019 for another Musicale. Information about many GMG special program events, and, of course, our wonderful annual concert at Spivey Hall on September 15 can be found on Georgia Musicale Group’s website at www.mygmg.org.  

(Respectfully submitted by Rob Busey)

Seven members of the Georgia Musicale Group met at PianoWorks in Duluth at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2019.  These six performers and one listener (so glad you could join us Sharon – we have missed you!) were joined by three (!) guests . . . Sun Ely, a friend of Asa; Barbara Robinson, a friend of Kimber; and Sam Smith, who had heard Utako play at a home musicale several years ago and who traveled over an hour to join us!  What a wonderful way to start our gathering!  

Utako, GMG’s founder and president, is currently a competitor at the 2019 Piano Texas Festival so Abbie welcomed all to this monthly Musicale. Asa started us off with works by two Russian composers.  A complete listing of performers and their selections follows:

​

Asa J Williams                Tchaikovsky          The Seasons, Op 37a, March

Asa J Williams                Tchaikovsky          The Seasons, Op 37a, August

Asa J Williams                Kabalevsky           Sonata No. 3 in F, Op. 46, 1st movement

Leanne Manning             Melvin Solomon    The Spanish Dancer

Leanne Manning             Joseph Horovitz    Two Majorcan Pieces

Kimber Kwiatkowski       "        "

Nancy Dunn                           Beethoven            Sonata #15, 1st movement

Jimmy Baskeville            Brahms                Rhapsody #2

Jimmy Baskeville            Brahms                Rhapsody #3                  

Ed Ewing                       Bach                    Prelude, English Suite II

Ed Ewing                       Ravel                   Prelude, Le Tombeau d C

Ed Ewing                       Ravel                   Menuet, Le Tombeau d C

Abbie Hattauer               Massenet              Meditation (piano solo)

When the performances were completed, we gathered for our group photo (many thanks to Asa and Sun for facilitating this task) and then enjoyed greeting old friends (and new!) over breakfast treats donated by members and organized by Jimmy -- a great team effort!  

GMG is most grateful to Don Bennett and the entire staff at PianoWorks – Duluth for generously providing their recital hall every month for these events.  They are unfailingly accommodating – moving chairs and serving tables and, of course, providing amazing instruments for our members use and everyone’s enjoyment.

Next month’s PianoWorks – Duluth Musicale will be held on Tuesday, July 16th beginning at 10 a.m.  

​

Update on 6/20/2019 –Sam Smith (who had already become a GMG member!) will be joining us on July 6 at our Musicale at Hawk Music Academy – Welcome aboard, Sam!

​

(Respectfully submitted by Abbie Hattauer)

Georgia Musicale Group board member Ed Ewing welcomed 13 GMG members to his unique home at 10 o’clock Thursday morning on June 6, 2019 for the group’s monthly Home Musicale. Before the music began GMG’s president and founder, Utako Tanigawa, reviewed recent changes and additions to the organization’s 2019 Performer Rules.  She also encouraged all to attend several upcoming events including a joint concert at University of North Georgia featuring Dr. Joe Chapman (a GMG member), college students and GMG members.

A full program of music then began as listed below. 

Janet Yao                               Granados                   Spanish Dances, Op. 37 No.2

Chen Pan                                Handel                        Sonata in C Major, Op. 1 No.7

Abbie Hattauer                      Jules Massenet           Meditation 

Utako Tanigawa                     Scarlatti                       L. 449 & L. 415 or Rameau Sarabande

Leanne Manning/Janet YaoBrahms                       Clarinet Sonata No. 2, 2nd Movement

Nancy Dunn                          Beethoven                  Sonata #15, 1st movement

Rob Busey                              Chopin                       Prelude in B minor

Kimber Kwiatkowski                       Gershwin                   Preludes I and II

Judy Manganiello                  Yurima                       River Flows In You

Pam Martin/Kristi Helfen    DeFalla                       La Vida Breve Danza #1

Following our group photo (thank you Steven!), Ed took everyone on a tour of his home which is filled with his original artwork and wood furniture.  Antique fossils (millions of years old) and other artifacts from Ed’s worldwide travels were also included in our tour.  

A potluck lunch followed at multiple dining tables and Ed’s homemade individual chocolate mousse confections rounded-out a wonderful morning of music and fellowship. Many thanks to Ed for his hospitality. 

Our next Home Musicale will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2019 at Sabine Walsh’s home.  

​

(Respectfully submitted, Abbie Hattauer)

Eighteen GMG members assembled on May 21st at 10:00 at PianoWorks for an extended time of musical selections. Utako graciously welcomed the attendees and we thus began a delightful morning with a wide array of beautiful pieces. We had some fabulous solo performances as well as several collaborative performances featuring Leanne Manning, Julie Woodall, Leah Frick, Maggie Frick, Abbie Hattauer, Anna Armstrong, Pam Martin, Kristin Helfen and Monique Arar.

​

Kimber Kwiatkowski / Gershwin   Prelude II (Blue Lullaby) (1927)

Jeni Kong / J.S.Bach   Partita in C minior

                    Chopin   Etude Op.10 no. 12

Asa J Williams / Rachmaninov   Prelude in c# minor

Leanne Manning & Julie Woodall / Brahms   Sonata No. 2, 3rd and 4th movements

Leah Frick / A. Dvorak   Humoresque

Maggie Frick / Mozart   Sonata K 333 3rd mov.

Julie Woodall / Grieg   Sonata in e minor, mv't 2

Ed Ewing / Ravel   Menuet

Anna Armstrong / Richard Rodgers   Spring Is Here

Judy Manganiello / Tchaikovsky   April

Nancy Dunn / Beethoven   Sonata #15, 1st mov.

Sabine Walsh / J.S. Bach   Menuet and Trio in B Minor 

                           Arnold   Sonata in D Major, Op.12, No. 3; 1st Mvt.

                           Schubert   Scherzo in Bb Major D 593 No. 1

                           N. Ikeda   Shooting Stars in Summer

Abbie Hattauer with Anna Armstrong / Michel Legrand   What are you doing the rest of your life?

Pam Martin & Kristi Helfen / Dvorak   From the Bohemian Forest

                                                                 Silent Woods, From Troubled Times

Utako Tanigawa & Julie / Mozart    Concerto No.23 1st movt.

Jimmy Baskerville / Jimmy   Improvisation

Monique Arar & Julie / Grieg   Piano Concerto mvt.1

The GMG would like to warmly thank Don Bennett, manager at PianoWorks, for hosting us.  Their friendly staff and comfortable facilities provided a stellar atmosphere for us to perform in. We would also like to give a shout out to Jimmy for his kind labors in organizing our refreshments.      

The next PianoWorks musicale is scheduled to take place Tuesday, June 18, 2019 and begins at 10 am.

​

(Respectfully submitted by Leah Frick)

More than 40 music lovers gathered in the Barbara Kirby Recital Hall at Steinway Piano Galleries in Alpharetta on Sunday afternoon for a special concert featuring Georgia Musicale Group’s founder and president, Dr. Utako Tanigawa and four GMG members. Director of Education, Tom Olson, welcomed the audience and explained about the specials of Steinway Piano.

Utako’s repertoire featured selections by Haydn, Chopin, Beethoven and Mozart. The four GMG members rounded out the program with a vocal selection from Les Mis, piano solos by Debussy and Grieg and a Brahms concerto featuring clarinet and piano.  A complete program listing follows:  

​

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Sonata in E-flat major hob:xvi 46                                                                      Joseph Haydn (1732 – 1809)   

Nocturne in E-flat major Op. 55 No2                                                             Frédéric Chopin (1810 – 1849)

Scherzo in b-flat minor No. 2 Op. 31                                                             Frédéric Chopin (1810 – 1849)

Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) & Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

 "I Dreamed a Dream"                                                                             Claude-Michel Schönberg (1944 - ) 

Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

Estampes 1. Pagodes                                                                                    Claude Debussy (1862 – 1918)   

Julie Woodall (Piano)

Sonata in e minor                                                                                              Edvard Grieg (1843 – 1907)

I. Allegro moderato

II. Andante molto

Leanne Manning (Clarinet) and Julie Woodall (Piano)

Sonata No. 2 for Clarinet and Piano in E-flat, Op.120                                            Johannes Brahms (1833 – 1897)

III. Andante con moto

IV. Allegro

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Sonata in C major hob: xvi 50 1st mvt.                                                                          Joseph Haydn (1732 – 1809)

Nocturne in D-flat major, Op. 27 No2                                                                      Frédéric Chopin (1810 – 1849)

Sonata in C major  Op. 53 1st movt. Allegro                                       Ludwig Van Beethoven (1775 – 1827)     

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)  and Julie Woodall (Piano)

Piano Concerto in A major No.23  1st movt. Allegro                    Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756 – 1791)

Audience members were enthusiastic in their response to the program and appreciative that GMG provides numerous free concerts throughout the year and at many different venues. “Providing joyful opportunities for people of all ages to perform and listen to live music is our mission,” stated Dr. Tanigawa. “We are all kindred spirits who support and encourage each other.”

GMG is most grateful to President and CEO Chris Syllaba; Director of Education, Tom Olson; Vice President, Steve Miller and the entire staff at Steinway Piano Galleries for generously providing their recital hall for concerts throughout the year.    They are unfailingly accommodating – moving chairs and serving tables and, of course, providing amazing instruments for our members’ use and everyone’s enjoyment.

​

(Respectfully submitted by Abbie Hattauer)

A special musicale was held Saturday, May 4, 2019, at the beautiful home of Dr. Jeni Kong.  It was an unpredictable day weather-wise but very predictable music-wise as all of the music was delightful.  While the number of attendees was small, the enthusiasm was great and made for a wonderful way to spend a Saturday afternoon/evening.  The program, which included piano solos, clarinet solo, clarinet with piano accompaniment, and vocalist with piano accompaniment, is shown below:

​

Utako Tanigawa / Beethoven   Op. 53 1st movt.

                               Chopin   Scherzo No2

Kimber Kwiatkowski / Chopin   Impromptu Op. 29

Jeni Kong / Scarlatti   Sonata No.22 in D major

                     Chopin   Etude Op.10 No. 12

                     Liszt   La Campanella

Leanne Manning and Kimber / Xavier Lefevre   Allegro moderato

Sabine Walsh / Schubert   Scherzo in Bb Major D 593 No. 1

                           Arnold   Sonata in D Major, Op.12, No. 3; 1st Mvt.

                           Heller   Etude in D Minor

                           Bürgmuller   The Storm 

                           Ikeda   Shooting Stars in Summer

                           Bach   Menuet and Trio in B Minor

Robin Engleman / Handel   Lascia ch’io pianga 

                                Gounod   Faites-lui mes aveux

Rob Busey   "Supporter"

Steven Bennett   Listener

Everyone enjoyed sushi and other epicurean delights along with very informative and entertaining conversation.

Many thanks to Dr. Jeni Kong and her family for hosting this special musicale.

Please join us at our next concert at Steinway Piano Galleries in Alpharetta on Sunday, May 19, 2019, at 3:00 p.m. featuring Dr. Utako Tanigawa and GMG friends.

On a beautiful May morning, we met at the home of Kimber Kwiatkowski.  Abbie was there to greet us as we arrived.  There were 14 GMG members who attended this musicale.

Kimber opened the program with the Chopin Impromptu followed by Leanne  playing the Lefevre Clarinet Sonata.   Robin serenaded us with Handel’s Lascia chio pianga.  The Handel flute Sonata performed by Janet and Chen was very soothing .  Many of our members are perfecting various pieces, and we are enjoying the progress each one is making.  Sabine, we enjoyed that Heller Etude in D Minor.  Janet and Anna spiced up the program with some Jazz Duets.  Ed finished off with the Beatles,  “And I Love Her”.  We might just sing along next time.

​

1 Kimber Kwiatkowski / Chopin   Impromptu 51

2. Leanne Manning with Kimber / Xavier Lefevre   Sonata Allegro Moderato

3. Robin Engleman with Kimber / Handel   Lascia chio pianga

4. Annette Russo with Julie / Grieg   I Love Thee

5. Chen Pan / Handel   Sonata in G minor Op. 1 No. 2

6. Janet Yao / Grieg    Lyric Piece Op. 12 No. 1Arietta

                                     Lyric Piece Op.71 No.7 Remembrances

                                     Lyric Piece Op.38 No.7 Waltz

                                     Lyric Piece Op.12 No.4 Elfin- Dance

7. Abbie Hattauer / Massenet   Meditation

8. Sabine Walsh / Heller   Etude in D Minor

                               Shubert   Scherzo in B Flat Major

9. Jimmy Baskerville / Shubert   Impromptu Op.90 No. 2

10. Judy Manganiello / Leaf   Rhapsody in G Minor

11. Anna Armstrong with Janet / Lucia Clarke   Jazz Duets

12. Ed Ewing / The Beatles   And I Love Her

Following the performance, we always enjoy a wonderful luncheon.  A buffet of Chicken Salad, BBQ Baked Chicken, Quiche, Vegetable Casserole, Salad, Fresh Fruit, Lemon Blueberry Cake, Lemon Cake, and Ice Cream for dessert.  Utako surprised us with birthday cards, cake, and candles for the May birthdays.  Happy Birthday Robin and Annette.

 While the food is delicious, there is great fellowship and conversation around the table.  Each Musicale reinforces the spirit of the organization where the members support and encourage each other with their goals as musicians. 

Kimber, thank you for welcoming us into your home.  We all enjoyed your hospitality at this musicale.  Please join us for the next Home Musicale at the home of Ed Ewing on June 6, beginning at 10 a.m.

​

(Respectfully Submitted:  Annette Russo)

Friday afternoon, April 26, we gathered at Hawk Music Academy in Vickery Village, in Cumming.  We want to thank Dr. Eric Hawk and Dr. Dawn Dalangin Hawk for welcoming GMG to their music academy.  This was the first musicale at this location, and there will be more to follow.  Nine of the  GMG members attended as well as a few guests. 

We began the musicale with Abbie singing “Connais-tu le pays”, beautifully.    We thoroughly enjoyed the Brahms Sonata #2 for clarinet by Leanne and Julie accompanying on piano.  Many other wonderful piano pieces were performed that afternoon.  Utako amazed us with the Chopin Scherzo from memory, and Kimber effortlessly performed the Impromptu by Chopin.   The program was great as you will see below.  Thank you all for sharing your wonderful musical contributions to this musicale.

1. Abbie Hattauer with Kimber / Ambroise Thomas   Connais-tu le pays

2. Judy Manganiello / Mary Leaf   Rhapsody in G Minor

3. Annette Russo with Julie / Donaudy   O del mio amato ben

4. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Chopin   Impromptu Op. 29

5. Utako Tanigawa / Chopin   Scherzo No. 2

6. Leanne Manning with Julie Woodall / Brahms   Clarinet Sonata #2 in E-flat, Op.120, 1st and 2nd movements

7. Shoko Tanaka / Debussy   Estamps III, Jardins sous la pluie

8. Sabine Walsh / Schubert   Scherzo in Bb Major D 593 No. 1

                               Arnold   Sonata in D major, Op. 12, No. 3; 1st Movement

                               Bach   Menuet and Trio in B Minor

​

Dawn Dalangin Hawk / Listener

Susan Bush / Listener

Tanya Krislasky / Listener

After performing, we enjoyed some light refreshments as we socialized with each other.  At the musicale, we appreciate the progress each one has made with their respective pieces.  Many works in progress become concert performances.  Thank you all for your continued dedication to your work with GMG, your love of music, and your willingness to share the beauty of music with others.

We hope to see you at the next Home Musicale at the home of Kimber Kwiatkowski on May 2, beginning at 10 a.m.

​

(Respectfully Submitted by Annette Russo)

Fifteen GMG members and one guest gathered together on April 16th 10:00am at PianoWorks for a morning of music and fellowship. Utako welcomed the attendees and we sat back to enjoy a series of excellent performances. Several performers used this musicale as an opportunity to test their memory and appreciated the grace and encouragement of the audience as they did so. Sabine Walsh played the four pieces she will be performing at her upcoming Royal Conservatory examination. Best of luck, Sabine!

​

Utako Tanigawa / Chopin   Scherzo No.2

Asa J Williams / Beethoven   Sonata in C Major, Op. 2, No. 3; 1st mvt.

Sabine Walsh / J.S. Bach   Menuet and Trio in B Minor

                           Schubert   Scherzo in Bb Major D 593 No. 1

                           Arnold   Sonata in D Major, Op.12, No. 3; 1st mvt.

                           Ikeda   Shooting Stars in Summer

Abbie Hattauer / Amboise Thomas   Connais-tu le pays

Jimmy Baskerville / Liszt   Lieberstraum #3

Anna Armstrong / Debussy   Clair de Lune

Monique Arar & Julie / Grieg   Piano Concerto 1st mvt.

Maggie Frick / Chopin   Etude Op. 25 No. 7

Ed Ewing / Ravel   Menuet

Leah Frick / J.S. Bach   Gavotte in G Minor

Leanne Manning & Julie Woodall / Brahms   Sonata No. 2, 2nd mvt.

Kimber Kwiatkowski / Chopin   Impromptu Op. 51

Robin Engleman & Kimber / Handel   Lascia chio pianga

The GMG would like to warmly thank Sam Bennett and the staff at PianoWorks for allowing us to use their superb facilities.

The next PianoWorks musicale is scheduled to take place on May 21st at 10:00am.

​

(Respectfully submitted by Maggie Frick)

Seven GMG performers and more than twenty people of audience gathered in Barbara Kirby Recital Hall at Steinway Piano Galleries in Alpharetta at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday April 7th.

It was a special concert for GMG to feature Dr. Jeni Kong, one of GMG patrons who has remarkable achievements in several competitions locally and nationally. Her latest achievement was winning 2nd place at the Washington International Piano Competition for Amateur Pianists which was held in Washington D.C. in August 2018.

In the first half of concert, six members from GMG have brightened the concert hall with their performance including piano solo, vocal, clarinet and violin. Everyone enjoyed variety of music with different instruments. After the first half, there was an intermission where people had delicious foods and drinks donated by Dr. Jeni Kong (Many thanks to Jeni!) and pleasant conversations.

In the second half of the concert, audience was treated with magnificent performance by Dr. Jeni Kong. She played three movements from Bach Partita in C minor, BWV 826, two pieces from Chopin Mazurkas, Mendelssohn’s variations, and “La Campanella” by Franz Listz with arrangement by Busoni. The complete program is shown below.

Her performance was absolutely outstanding and amazed the whole audience to let them do standing ovation at the end.  At the last of concert, GMG president, Dr. Utako Tanigawa brought a beautiful flower and presented to Dr. Jeni Kong. All performers and audience got together in front of the stage and took picture.

Program                 

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Sonata in A flat major, Hob:xvi 46                                                              Joseph Haydn (1732 – 1809) 

Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) & Anna Armstrong (Piano)

What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?                                             Michel Legrand (1932 – 2019)

Leanne Manning (Clarinet) & Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

Introduction, Theme and Variations                                             Gioachino Rossini (1792 – 1868)

Barry Roseman (Violin) & Anna Armstrong (Piano)

                  Sonata IV in D major                                                                             George Handel (1685 – 1759)

Intermission

Jeni Kong (Piano)

Partita in C minor, BWV 826                                                                                           J.S. Bach(1685 – 1750)

Movements: Sarabande, Rondeau, Capriccio

Mazurkas Op.24                                                                                                    Frederic Chopin (1810 – 1849)

No. 2  & No.4

Variations serieuses Op 54                                                                          Felix Mendelssohn(1809 – 1947)

Paganini Etude S. 161 No. 3 “La Campanella”                                               Franz Liszt (1811 – 1886)

                                                                                                                                          Ferruccio Busoni (1866 – 1924)

The Georgia Musicale Group is grateful for Mr. Tom Olsen and all staff at Steinway Piano Galleries that they always support us generously in success of the concert. The next GMG concert at Steinway Piano Galleries will be held on May 19th 2019 at 3p.m. to feature Dr. Utako Tanigawa’s for ther semi solo concert. More information is available at website: mygmg.org

(Respectfully Submitted by Shoko Tanaka)

Thursday morning, April 4, we gathered at the lovely home of Judy Mangianello.  Judy and Abbie welcomed us as we arrived.  There were 18 GMG members and guests who attended this musicale.    

Our Musicale began with Judy beautifully playing “April” in April.  We were also pleased to have Nico join us and play “La Campanella” as he was on Spring Break.  Music flowed gracefully from the fingers of one performer to the next, and we enjoyed each composition and composer.  The flute, clarinet, and vocal solos added a wonderful variety of music to our program.  We appreciate the dedication and contributions of each performer.

1 Judy Manganiello / Tchaikovsky   April

2 Annette Russo / Rubinstein   Kamennoi Ostrow Op. 10 No. 22(2 pgs)

3 Kimber Kwiatkowski / Chopin   Impromptu Op. 29 No. 1

4 Tom Slavicek / Grieg   Notturno Op.54 no.4

5 Kristi Helfen & Pam Martin / Dvorak   In the Spinning Room

6 Asa J Williams / Beethoven   Sonata Op. 2, No. 3, Mvmt 3

7 Janet Yao / Bach   Fantasia in c minor, BWV 906

8 Nico Brett / Liszt   La Campanella

9 Monique Arar / Debussy   Pour le piano - Prelude

10 Julie Woodall / Grieg   Sonata in eminor, mov't 3

11 Jimmy Baskerville / Schubert   Impromptu 90.2

12 Utako Tanigawa / Chopin   Nocturne Op. 27 No.2

13 Leanne Manning / Brahms   Clarinet Sonata In F Minor Op. 120 No. 1, mov.3

14 Chen Pan / Bach   Sonata in E-flat Major BWV 1031, mov.1

15 Abbie Hattauer / Ambroise Thomas   Connais tu le pays with Kimber Kwiatkowski

A delicious buffet luncheon was prepared by the GMG participants.  We enjoyed vegetable lasagna as the main entrée, with pineapple casserole, a 6 grain dish, salads, and raw vegetables to compliment the meal.  There was a Cherry Brandy Liqueur Cake and Magic Cookie bars to complete the meal.

The Musicales are an event where we learn something new or hear a musical composition that we have not heard before.  It is evident that the group is having a great time together around the table as the conversation is nonstop learning from and about each other.

We hope to see you at the next Home Musicale at the home of Kimber Kwiatkowski  on May 2, beginning at 10 a.m.

​

(Respectfully Submitted by: Annette Russo)

The Musicale was held on a beautiful Saturday afternoon, March 30, 2019.  We met at the home of Utako Tanigawa and Steven Bennett, where they welcomed us to their beautiful home.  There were 18 GMG members and guests who attended this musicale.

The performances were spectacular.  Julie and Leanne opened the program with the Brahms Sonata No. 2, Op.120, Movements 1 and 2 for clarinet solo and piano.  We were also treated to 3 vocalists. Virginia made her debut with us on Saturday.  Thank you, Virginia for sharing your beautiful voice with us. Utako and Julie had 4 hands on the piano for the Mozart Concerto No. 23. The finale was the Grieg Concerto in A minor, Movement 1 for 2 pianos with Monique and Julie.  It was an awesome first performance ladies.  The entire program follows.  It was an amazing concert.  Bravo Everyone!

​

Program

1 Leanne Manning & Julie Woodall / Brahms   Sonata No. 2, Op. 120 Mvts 1 &2

2 Asa J Williams / Chopin   Etude, Op. 10, No. 3

3 Kimber Kwiatkowski / Chopin   Impromptu Op. 29 No.1

4 Utako Tanigawa / Chopin   Scherzo No2

5 Julie Woodall / Grieg   Sonata in e minor

6 Utako Tanigawa & Julie Woodall / Mozart   K,521 in C 1st mvt.

7 Abbie Hattauer / Ambroise Thomas   Connais-tu le pays with Kimber

8 Fuling Chiang w/ Kimber / Bononcini   Per la gloria d'adorarvi

   Fuling Chiang w/ Kimber / Bach/Gounod   Ave Maria

9 Virginia Mann w/ Kimber / A. Caldara   Sebben crudele

   Virginia Mann w/ Kimber  / O Mio Babbino

10 Utako Tanigawa & Julie Woodall / Mozart   Concerto No.23 mvt.1

11 Monique Arar & Julie Woodall / Grieg   Concerto in A min, mvt. 1

​

The dining room table was covered with an array of delicious Hors D’oeuvres and Sweets.  Utako invited us to partake of her fine culinary delights.  We enjoyed Vegetable Sushi, Assorted Cheeses, Italian Sausage, Smoked Salmon, Ham and Vegetable Quiche, Fruit, Nuts, Chocolate Covered Apricots, and Tiramisu to name a few.  Of course, we finished off with Coffee, Tea, Red, and White Wines.  Thank you Utako and Steven for the preparing and serving this fine buffet, hosting this Musicale, and welcoming us into your home. 

Home Musicales are special gatherings where we share our gifts of musical expression, develop new friendships, and strengthen those bonds of friendship we already enjoy.     

Utako reviewed upcoming events including Spivey Hall in September and Carnegie Hall next summer, 2020.  Utako continues to inspire us to participate in monthly GMG events as well as these special events.

Please join us for the next Home Musicale at the home of Judy Manganiello  on April 4, beginning at 10 a.m.

​

(Respectfully Submitted by:  Annette Russo)

The Johns Creek UMC Gathering Room was the site for this joint concert by members of the GMG and the Johns Creek Chorale.  Choral music was a special emphasis with beautiful results.

There were two particularly special aspects of the concert. 

One, Jacqueline Putnam, Soprano, and Allen Baston, Piano, performed songs by Richard Strauss, Samuel Barber, and W. A. Mozart. 

The second surprise was the Steinway concert grand in the room, ready for the Chopin Society’s piano recital scheduled for the next day.  As the tuner finished his work, he gave approval for us to use it.  All the musicians appreciated having a superb instrument to perform with.

The remainder of the program by GMG members consisted of 4 piano solos, 2 vocalists, and a Clarinet and piano Sonata by J. Brahms. The variety of repertoire and instruments was especially appreciated by the 21 people in attendance.

Refreshments were enjoyed and hearty conversation filled the lovely room.  Guests included Leanne Manning’s daughters, on break from school. 

The next GMG collaborative concert will be Dr. Jeni Kong and GMG Friend, on Sunday, April 7, 3 - 5 p.m. at Steinway Piano Galleries, 5950 North Point Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30022.

​

(Respectfully Submitted by: Nancy Dunn)

Eight GMG members gathered at PianoWorks – Duluth for the monthly 10 a.m. Tuesday morning Musicale on March 19, 2019. President and founder, Utako Tanigawa welcomed everyone and handed out a detailed report on recent GMG discussions concerning how to accommodate the increase number of members wishing to perform at Musicales and Concerts.  A copy of this report is included. 

The following selections were presented:

Abbie Hattauer (accompanied by Kimber Kwiatkowski) – Connais-tu le pays by Ambroise Thomas

Ed Ewing – Ravel’s Menuet (first half)

Nancy Dunn – Chopin’s Etude, Op. 10, No. 3

Kimber Kwiatkowski – Chopin’s Impromptu Op. 29, No. 1

Sabine Walsh – S. Arnold’s Sonata in D Major, Op. 12, No. 3, 1st movement and J. S. Bach’s Menuet and Trio in B Minor

Asa J Williams – Beethoven’s Sonata in C Major, Op. 2, No. 3, 3rd movement and Rachmaninoff’s Prelude, Op. 3, No. 2

Utako Tanigawa – Chopin’s Scherzo No. 2

Breakfast treats were enjoyed throughout the Musicale and members shared a few moments together chatting and sharing their love of music.

GMG is most grateful to Don Bennett and the entire staff at PianoWorks – Duluth for generously providing their recital hall every month for these events.  They are unfailingly accommodating – moving chairs and serving tables and, of course, providing amazing instruments for our members use and everyone’s enjoyment.

Next month’s PianoWorks – Duluth Musicale will be held on Tuesday, April 16th beginning at 10 a.m. 

​

(Respectfully Submitted by: Abbie Hattauer)

Abbie Hattauer sponsored our monthly musicale at her beautiful home on March 7. We all shared the excitement of her new piano that had arrived just three days before our gathering.  Eighteen of us including Asa Williams, our newest member enjoyed, playing and hearing her wonderful Yamaha C3 grand.  Utako confirmed the September date for our Spivey Hall concert, reminding participants that they need to sign up now, as our program is expected to fill quickly. Our exquisite luncheon was highlighted by several great dishes.  One of the advantages of our potluck fare is the unusual contributions from our members from other cultures, including French, Taiwanese and Japanese creations. Also, special contributions are made by our performing participants when they share facts related to their pieces and their composers.  We also like hearing how GMG has helped them achieve their musical goals and credentials, and we have helped them increase confidence in playing to an audience. We hope everyone will continue sharing with us at Judy Manganiello’s home musicale on April 4.  

Judy Manganiello / Rimsky-Korsakov   Young Prince and Princess (duet w/Nancy)

Abbie Hattauer / Strauss   Pizzicato Polka (duo piano w/Judy)

Sabine Walsh / J.S. Bach   Menuet and Trio in B Minor / S. Arnold   Sonata in D Major, op.12, no. 3; 1st Mvt.

Shoko Tanaka / Chopin   Ballade in A major Op.47 No.3

Rob Busey (Listener)

Utako Tanigawa / Haydn   Sonata Hob:xvi 46

Nancy Dunn / Chopin   Etude Op. 10, No. 3

Kimber Kwiatkowski / Brahms   Rhapsody Op. 79 No. 2

AnnetteRusso/Utako / Schumann/Liszt   Widmung

Ed Ewing / Ravel   Menuet (partial)

Robin Engleman with Kimber / Gluck   O del mio dolce ardor / A. Scarlatti   Gia il sole dal gange

Tom Slavicek / Chopin   Preludes 2, 9, 15

Asa J Williams / Chopin   Etude Op. 10, No. 3

Chen Pan / Bizet   Minuet from L'Arlésienne

Anna Armstrong & Janet Yao / David Karp   Slavic Tale

Julie Woodall / Grieg   Sonata in e minor, mv't 3

Jimmy Baskerville / Shubert   Impromptu 90.3

​

(Respectfully Submitted by: Rob Busey)

More than ten people gathered together on rainy afternoon on March 3rd, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. for the Georgia Musicale Group concert. It was held at Barbara Kirby Recital Hall at Steinway Piano Galleries in Alpharetta. It was small but mighty group and performers and audiences enjoyed variety of music from the Classical to Modern era.

Before concert begun, the director of Steinway Piano Galleries, Mr. Tom Olsen informed us about Steinway’s Junior Piano Competition that will be held in April 2019. The information can be found on the website: https://www.steinway.com/competition 

Our president, Dr. Utako Tanigawa welcomed the performers and audience. She explained about classical era before her performance and started the concert with Haydn Sonata. The complete program is listed below.

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Sonata in A flat major, Hob:xvi 46            Joseph Haydn (1732 – 1809)

Robin Engleman (Mezzo Soprano) and Shoko Tanaka (Piano)                                                                                                    

Voi, che sapete                                         Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791)

Robin Engleman (Mezzo Soprano) and Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

An die Musik                                            Franz Schubert (1797-1828)

Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) and Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

I Dreamed a Dream                                 Claude-Michel Schönberg (1944)

Judy Manganiello (Piano)

Rhapsody in G Minor                              Mary Leaf (1947)

Pompenette                                             Auguste Durand (1830 – 1909)

Asa J Williams (Piano)

Etude in A Flat Major Op. 25, No. 1        Frédéric Chopin (1810 – 1849)

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Widmung                                                  Robert Schumann (1810 – 1856) Transcribed by Franz Liszt (1811 – 1886)

Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

Ballade in A Flat Major, Op. 47, No. 3       Frédéric Chopin (1810 – 1849)

At the end, our new member, Asa J Williams added a nice spice to our program. He played Rachmaninoff Prelude with such a powerful sound and amazed everyone in the hall.

The GMG would like to thank Mr. Tom Olsen and all staff at Steinway Piano Galleries for their generous support for GMG. The next GMG musicale will be held at our Secretary, Abbie Hattauer’s house on Thursday March 7th (Sign-up is closed) and the next concert at Steinway Piano Galleries will be held on Sunday, April 7th.

We look forward to seeing you all there.

​

(Respectfully Submitted by: Shoko Tanaka)

The February Saturday Special Musicale was held February 23 at 3:00 p.m. at Piano Distributors in Marietta.  Several guests were in attendance as the members performed in a relaxed and casual atmosphere.  The program, which included piano solos, vocalists with piano accompaniment, and a vocal duet with piano accompaniment, is shown below:

Nico Brett / Liszt  La Campanella

Kimber Kwiatkowski / Mompou  Cancion y Danza No. 6

Utako Tanigawa / Schumann/Liszt  Widmung

Abbie Hattauer w/Robin Eagleman / Schonberg   I Dreamed a Dream

Robin Engleman & Kimber Kwiatkowski / Gounod   Faites-lui mes aveux from Faust

Robin Engleman & Kimber Kwiatkowski / Schubert  An Die Musik (To Music)

Fuling Chiang w/Robin / Giordani   Caro mio ben

Fuling Chiang w/Robin / Bononcini   Per la gloria d'adorarvi

Virginia Mann w/Robin / Caldara   Sebben, crudele

Virginia Mann w/Robin / Pergolesi   Se tu m’ami, se sospiri

Virginia & Robin (duet) / Smart   The Lord is My Shepherd

All enjoyed a toast and socializing after the performances.

Many thanks to Alex Merlo and the staff of Piano Distributors in Marietta for graciously allowing our use of their facilities for our musicales.

Please join us at our next concert on March 23 at 4:00 p.m. at Johns Creek United Methodist Church in collaboration with the Church.

​

(Respectfully Submitted by: Kimber Kwiatkowski)

Members of the Georgia Musicale Group gathered together on February 19th, 2019 at 10:00am for a morning of music and fellowship. It was held at PianoWorks’ lovely facility and was attended by 12 members. Utako welcomed the attendees and we henceforth enjoyed over an hour and a half of excellent music. This was Asa Williams’ first time performing at a PianoWorks Musicale, and he played a splendid rendition of Chopin’s Aeolian Harp Etude.

​

Maggie Frick/Mozart Sonata K.333 1st Mov.

Maggie Frick/Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 21 Book 1

Leah & Maggie Frick/Bach (Petzold) Minuet

Robin Engleman & Kimber Kwiatkowski/Gluck O del mio dolce ardor

Robin Engleman & Kimber Kwiatkowski/Gluck Che faro senza Euridice Recitative and Aria

Abbie Hattauer/Pam Asberry  In the Bleak Mid Winter

Nancy Dunn/Chopin Etude Op. 10 No. 3

Asa J Williams/Chopin Etude Op. 25, No. 1

Monique Arar  Brahms/Klavierstucke Op. 76 nos. 7&8

Julie Woodall/Grieg Sonata in e minor

Utako Tanigawa /Chopin Scherzo no2

Ed Ewing/Bach English Suite 2: Prelude

Jimmy Baskerville/Shubert Impromptu 90.2

Kimber Kwiatkowski/Brahms Rhapsody Op. 79 No. 2

​

The GMG would like to thank Sam Bennett and the PianoWorks staff for their generosity in allowing us to use their facilities. The next GMG event will take place at Steinway Piano Galleries on Sunday, March 3rd at 3:00pm. And we will be back at PianoWorks on Tuesday, March 19, 2019 beginning at 10 a.m. Please consider joining us for both events!

​

(Respectfully Submitted by: Maggie Frick)

Our monthly Home Musicale on February 7th brought us once again to Julie Woodall’s lovely home.  With over 15 attendees, it is clear that most of us look forward to an escape and welcome the drive to the beautiful north Georgia mountains. New attendees included Annette Russo and Don and Elaine Clark. Julie welcomed us, opening the program with the first movement of Grieg’s Sonata in E minor and for the next hour and a half the beautiful music listed below continued.  

1. Julie Woodall / Grieg  Sonata in e minor, 1st mov't

2. Janet Yao / Bach  Italian Concerto, 1st movement

3. Tom Slavick / Beethoven  Pathetique 2nd Mov / Chopin  Prelude 9 & 15

4. Annette Russo / Sibelius  Finlandia

5. Rob Busey / Chopin  Prelude in B Minor

6. Sabine Walsh / Bach; Ikeda Menuet & Trio in B m; Shooting Stars

7. Judy & Abbie / Strauss  Pizzicato Polka (4 hands)

8. Jimmy Baskerville / Shubert   Impromptu 90.2

9. Judy Manganiello / Mary Leaf  Rhapsody in G Minor

10. Kimber Kwiatkowski / Mompou  Cancion y Danza No. 6

11. Abbie Hattauer / Pam Asberry  In the Bleak Midwinter

12. Chen Pan / Prelude from Cello Suite  No. 1 in G Major by J. S. Bach

13. Utako Tanigawa / Rameau  L'Egyptienne / Schumann/Liszt  Widmung

Don and Elaine Clark

Listeners

As we finished our lunch featuring Julie’s delicious Brunswick Stew and wonderful side dishes, our seemingly tireless founder, Utako, shared entertaining experiences from her first Van Cliburn competition.  She reviewed upcoming events including the Carnegie Hall concert next year and shared information about the professionals who will grace us with master classes this year.  She also opened the topic of a possible competition of our own. Utako’s dedication is an inspiration to us all.

Our home musicales are wonderful venues of fellowship where we share our common passion and love of music in an atmosphere of warmth and encouragement.

Please join us for the next Home Musicale at the home of Abbie Hattauer on March 7th beginning at 10 a.m.

​

(Respectfully Submitted by: Rob Busey)

Seventeen people including eight GMG performers and their family and friends gathered for the special open house musicale at Johns Creek United Methodist Church on Saturday, January 26th 2019 at 6 p.m.. Performers and audience enjoyed the delicious foods and drinks that members brought before concert. Utako Tanigawa, GMG founder and President, greeted everyone and the program started with Judy Manganiello who played lovely piece, Rhapsody in G Minor by Leaf.  The whole program of the musicale is as below.

Judy Manganiello / Leaf   Rhapsody in G Minor

Nancy Dunn / Chopin   Etude, Op. 10, #3, A section

Asa J Williams / Chopin   Etude in A-Flat Major, Op. 25, No. 1

Kimber Kwiatkowski / Poulenc   Improvisation No. 15

Robin Engleman & Kimber Kwiatkowski / Schubert    An Die Musik (To Music)

Gounot   Faites-lui mes aveux from Faust

Shoko Tanaka / Bach   French Suite No.5 - Allemande

Debussy   Pagodes

Utako Tanigawa / Rameau   La Poule

Scarlatti   Sonatas L.415 / K.119

Chopin   Nocturne Op. 55 No.2

Julie Woodall & Utako Tanigawa / Mozart   K.521 1st mov.

​

Before Utako’s performance, she told her story to everybody. She talked about how and why she started Georgia Musicales Group and how this group has grown this past three years. Our musicale is where members can try out the new piece, challenging piece, even it is not perfect but you can play it in front of appreciative audiences. It is okay to make mistake or start over. We always encourage each other. Utako said she is very thankful to this group, which is same for all other members.

Julie Woodall and Utako played joyful Mozart four hands sonata at the end of the program. We took a group picture with all attendees (Thank you Steven for taking picture!) and got back to enjoying refreshments and having conversation.

Many thanks to Nancy Dunn for organizing this event. We also would like to express our sincere thanks to staff of JCUMC for supporting GMG and letting us use this beautiful venue. Also, we are thankful for people who came to listen to our music.

The next GMG event is home musicale that will be held at Julie’ Woodall’s house on Thursday February 7th. (Attendance is limited to members and advance sign-up is needed.) All future concert and musicale information can be found on our website: www.mygmg.org

We look forward to seeing you soon.

(Respectfully Submitted by: Shoko Tanaka)

Thirteen GMG members and one new member gathered for the regular monthly Musicale at PianoWorks in Duluth on Tuesday, January, 15, 2019. Utako Tanigawa, GMG founder and President, welcomed everyone. The program was varied with two vocal selections, eight piano solos, two duets for violin/piano and one piano duet.

​

Monique Arar/ Haydn  Andante and Variations in F Min

Pam Asberry / Asberry   Come, Let Us Anew

Jimmy Baskerville / Shubert   Inpromptu 90.2

Robin Engleman / Mozart   Voi, che sapete / Handel   Where'er You Walk

Leah Frick / P. Martini   Gavotte

Maggie Frick / Mozart   Sonata K.333 1st mov.

Abbie Hattauer / Melody Bober   Jazz 'n Java

Hsuan Wen Lin / Brahms   Violin Sonata No.2 1st mov.

Judy and Abbie / Willard Palmer   Staccato Caprice

Judy Manganiello / Pieczonka   Tarantella

Utako Tanigawa / Chopin   Polonaise op 26 no 1

Yi-Fan Wu / Lizst   Etude no.6 in a.

​

Pam Asberry announced that she will perform her composition, “Come, Let Us Anew,” at the Whisperings Solo Piano Discovery Concert on February 9th at 7:00 pm at PianoWorks. Tickets may be purchased at https://www.solopianoradio.com/events.htm.

A huge thank you to Jimmy Baskerville for coordinating and setting up the morning’s refreshments!

As always, we express our sincere thanks to Sam Bennett and the staff at PianoWorks for providing this wonderful venue to the Georgia Musicale Group and for supporting the music community.

We look forward to seeing you at future GMG events, the next one being a Special Musicale on Saturday, January 26th, at Johns Creek United Methodist Church, from 6:00-7:30.

(Respectfully Submitted by: Robin Engleman)

The first Home Musicale of 2019 was held January 10 at the beautiful home of Utako Tanigawa and Steven Bennett in Dawsonville.  It was chilly outside but warm and inviting inside with twenty attendees including the hosts as well as two new members and two guests.  Utako welcomed everyone and provided the necessary logistical assistance.  Abbie and Julie urged everyone to renew their memberships in the month of January in order to take advantage of the tremendous bargain of a 10% discount on Patron memberships.  The program, shown below, included piano solos, piano duets, violin with piano accompaniment, and voice with piano accompaniment.

Utako Tanigawa / Chopin Fantasie Impromptu Op. 66

Monique Arar / Haydn Fantasie F minor

Abbie Hattauer / Melody BoberJazz 'n Java

Karen Lin / Piazzolla Adios Nonino

Copland Ukulele Serenade

Yi-Fan Wu / Mozart12 Variations on "Ah, vous dirai-je maman", K.265

Kimber Kwiatkowski / MompouCancion y Danza No. 6

Rob Busey Chopin

Jimmy Baskerville Bacharach Alfie

Robin Engleman / QuilterWeep You No More

Robin Engleman / Strauss Zueignung

Olga PikusGeorge Sviridov / The Waltz" from the suite "Musical illustrations"

Judy Manganiello / Granados Op. 5, No. 10, from Spanish Dances

Julie Woodall / MozartK 521 1st movement w/ Utako

Tanya KrislaskyRimsky-Korsakov (duet w/ Judy)The Young Prince and Princess (from Scheherazade)

After the program, attendees were treated by the hosts along with tireless assistance from Abbie and Julie to a formal five course lunch consisting of many homemade and home-grown items.  Wowissimo!!  Many thanks to Utako and Steven for their tremendous generosity.

Please join us at our next Home Musicale at the home of Julie Woodall on February 7, 2019.

(Respectfully Submitted by: Kimber Kwiatkowski)

Fourteen musicians and more than twenty guests got together at Piano Distributors in Marietta on December 29th at 3 p.m. for the GMG concert series at Yamaha. The theme of this concert was "light, modern and jazz music" to celebrate the end the great year 2018.

The program included Piano Solo, Piano Duet, Clarinet, Vocal and Violin & Flute & Piano Trio with variety of all sorts of music. Audiences and performers were treated by cheerful seasonal music and the concert hall was liven up.

The music information that were played in the concert are as follows.

Jeni Kong (Piano)                           

Linus and Lucy                                                                                       Vince Guaraldi (1928 – 1976)

The Bell Carol (arranged by David Hicken)                                     Mykola Leontovych (1877 – 1921)

Nico Brett (Piano)

Maple Leaf Rag                                                                                           Scott Joplin (1868 – 1917)

Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

First Youth 

Playing Love                                                                                              Ennio Morricone (1928 – )

Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) & Anna Armstrong (Piano)

Stranger in Paradise                                                                           Alexander Borodin (1833 – 1887)

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

La Poule from Nouvelles Suites de Pieces de Clavecin               Jean Philippe Rameau (1683 – 1764)

Sonata             L.415/K119                                                                      Domenico Scarlatti (1685 – 1757)

Judy Manganiello (Piano)

Rhapsody in G Minor                                                                                            Mary Leaf (1947 – )

Festival of Snow                                                                                               Melody Bober (1955 – )

Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano)

Improvisation No. 15                                                                         Francis Poulenc (1899 – 1963)

Leanne Manning (Clarinet) & Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

Introduction, Theme and Variations                                                  Gioachino Rossini (1792-1868)

Dr. Karen Lin (Violin), Tien Ning (Flute) & Yi-Fan Wu (Piano)

Duettino Opus 37                                                                                Franz Doppler (1821 – 1883)

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Nocturne Op. 55 No.2                                                                                   Frederic Chopin (1810 – 1849)

Jeni Kong (Piano)                                       

Mazurka Op.24 No 2 & No.4                                                            Frederic Chopin (1810 – 1849)

Nico Brett and Joe Seidel (Piano)                                    

Sleigh Ride (arranged by Michael Edwards)                                        Leroy Anderson (1908 – 1975)

Anna Armstrong (Piano)

The Man I Love and I Got Rhythm                                                       George Gershwin (1898 – 1937)                       

Ed Ewing

Eleven Four                                                                                             Paul Desmond (1924 – 1977)

Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) & Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

Girls at Maxim’s                                                                                                    Franz Lehar (1870 – 1948)

After the concert, all performers and audience enjoyed conversation with each other having foods and drinks donated by members.

Georgia Musicale Group is very grateful to the manager Mr. Alex Merlo and all staffs at Piano Distributors for their kind hospitality to let us have concert at their hall. GMG is planning to come back here for four concerts in 2019 to continue spreading joy of music.

The concert and musicale information for 2019 will be available on the website: mygmg.org.

We look forward to seeing you there next time!

(Report by Shoko Tanaka)

Fifteen musicians played at the December home musicale, hosted by Leanne Manning, making it a well-attended, fun and festive event. The performances included a piano-clarinet duet; two vocalists singing two songs each, with piano accompaniment; a Christmas-music piano duet; and a flute-piano duet. There were also about a dozen piano solos performed. All performance pieces are listed above.

Leanne Manning and Utako Tanigawa 

Jean Philippe Rameau (arr. Yona Ettlinger) / Gavotte and Six Doubles

Sabine Walsh

J.S. Bach; N. Ikeda / Menuet and Trio in B Minor; Shooting Stars in Summer

Abbie Hattauer & Anna Armstrong

Robert Wright and George Forrest / Stranger in Paradise & And This is My Beloved

Judy Manganiello

Leaf / Rhapsody in G Minor

Janet Yao

Leschetizky / Andante Finale, Op. 13

Chen Pan

Gluck / Minuet and Dance of the Blessed Spirits from Orfeo

Utako Tanigawa

Scarlatti / Sonatas L.422, 415, 499

Ed Ewing

Ravel / Prelude/Le Tombeau de Couperin

Anna Armstrong

Robert Vandall / Christmas Duet Fantasy (w/ Yao)

Kimber Kwiatkowski

Poulenc / Improvisation No. 15

Jimmy Baskerville

Shubert / Impromptu 90.2

Monique Arar

Bach / English Suite no. 2 in a min, BWV 807 Prelude

Robin Engleman

Scarlatti / Gia il sole dal Gange

Handel / Where'er you walk

Olga Pikus

Peter Tchaikovsky / The Nutcracker Suite for Two, "Russian Dance"

Tanya Krislasky

Leroy Anderson / Sleigh Ride

Home musicales are held once a month, usually the first Thursday, at various members’ homes. We are a group of music lovers with varying backgrounds but all with a common love of playing, performing, listening to and appreciating music. We support each other, musically and otherwise, and most members would agree that participating has made them stronger musicians.

Our next home musicale, open to members only, will be at the home of Utako Tanigawa, on Jan. 10, 2019

(Report by Judy Manganiello)

The Tuesday, November 20th, 2018 musicale took place at PianoWorks in Duluth at 10:00 am., and was enjoyed by 8 attendees. It was the first PianoWorks musicale for nine-year-old Sena Yoon, a brilliant pianist who recently joined GMG. Utako welcomed the attendees and the musical began, featuring a variety of German, French, and Russian composers, as well as others. The pieces performed are listed below:

Leanne Manning

Rachmaninoff (accompanied by Julie), Bach, Stravinsky

4 short excerpts

​

Utako Tanigawa

Rameau / 2 pieces from the Suites

​

Maggie Frick

Bach / Prelude and Fugue no. 21 book 1

Beethoven / Bagatelle Op. 119 No. 1

​

Sena Yoon

Bach / Invention 14

Bach / Invention 8

​

Julie Woodall

Grieg / Wedding at Trolghaugen

​

Ed Ewing

Ravel

Prelude, Le Tombeau de Couperin

Forlane, Le Tombeau de Couperin

​

Jimmy Baskerville

Shubert / Impromptu 90.2

​

Utako closed the musicale and encouraged the audience to attend the December 29th concert, which will serve as an opportunity for GMG members to celebrate the New Year together. Jimmy Baskerville was kind enough to set up the refreshment table and the members enjoyed wonderful food and fellowship afterward.

A big thank you to Don and Sam Bennett and to the PianoWorks staff for allowing the GMG to use their facilities. Their generosity and support is much appreciated.

Please join us at the next PianoWorks musicale, taking place on December 18th, 2018 at 10:00 am. We would love to see you!

(Report by: Maggie Frick)

15 performers and audience members got together to attend the concert by Georgia Musicale Group at the Piano Distributors in Marietta at 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 17, 2018. 

Eight performers commenced the program which highlighted six French composers’ music and other composers including Frank Wildhorn, Franz Lehar. A complete listing of the performers and their selections follows:

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

From Nouvelles Suites De Pieces De Clavecin

Sarabande

La Paule                                                                                  Jean-Phillipe Rameau (1683 – 1765)

Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

Arabesque No. 1                                                                     Claude Debussy (1862 – 1918)

Fuling Chiang (Tenor) and Robin Engleman (Piano)

Ave Maria                                                                                Charles Gounod (1818 – 1893)

This is the Moment                                                                  Wildhorn (1951 - ) Bricusse (1931 - )

Leanne Manning (Clarinet) and Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano)

Sonata for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 167, I. Allegretto, II. Allegro       Camille Saint-Saens (1835 – 1921) 

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

From Pieces de Clavecin

            Les Tendres Plaintes

From Nouvelles Suites De Pieces De Clavecin

            L’Egyptienne                                                              Jean- Phillipe Rameau (1683 – 1765)

Shoko Tanaka (Piano)         

Pagodes (Estampes)                                                                Claude Debussy (1862 – 1918)

Robin Engelman (Mezzo Soprano) and Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano)

A Chloris                                                                                 Reynaldo Hahn (1874 – 1947)

Faites–lui mes aveux – Faust                                                    Charles Gounod (1818 – 1893)

Ed Ewing (Piano)

From Le Tombeau de Couperin

Prelude                                                                                     Maurice Ravel (1875 – 1937)

Forlane

Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) and Shoko Tanaka (Piano)

The Girls at Maxim’s – The Merry Widow                                  Franz Lehár (1870 – 1947)

As a finale of the program, we had a special guest “A girl at Maxim”! Abbie Hattauer dressed with fancy costume and a wig! Audience enjoyed the music clapping their hands. All performers and audience enjoyed the variety of French music on lovely fall afternoon, and after the concert, everyone enjoyed refreshments and glass of wine to appreciate French atmosphere!

Georgia Musicale Group is always grateful to BIll Adams, Tony Merritt, and Alex Merlo, managers and staff of Piano Distributors in Marietta for providing this wonderful venue to the Georgia Musical Group and for supporting the music community.

Please join us to out next GMG concert on Saturday December 29th.

(Report by:  Shoko Tanaka)

Nearly 30 performers and audience members braved another dark and stormy night to attend the fourth concert by Georgia Musicale Group at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center’s at 6 p.m. on Thursday evening, November 8, 2018. 

Among the special attendees at this concert were Liesl and Toshi Kii. Both members and Platinum Sponsors of the Georgia Musicale Group, Liesl is also a leader of the organization.  It was through her tireless efforts that GMG and Callanwolde collaborated on this year’s four-concert series.  In August of this year Liesl donated her mother’s Steinway Grand Piano to Callanwolde Fine Arts Center for use in the mansion’s intimate Music Room. Before the concert began, GMG Founder and President Utako Tanigawa introduced Liesl and Toshi and acknowledged this gift from Liesl.  The concert was dedicated in her honor. 

The dozen GMG performers commenced the program which highlighted four Russian composers as well as Bach, Beethoven, Liszt, Saint-Saens, Strauss and three contemporary composers (including two women!). A complete listing of the evening’s performers and their selections follows:

Abbie Hattauer and Judy Manganiello (Piano Four Hands)

If I Loved You / Oscar Hammerstein and Richard Rodgers 

​

Judy Manganiello (Piano)

Rhapsody in G Minor / Mary Leaf    

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Anna Armstrong

Dreaming, Op. 15, #3 / Amy Beach

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Leanne Manning (Clarinet) and Kimber Kwiatkowski (Piano)

Sonata for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 167   I. Allegretto    II. Allegro animato / Camille Saint-Saens 

Ed Ewing (Piano)

Prelude in G Minor / Sergei Rachmaninoff

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Sena Yoon (Piano)

Waltz from Album for the Young, Op. 39, no. 8 / Pyotr Tchaikovsky
 

Nico Brett (Piano)

Flight of the Bumblebee from the Tale of Tsar Saltan Arranged by Sergei Rachmaninoff / Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

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Tatiana Krislasky and Olga Pikus (Piano)

Gallop and Tarantella from Sketches / Valery Gavrilin

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Nico Brett (Piano)

French Suite No. 5 in G Major BWV 816 - Gigue / Johann Sebastian Bach 

Sena Yoon (Piano)

Sonata No. 20 in G major, Op. 49, No. 2

Allegro ma non troppo / Ludwig Van Beethoven

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Jimmy Baskerville (Piano)

Liebestraum No. 3 (Published in 1850) / Franz Liszt

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Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Sonata Op.53 1st movt.  Allegro / Ludwig Van Beethoven

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Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) and Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Chacun à Son Goût / Johann Strauss, Jr.

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All in all, it was a wonderful evening for everyone filled with laughter, beautiful LIVE music performed by six generations of musicians, food and that special Georgia Musicale Group fellowship generated by the power of music!  

Georgia Musicale Group is most grateful to the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center staff, especially Steve Cole, Arts Education Director and Brooke Adams, Arts Education and Development Assistant for their assistance in offering these free concerts.  Built in 1920 by Charles H. Candler, this beautiful historic estate is located in the Druid Hills neighborhood of Atlanta.

(Report by: Abbie Hattauer)

Six Georgia Musicale Group members and several guests attended the Oct. 27, 2018 morning at Piano Distributors in Marietta for Yamaha Musicale.

Shoko Tanaka started musicale with her new try-out piece, "Pagodes" from Estamps by Deubussy. After her solo, Abbie Hattauer sang "I Dreamed A Dreamed" by Schonberg accompanied by Shoko. Judy Manganiello and Abbie Hattauer played lovely piano duet piece, “If I Loved You” by Hammerstein. Ed Ewing played Prelude, Le Tombeau de Couperin by Ravel, Utako played Beethoven Sonata Op. 53, 1 st movement. Susan Tanguy played Sonatina in G Major by Latour and Hands of Time from Brian's Song by Legrani, which she will play at her recital in November (Good luck!)

Since it was a small group, members had their second turns. Judy played Rhapsody in G Minor, by Mary Leaf. Shoko played Mozart Sonata KV 310 in A-minor 1st movement. Utako played Scherzo No. 2 Op.31 by Chopin.

As always, these Saturday morning gathering provide opportunities for performers to try out new pieces, experiment with different tempi, and play pieces from memory, and rehearse upcoming concert repertoire, etc. all for an appreciative audience in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.

Georgia Musicale Group is always grateful to BIll Adams, Tony Merritt, and Alex Merlo, managers and staff of Piano Distributors in Marietta for providing this wonderful venue to the Georgia Musical Group and for supporting the music community.

Please join us when we gather next time in January. (Time & Date TBD)

Hope to see you then!

(Reported by: Shoko Tanaka)

Five Georgia Musical Group members (four performers and one very helpful spouse) traveled to Canterbury Court Senior Living in Atlanta on Saturday, October 13, 2018 to present a concert in the facility’s Community Room. After welcoming nearly three dozen residents, a delightful program of Chopin and Schubert piano favorites, two vocal songs and a piano selection composed by the youngest performer’s grandfather, was offered. The complete program is listed below.

At the completion of the program, Door Prizes were awarded to five lucky audience members and everyone enjoyed cookies and drinks.  “Will you come back?” many residents asked.  “Yes, we will!” we replied.

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Julie Woodall (Piano)

Impromptu, Op. 90, No. 3 / Franz Schubert (1797 – 1824)

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)  

Fantasy-Impromptu Op. 66 / Frédéric Chopin (1810 – 1849)

Maggie Frick (Piano)

Grande Fantasia di Molto Espressione / John Neukuckatz (1893 – 1973)

Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) and Julie Woodall (Piano)

Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man – Showboat / Jerome Kern (1910 – 1945)

Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Etude Op. 25 No.1 / Frédéric Chopin (1810 – 1849)

Etude Op. 10 No.12                                                    

Julie Woodall (Piano)

Impromptu, Op. 90, No. 4 / Franz Schubert (1797 – 1824)

Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) and Utako Tanigawa (Piano)

Chacun à Son Goût / Johann Strauss, Jr. (1825 – 1899) 

(Report by: Abbie Hattauer)

It was a complete and total TRIUMPH!! 

Bravissimo to everyone for stellar performances!

It was so enjoyable to sit in the audience and listen to such

well-planned, wonderful presentations!

So said one audience attendee at Georgia Musicale Group’s recent concert at Spivey Hall located in Morrow, Georgia. And more than one hundred other attendees agreed!

Twelve GMG performers took the stage to bask in the Hall’s impeccable acoustics and ambiance. In addition, five GMG members worked diligently back stage to help ensure a smooth, well-run concert.

Piano favorites like Beethoven’s Pathetique and Rondo from his Sonata 28, Chopin’s Grand Waltz Brillante and Barcarolle, Schubert’s Impromptu, Rachmaninoff’s Études-Tableaux Op. 33, and a Haydn Sonata were performed as well as Bernstein’s Sonata for Clarinet and Piano and piano duo arrangements of Country Gardens by Percy Grainger and Meredith Monk’s Folkdance. Two mezzo soprano opera arias by Mozart and Saint-Saens were performed. Rounding out the program was Mendelssohn’s Venetian Gondola Song and Islamey by Mily Barakirev.*     

“Performing at Spivey Hall was a dream come true for each of us,” shared Utako Tanigawa, GMG’s Founder and President.  “It marks the culmination of several years’ effort by GMG’s members who have been working to increase appreciation of classical and other music through listening, learning and performing opportunities. This concert was a testament to the mission of the Georgia Musicale Group, whose members are kindred spirits who support and encourage each other.”

(Reported by: Abbie Hattauer)

Ten Georgia Musicale Group members performed and several guests attended the Aug. 21, 2018 morning. Musicale at PianoWorks in Duluth.  As in the past, attendees shared breakfast refreshments and were then welcomed by GMG founder Utako Tanigawa.  She brought those gathered up to date on GMG events and happenings and goals.

Performers and their selections are shown below.

As always, these Tuesday morning gatherings provide opportunities for performers to “try out” new pieces, experiment with different tempi, and play pieces “from memory,” and rehearse upcoming concert repertoire, etc. all for an appreciative audience in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.

Many thanks to Don and Sam Bennett, and the staff at PianoWorks in Duluth for providing this wonderful venue to the Georgia Musicale Group and for supporting the music community. Please join us when we gather next month at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2018. Hope to see you then!

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Leanne Manning & Janet  Yao Franck  Sonata in A, 2nd movement

Utako tanigawa  Chopin & Liszt  Etude op 10-12, Widmung

Dawn & Eric Hawk

Abbie and Julie  Saint-Saens  Mon coeur . . .

Robin Engleman  Mozart  Voi, che sapete

Asberry & Helfen  Albeniz  Triana

Nancy Dunn  Beethoven  Sonata #15, Op. 28, 4th movement

Anna Armstrong  Chopin  Etude, Op. 25, No. 2

Jimmy Baskerville

Julie Woodall  Schumann  Abegg Variations(partial)

Judy Manganiello  Leaf  rhapsody in G Minor

Anna & Janet  Wynn-Anne Rossi  Volcán Santa María

Chen Pan  Listener

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(Report by Judy Manganiello)

Georgia Musicale Group held its third concert at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center on August 9, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. in the mansion’s Music Room.  Entitled “Chopin and Friends,” the concert was an opportunity to acknowledge the gift by Liesl Kii to the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center of her mother’s Steinway Grand piano. A member and leader of GMG, it is through Liesl’s tireless efforts that GMG and Callanwolde collaborated on this four-concert series.  Liesl’s donation is an example of her generosity, concern for others and great love for the arts.  The evening’s performances on the piano were dedicated to Liesl.

The twenty music lovers who gathered (in spite of rush hour traffic and a terrible rain storm!) were treated to a typical GMG concert: intimate, informational, a bit informal with delicious food and, as always, beautiful music performed with love.  Following a welcome from Utako Tanigawa, founder and president of the GMG, the program began. Performers and their selections can be found:  https://www.mygmg.org/programs

At the conclusion of the performances, photos of the performers and the audience were taken in front of Liesl’s piano.  Everyone shared food and fellowship before heading home (accompanied by a beautiful sunset!).

Georgia Musicale Group is most grateful to the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center staff, especially Steve Cole, Arts Education Director and Brooke Adams, Arts Education and Development Assistant for their assistance in offering these free concerts.  Built in 1920 by Charles H. Candler, this beautiful historic estate is located in the Druid Hills neighborhood of Atlanta. Please join us for our next concert in this series on Thursday, November 8, 2018 at 6:00 pm.

(Report by Abbie Hattauer)

A dozen members of the Georgia Musicale Group (and one guest) traveled to Julie and Darrell Woodall’s Dawsonville home at 10 a.m. on August 2nd for the monthly GMG Home Musicale.  

GMG Founder and President Utako Tanigawa welcomed those gathered and shared information about upcoming events. Julie started the music portion of the morning off with several of Schumann’s Abegg variations.  A complete list of performers and selections is listed below.

Following the music and with help from Darrell, another table and chairs were set up in the living room and everyone helped themselves to a galaxy of fresh homemade fixings for beef and chicken tacos, guacamole, vegetables, fruit, and cookies – delicious!  As always, conversation and fellowship abounded.

GMG Home Musicales are open to all members (attendance is limited and sign up via the www.mygmg.org is required.)  The gatherings begin at 10 a.m. on the first Thursday of the month at a member’s home and are followed by a light lunch.  The informal atmosphere of the Home Musicales provides a unique opportunity for members to try out new music, play on different pianos, fine-tune upcoming performances or get experience performing before an appreciative, supportive audience.

Plan on joining us at our next gathering on Thursday, September 6, 2018 at the home of GMG member Judy Manganiello.   

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Utako Tanigawa  Chopin  Etude Op 25 -1 Op 10-12

Abbie and Anna  Saint Saens  Mon coeur . . .

Judy Manganiello  (Listener)

Ed Ewing  Desmond  Take Five

Janet Yao  Bach  Italian Concerto, mov.2

Janet Yao  Chinese Folk Song  The Swallow

Chen and Abbie (flute and guitar duets)  

Haydn  Serenade 

Carulli  Waltz

Anna Armstrong and Janet  

Melody Bober  Hanon for Two No.2 & 20
Peter Rudzik  "Für Elise" Duet Variations
David Karp  Phoenix Blues
Wynn-Anne Rossi  Nova bossa nova

Nancy Dunn  Beethoven  Sonata #15, Op. 28, 4th mov.

Rob Busey (will play something soon)

Julie Woodall  Schumann  Abegg Variations(partial)

Kristi Helfin  Faye Lopez, Arranger  All Things Bright and Beautiful

(Report by Abbie Hattauer)

Sixteen music lovers (including one baby) gathered in Piano Distributors in Marietta for GMG’s monthly Yamaha musicale on Saturday, July28, 2018 at 11am.  Among those in attendance were three first-time attendees:  Mr. and Mrs. Jaime Cuneo and their daughter. Mr. Cuneo is the underwriting manager and a producer at WATC TV 57 based in Norcross. They had been invited by GMG member Jimmy Baskerville.

Following introductions and a welcome by GMG’s founder and president, Dr. Utako Tanigawa, the program began.  Selections performed are listed below: 

Utako Tanigawa  Chopin  Waltz Op. 18

Utako Tanigawa  Paderewski  Au Soir Op 10 No.1

Abbie Hattauer  Schonberg  I Dreamed a Dream

Asberry & Helfen  Mozart/Albeniz  Duettino Concertante/Triana

Jimmy Baskerville  Beethoven  Sonatina #17 3rd Movement

Pam Asberry  Asberry  Thanksgiving/Now

Rob Busey (Listener) 

Jeni Kong  Chopin  Prelude in D flat Major Op. 28, No.15

Jeni Kong  Schubert  Impromptus Op.90 No.4

Jeni Kong  Schubert  Impromptus Op.90 No.2 

Shoko Tanaka  Chopin  Barcarolle Op. 60 F-sharp Major

Following the performances, everyone gathered to share refreshments and fellowship.

The Georgia Musicale Group is most grateful to Manager Bill Adams and the staff at Yamaha Piano Distributors for their generous continuous support for this musicale.  The next Yamaha Musicale will be held on July 28, 2018 from 11am at Piano Distributor in Marietta.

(Report by Abbie Hattauer)

Sixteen Georgia Musicale Group members and more than 40 people attended the Georgia Musicales Group the 1st Music Marathon at on July 21, 2018 1 p.m. at PianoWorks in Duluth.  

To begin the event, GMG’s founder and President Dr. Utako Tanigawa welcomed performers and audience. She explained the concept of this event which is to enjoy the variety of music in casual and fun atmosphere in summer afternoon!

After the greeting, the concert started around 1:15 p.m. The program was divided into four sections. The complete program is attached at the end of this narrative. We had a guest artist, Mr. George Mann who played Be Thou With Me by Johann Sebastian Bach (arranger George Mann), Passacaglia in G Minor by George Frideric Handel, Sonata in G Major, Hob. XVI, No. 27 by Franz Joseph Haydn, Arietta (2006) by Rick Robertson and Danse (Tarantelle Styrienne) by Claude Debussy to recognize the 100th anniversary of Debussy’s death. In addition, we had new performers for this event. Jayden Chong played Polonaise Op. 40 No.1 by Frédéric Chopin, Joshua Shue played Fantasie, Movement No. 1 by Robert Schumann. Wayne Gilreath played four pieces from Vier leichte Tanzstücke Arvo Pärt: Der gestifelte Kater (Puss in Boots), Rotkäppchen und der Wolf (Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf), Schmetterlinge (Butterflies), Tanz der Entenküken (Dance of the Ducklings) and Melody by Myroslav Skoryk.

Pam Asberry and Kristi Helfen had a short master class by Mr. George Mann. They played Porgy and Bess Fantasy by Gershwin/Grainger and both two and all listeners learned a lot of great tips.

As a finale of this event, Mr. George Mann closed the program with his great repertories and outstanding performing.

Besides the music program, performers and audience enjoyed silent auction and tag sale during three short intermissions and after concert. We appreciate all items that performers donated for auction and tag sale. All proceeds go to Georgia Musicale Group fund to support out future events.

It was the GMG’s first Music Marathon. We would like to recognize all the hard work done by GMG executive members, Dr. Utako Tanigawa, Abbie Hattauer, Judy Manganiello to make this big event happen and also we would like to extend our appreciation to all performers and guests for their contributions. Georgia Musicales Group would also like to show our many thanks to Don and Sam Bennett, Derek Vann and the staff at PianoWorks in Duluth for providing this wonderful venue to the Georgia Musicale Group and for their support for this event.

Please join us for upcoming GMG concerts. All future concert schedules are available on website: www.mygmg.org  Looking forward to having you!

(Reported by: Shoko Tanaka)

Audience comments:

• Four hours went so fast.  Wonderful performers with variety of music! Mr. George Mann is an outstanding pianist! 

• Actually, I'm surprised to find myself saying "Yes, I'd like more of these ". There was something relaxed about it and there were so many beautiful performances. If we could find a way to reduce the burden on you, Julie and Abbie, that would be wonderful. Pam Martin was a terrific MC; her short introductions were gracefully rendered and made each piece more meaningful. 

• I agree that the concert seemed like a great success. The performances were lovely, and George Mann's contributions were wonderful. 

• I totally agree on every remark you made! It was such a great event. I truly enjoyed the afternoon!! Thank you all!!!

• I had a great time. I appreciated the diversity of the performances. Also, given the drive (at least for me) I didn't mind the longer format of the recital.

• We enjoyed the concert very much. I thought the longer format worked well with the frequent intermissions. That made it possible to hear a lot of great music even though we couldn’t arrive until later in the program. It was very well organized, too. Great job!

• Ditto to everyone!  I am so grateful for all your efforts -- for practicing, for performing, for narrating, for setting up, for cleaning up, for driving home for more supplies, for attending!!, for buying items and bringing items, for your food (delicious spinach dip, Kristi!), for your drink donations, for helping get the room ready Derek!,for all of PianoWorks staff, for counting heads, for organizing handouts, for taking pictures, for making copies -- an amazing afternoon that was fun after all!  

Six Georgia Musicale Group members and several guests attended the July 17, 2018 10 a.m. Musicale at PianoWorks in Duluth.  As in the past, attendees shared breakfast refreshments and were then welcomed by GMG founder Utako Tanigawa.  She brought those gathered up to date on GMG events and happenings and goals.

The program began with Julie Woodall offering Schubert’s Impromptu, Opus 90, No. 3 and followed by Utako playing Chopin’s Waltz, Op. 18.  Julie joined forces with Abbie Hattauer with Saint Saens’ aria “Mon Coeur s’ouvre ta voix.”  Judy Manganiello played “May” by Tchaikovsky and Harvey’s “Rumba Toccata.” Maggie Frick offered Neukuckatz’s “Grande Fantasia di Molto Espressione” (her great grandfather’s composition) and Nico Brett closed the musical selections with Mozart’s K331, 1st and 3rd Movements.

As always, these Tuesday morning gatherings provide opportunities for performers to “try out” new pieces, experiment with different tempi, and play pieces “from memory,” and rehearse upcoming concert repertoire, etc. all for an appreciative audience in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.

Many thanks to Don and Sam Bennett, and the staff at PianoWorks in Duluth for providing this wonderful venue to the Georgia Musicale Group and for supporting the music community. Please join us when we gather next month at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, August 31, 2018. Hope to see you then!

Utako TanigawaChopinWaltz Op. 18

Chopin,Nocturne Op. 27 No.2

Abbie Hattauer,Saint-SaensMon Coeur s'ouvra ta voix

Asberry & Helfen,Albeniz,Triana

Maggie FrickNeukuckatzGrand Fantasy

Nico Brett,Mozart,K 331, 1st Movement

Nico Brett,Mozart,K 331, 3rd Movement

Julie Woodall,Schubert,Impromptu, Opus 90, no. 3

Judy Manganiello,Tchaikovsky,May

Judy manganiello,Harvey,Rumba Toccata

(Reported by: Abbie Hattauer)

Eleven music lovers (including one baby) gathered in Piano Distributors in Marietta for GMG monthly Yamaha musicale on Saturday, July 7, 2018 at 11am.

GMG's president, Dr. Utako Tanigawa welcomed everybody and musicale began.

Utako started musicale with two pieces, Au Soir by Paderewski and Sonata Hob. XVI 50 by Haydn. Following Utako, Abbie Hattauer sang two songs, “What are you doing the rest of your life” by Legrand and “Velvet, I can wish you” accompanied by Anna Armstrong. Next, Shoko Tanaka played Barcarolle Op.60 by Chopin and Yan Zong Ding sang Donizetti's Una Furtiva Lagrima accompanied by Robin Engleman. Maggie Frick played Grand Fantasy that was composed by her great grandfather, Neukuckatz. Lastly Nico Brett played two pieces; Beethoven Piano Sonata Op.13 the 3rd movement and Venetian Gondola Song by Mendelssohn. He also added one more piece, the beginning and last part of La Campanella by Liszt.

The Georgia Musicale Group is most grateful to Manager Bill Adams and the staff at Yamaha Piano Distributors for their generous continuous support for this musicale.

The next Yamaha Musicale will be held on July 28, 2018 from 11am at Piano Distributor in Marietta.

(Report by Shoko Tanaka)

A dozen members of the Georgia Musicale Group gathered for a post-July 4th celebration of music and fellowship at the home of Pam Martin on Thursday morning.  A wide range of music was performed – a solo on bamboo flute, six piano solos, two four-hand piano duets, two duo piano selections (with clapping and lots of vocal “Heys!) and a mezzo soprano solo.  (A complete listing of performers and their selections is listed below.)

Following the performances, GMG Founder and President Utako Tanigawa briefly described the Amazon Smile opportunity for GMG members and patrons as well as the upcoming Tag Sale and Silent Auction scheduled for the Music Marathon to be held at PianoWorks from 1 to 5 p.m. on July 21, 2018.  In addition, Sharon Scott shared information about the recent VoyageATL interview and photos highlighting Utako and GMG’s mission and activities. This excellent article is available online at http://voyageatl.com/interview/meet-utako-tanigawa-georgia-musicale-group-dawsonville/

Our hostess, Pam Martin, provided a delicious sit-down luncheon of quiche, salad, blueberry and peach cobbler (with ice cream!) and beverages.  The gathering was a perfect opportunity for members to share a meal and offer support and encouragement to dear friends – old and new.

GMG Home Musicales are open to all members (attendance is limited and sign up via the www.mygmg.org is required.)  The gatherings begin at 10 a.m. on the first Thursday of the month at a member’s home and are followed by a light lunch.  The informal atmosphere of the Home Musicales provides a unique opportunity for members to try out new music, play on different pianos, fine-tune upcoming performances or get experience performing before an appreciative, supportive audience.

Plan on joining us at our next gathering on Thursday, August 2, 2018 at the home of GMG member Julie Woodall.

(Report by Abbie Hattauer) 

More than 50 music lovers gathered in St. Brigid Catholic Church in Johns Creek for GMG concert series on Sunday, June 17, 2018 at 2pm. This concert theme was “A Musical Matinee! Music of Mozart, Debussy, Mendelssohn, Chopin and Broadway Favorites”

Judy Manganiello welcomed everyone and thanked to Fr. Neil Herlihy, pastor; Jonathan Eason, music director; Daisy Davidow and Susan Neppl for their support for this concert. Then Judy introduced GMG’s founder and president, Dr. Utako Tanigawa and concert began.

Eleven GMG members performed in this concert. Pam Asberry played two of her original music, Nocturne and The Love of Thousands. Judy Manganiello played Arabesque No. 1 by Claude Debussy. Then we had new members, Yan Zong Ding (Tenor) and Robin Engelman (Piano) who played Dalla sua pace by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and My lovely Celia by George Monro. They were followed by Shoko Tanaka, she played Song Without Words Op. 30, No. 1 by Mendelssohn. Robin Engleman sang Voi che sapete by Mozart and O Rest in the Lord by Mendelssohn accompanied by Pam Asberry. And Utako Tanigawa concluded the first half of the concert with Impromptu Op. 142 No.3 by Franz Schubert.

Audience and performers had brief intermission and the second half of the concert started with Albert Pieczonka’s Tarantella by Judy Manganiello. Then we had another vocalist, Fuling Chiang (Tenor) accompanied by Robin Engelman. Fuling sang You’ll Never Walk Alone by Richard Rogers and The Lord’s Prayer Albert Hay Malotte. Nancy Dunn played Mazurka in A, Op. 17, No. 4 by Chopin. Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) sang I Dreamed A Dream by Claude-Michel Schonberg by Shoko Tanaka. Then as a finale, audience was treated to Clarinet and Piano duo by Leanne Manning (Clarinet) and Janet Yao (Piano) who played Sonata in A by Caesar Franck. Complete information about all the music presented at this concert as well as all the performer’s bios is available at the GMG website: mygmg.org.

After the concert, all audience and performers celebrated one of our GMG leaders, Nancy Dunn’s birthday with singing birthday song and sharing a lovely birthday cake.

The Georgia Musicale Group is most grateful to Fr. Neil Herlihy, pastor; Jonathan Eason, music director; Daisy Davidow and Susan Neppl at Saint Brigid Catholic Church for their generous support for this concert. The next GMG concert will be held on July 21, 2018 from 1 to 5 p.m. at PianoWorks in Duluth.

(Report by Shoko Tanaka / Photo by Chen Pan)

10 members of Georgia Musicale Group, (Utako Tanigawa, Leanne Manning, Dawn Hawk, Eric Hawk, Jimmy Baskerville, Nancy Dunn, Sharon Scott, Janet Yao, Chen Pan, and Julie Woodall) attended the June 7, 2018 Home Musicale at the home of Ed Ewing.

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Dr. Utako Tanigawa played Impromptu Op.142 No.3 by Schubert. Dr. Dawn D. Hawk played 1st half of Chopin’s Ballade No.4. Abbie Hattauer played Tchaikovsky’s June Barcarolle and Ed Ewing played Eleven Four by Desmond. Jimmy Baskerville played Tempest, 3rd movement by Beethoven, Nancy Dunn played Mazurka Op.17 No.4 by Chopin, Sharon Scott played Polonaise Op. 40 No.1 by Chopin, Janet Yao played Beethoven’s Sonata Op.27, No.2 1st movement, and Julie Woodall played Schumann’s Abegg variations.

In addition to piano, the group enjoyed beautiful performances on clarinet by Leanne accompanied by Janet (Sonata in A – 3rd movement by Franck), violin by Eric Hawk (Bach Minuet 1& 2 from Cello Suite No.1), and beautiful flute playing by Chen Pan (Love theme from Cinema Paradiso by Ennio Morricone). Chen performed for our group for the first time.  

After musicale, Ed Ewing kindly provided food and beverages for lunch. Participants greatly appreciate his hospitality.

Next Home Musicale will be on Thursday, July 5th at Pam Martin’s house.

(Report and Photo by Ed Ewing) 

More than 30 music lovers gathered in Steinway Piano Galleries’ Barbara Kirby Recital Hall for “Poetry in Music: the music of Mozart, Chopin and Opera arias.” Tom Olson, Steinway’s Director of Sales welcomed everyone and GMG’s Master of Ceremonies, Pam Martin, got the program started by introducing Utako Tanigawa, the group’s founder and president. 

The musical festivities began with Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) and Julie Woodall (Piano) performing Mon cœur s'ouvre à ta voix from Samson et Dalila  by Camille Saint-Saens.  Julie Woodall moved to the Steinway Model D 9-foot Concert Grand, to perform Chopin’s Valse Posth. in E minor. Utako Tanigawa played two more Chopin favorites: Nocturne Op. 27 No. 2 in D-flat major and Grande Valse Brillante Op. 18 in E-flat major.  Abbie Hattauer returned with Shoko Tanaka (Piano) for I Dreamed A Dream by Claude-Michel Schonberg.  And this time Shoko sat at the Steinway to play Mozart’s Sonata K. 310 in a minor.  Utako joined forces with Julie for another Mozart favorite utilizing both pianos; his Concerto No. 23 in A major 1st movement.  

Following a brief intermission, another two piano selection when Kristi Helfen joined Pam Asberry for Mozart’s Duettino Concertante based on the Finale of Mozart's Piano Concerto in F major, K. 459. One more duet followed, this time with Leanne Manning (Clarinet) and Jonathan Smith (Piano) for the final Mozart selection of the day, his Clarinet Concerto in A Major K. 622. The concert ended with Abbie and Utako in a performance of Prince Orlofsky’s Couplet from Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss, Jr.      

Several door prizes were awarded and then the performers and audience mingled around the refreshment table for snacks, drinks, and fellowship.

The Georgia Musicale Group is most grateful to Steinway Piano Galleries Manager Stevan Mills and his staff for their continued generosity and hospitality. The next GMG concert will be held on June 17, 2018 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Saint Brigid’s Catholic Church in Johns Creek.

Complete information about all the music presented at this concert as well as all the performer’s bios is available at the GMG website: mygmg.org.

(Report by Abbie Hattauer / Photo by Ed Ewing and James Baskerville)

More than 20 Georgia Musicale Group members gathered at the Yamaha Piano Distributors location in Marietta for their monthly musicale.  Joining the group were five new GMG members: Francesca Richard, a voice teacher who is a retired opera singer in New York, three of her students – Yan Zong Ding, Robin Edelman and Fuling Chiang (all of whom have become GMG patrons) and Rob Busey who is interested in playing in our musicales soon.  Founder and President Utako Tanigawa welcomed everyone and asked each person to share a few words about themselves. 

The musical festivities began with Abbie Hattauer (Mezzo Soprano) singing I Dreamed a Dream by Claude-Michel Schoneberg accompanied by Shoko Tanaka on piano. Shoko remained in place and played Mozart’s Sonata in A Minor K310 and Mendelssohn’s Songs Without Words, Op. 301.  Next was another duo: Leanne Manning on Clarinet playing Eugene Bozza’s Claribel accompanied by Kimba Kwiatkowski.  One of our new members, Yan Zong Ding (Tenor) offered two selections:  Mozart’s Dalla sua pace and Monroe’s My lovely Celia.  He was accompanied by another new member, Robin Engleman on piano. Utako Tanigawa performed two Chopin masterpieces:  Nocturne Op. 27 and Grand Waltz Brillante, Op. 18. Robin Engleman returned as soprano soloist, accompanied by GMG member Pam Asberry, with two selections – Voi Che Sapete by Mozart and O Rest in the Lord by Mendelssohn.  Nico Brett, at 12 and a half the youngest performer present, offered Movement #1 and #3 from Mozart’s 331. Another new member, Fuling Chiang (also a tenor) and also accompanied by Robin Engleman sang the Lord’s Prayer by Albert Hay Malotte and You’ll Never Walk Alone by Rodgers and Hammerstein. Ed Ewing played Bach’s English Suite 2: Prelude.  The last performer, Pam Asberry, played Mysterious Caverns and Ocean Stars, two pieces from her first published CD Seashells in My Pocket.

Following the performers, Alex Mori, Piano Distributors Sales Consultant, shared how he journeyed from Taiwan to Japan to Altanta and the role that music has played in his life. 

As always, these Saturday morning gatherings provide opportunities for performers to “try out” new pieces, experiment with different tempi, play pieces “from memory” or with music, and rehearse upcoming concert repertoire, etc. all for an appreciative audience in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.

The Georgia Musicale Group is most grateful to Manager Bill Adams and the staff at Yamaha Piano Distributors for their generosity and hospitality over a period of many months.  Our next “fourth Saturday” musicale will be held at Yamaha Piano Distributors’ Marietta location on June 30, 2018 beginning at 11:00 am.  New attendees are always welcome; please come and join us.

(Report by Abbie Hattauer / Photo by Utako Tanigawa)