A Pleasant Musical Afternoon

Judy Darst was first to perform at the April 7 musicale, treating listeners to Nocturne no. 5, by John Field (1782-1837), and two pieces from John Knowles Paine (1839-1906): The Shephard's Lament, and Farewell, both from Paine's suite In The Country. The music was refreshingly new (to my ears) and Judy's playing was smooth and solid.

Schubert's Sonata D. 664, third movement, was elegantly played by Utako.

And Tim Anderson, hampered by technical difficulties, decided to perform his Chopin Scherzo no. 1 in B minor at a future musicale.

A highlight of Wednesday's musicale was Keng Siong Sim's performance of Rachmaninov's Cello and Piano Sonata, where Keng played both instruments: the piano part was pre-recorded, and shown on a t.v. screen, while he played cello in "real time" accompanying the piano part.

Keng started learning piano at age 11 and began cello at age 17. He was the winner of the 2012 Washington International Piano Artists Competition. Keng's playing two instruments on Wednesday also made him the winner of a number of congratulatory remarks and compliments!

Sixteen music lovers -- a mix of performers and listeners -- were present at the April 7 musicale (1-2 p.m.) Attendees are now using the open space on the sign-up sheet to write comments about the music performed at weekly musicales. Utako also gives people the option of writing comments on "Your Voice" on the GMG page.

Next Thursday, April 15, will be an on-line recital. Deadline to sign up is April 13.