Kerson Leong, violin
Tu Mach, piano
Kudos to WQXR for providing a virtual Midday Masterpieces. (I know, I’m woefully late in reporting.)
Ysaÿe: Allemande from Violin Sonata No. 4
Bach: Andante from Violin Sonata No. 2
Kreisler: Liebesleid (with Tu Mach, piano)
Ysaÿe: Allegretto poco Scherzoso from Violin Sonata No. 1
Kreisler: Recitativo and Scherzo
Tarrega: Recuerdos de la Alhambra (arr. Ricci)
Raff: Cavatina (with Tu Mach, piano)
With all of that, Mr. Leong played very well and his mother (Tu Mach) was a very generous supportive artist. With the exception of the two works accompanied by piano, these were solo violin pieces. The concert, though, was a little heavy on ‘down’-ish music. This is pretty much to be expected in these pandemic times. I’m not sure, though, what the correct balance should be between somber and uplifting.
In terms of a pre-recorded concert … um, it was pre-recorded. I would much prefer a live recording with at least some sort of audience, even if it couldn’t include me. And I know this sounds oxymoronic, but if there are costume changes (his shirt), then how much can we be convinced that it was ‘live’?
Also, it was presented in partnership with The Violin Channel. As a result, it sounded to me as though his living room recording studio was slightly enhanced in terms of sound editing (specifically a little reverb).
So I’m grateful that WQXR kept us in the virtual loop but less than impressed with the virtual result.
ConcertMeister
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