Joyful Sounds September 24th 2011
First Concert of the new season
Even the most jaded concert goer cannot resist Musical Arts International Series. It offers some of the most creative and imaginative programs in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.
Thanks to the Series' think-outside-the-box approach, we were treated to a joyous recital of virtuoso brass and piano compositions that spanned the 17th to 21st century and called on musical cultures of both the East and West.
The soloists - Chris Gekker on the trumpet, Brian Priebe on the trombone and Swiss Alphorn, and Li-Ly Chang on the piano - are all superb musicians who conveyed the beauty of James Fry's Three Chinese Folk Songs, Eric Ewazen's An Elizabethan Songbook and Li-ly Chang's own musical depiction of the Taiwan scenery on the Ali Mountain.
The Swiss Alphorn was an unusual treat for the audience. It is a gentle giant that is rarely heard on the concert stage and is remarkable not only for its appearance but its wide range and sweet tones.
Our community owes a debt of thanks to Music Arts International. In these difficult economic times, it makes music of outstanding quality accessible for very reasonable prices and free parking.
- An enthusiastic repeat subscriber
.... As for the concert on Sat. night, my friend and I throughly enjoyed it and admired your ensembles. For me, I love the encore and the 3 Chinese songs' adaptation the most. Bravo!
- In-May
Both Lien-Chong and I enjoyed the concert very much. Lien-Chong never saw an alphorn before so it was an eye-opening experience for her.
I thought the piano sounds quite well accompanying the brass instruments. I especially enjoyed the pieces when all three of you played together. Thank you for a night of sound of joy!...
- Phoenix
The concert Saturday night was an interesting combination of instruments performed by top musicians in our area. Most of the audience probably did not know what an alphorn was.
Lily Chang's new piece "Ali Mountain" reminded you of being in the mountains on a train ride. It was jazzy and quite descriptive....
- Paul
Trio Romantica March 12, 2011 Quotation Source
Just want you to know that I especially enjoyed the first and the third movements of Haydn. Your key touching was incredibly even in the running passages and powerful with the chords!
Phoenix
Enjoyed last night's concert, especially your piece and SchumannEdwina
I wasn't able to stay after the concert last night. Therefore, I would like to send you this e-mail to let you know that I really enjoyed last night's concert, esp. your composition. It is very interesting to hear cello create so many different effects. And, it was very refreshing to hear 2-part invention being played by violin and cello. Thank youAlice
Castle in the Mist Sept. 25, 2010
"The September 25, 2010 chamber concert featuring piano, flute, and cello was not only delightful in its presentation of fresh, innovative music, but also enlightening. Kudos to the trio for programming lesser-heard music of female composers along with greats such as Manuel de Falla and not just on a Women's History month (March) program. It was interesting to actually hear the alto flute as well as the traditional C concert flute and piccolo. The ethnic reference to the Purple bamboo flute of China is an indication of the international and inclusive flavor of the unique Musical Arts International concert series."Edwina
Triple Delight November 22, 2009
"We enjoyed the concert very much. We did talk to Jonathan for a few minutes. He is very nice and a great violinist."Anita
"Lily, I'm really glad I was able to go. The playing was very musical and touching, by all 3 of you! Nothing trite or unfelt about any of it."
Susan
"It was a treat for me to be there. Your composition was the best. I reeeeeaally liked it!"Ruth
"The notes you included make me feel as if I'm hearing the music! (joke). Surely I must plan ahead better to attend the next concert. I was especially curious about Mountain Song. Please keep me on the mailing list!Charlie
"Bravo! Bravo! I really liked 30 Mile Villa. Very romantic. "Bob
"The music choice was excellent, but I'm sure not easy. I could just imagine all those Czech folk music/dances in the Dvorak. Your piece for violin and piano was beautiful and I could imagine the Chinese hero and heroine in the village for it captured the spirit of the story. The concert was a huge success. Happy Thanksgiving!"Edwina
"The program is wonderful. I enjoyed it very much."Tom
Ahuvia-Ho Piano Duo September 26, 2009
"The couple's performence was very impressive. And, it is a good learning opportunity for Winnie. We are looking forward to coming to your concert in Norvember."Su
"Thank you again for inviting us to play at Musical Arts International and for the beautiful event. We also had a nice time with the Huangs - thank you for arranging that. We wish you much continued success for the series and hope you will consider having us again in the future."Saar and Stephanie
"I am pleased to hear that the concert went well. Thanks so much for
sharing that with us and I hope we will have more programs as such in
the future."Sharon ,Embassy of Israel
Director of Cultural Affairs
"I, too, appreciate not only skill, but your musicality. Your expressiveness through music and your personality connect well with the audience. Thank you for sharing your talent. Be sure to remind us of the November concert, including time, closer to the date. It is a concert so many will not want to miss."Judith
"Congratulations! It was a very interesting program and I enjoyed it very much. "John
" What a charming night, glad you let us know about the concert. Congratulation!"Wu Shu Chen
"I truly enjoyed the concert, what a beautiful performance!!! Thanks for an unforgettable night!! "Yen-Li
Copyright 2009 Musical Arts International Inc. All rights reserved.