Each performer received warm applause in their own right, and
their strong performances, as soloists or in ensemble, made for a memorable
evening. (Review by Stavros Anthias)
Last Tuesday’s friends of music concert, featuring
Christopher Duigan, David Salleras and Federico Freschi, drew one of the
largest audiences I have ever seen at The Jewish Centre, which was very
pleasing, to say the least.
They performed an eclectic mix of varied works, and Durban
was lucky to get a taste of a recital which is going to be performed at The
Grahamstown Festival.
Duigan and Salleras have enjoyed a long collaboration of
making music together. Duigan is one of our top pianists and is a celebrated
Steinway Artist. Salleras has been hailed as one of the top saxophonists in the
world and enjoys an international career. They were joined by baritone Federico
Freschi in a programme of classical, contemporary, and jazz music, and popular
song.
Pizzella’s works never fail to impress, and Duigan and
Salleras have developed a sophisticated rapport and empathy as they perform,
which was showcased in the opening item, Milonga
and Re.
Two of the highlights of the evening were performances of
their own compositions, Duigan’s whimsical and impressive Nocturne No.2 and Salleras’ Rentandote
a very rhythmic and tango inspired composition.
Salleras has amazing breath control, and produces a
beautifully smooth sound, which is perfectly accompanied by Duigan’s sensitive
playing. Morricone’s Nella Fantasia
(Gabriel’s oboe) which translated beautifully as a solo sax work, and
Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata were two
of my personal favourites. A composition by Phil Woods titled Sonata for Alto Sax (we heard the 1st
movement) was also very impressive with its jazz improvisation style, which
allowed Salleras to show his expertise on his instrument.
Freschi performed the popular Largo al factotum from Rossini’s Barber of Seville, and popular songs from Carousel, My Fair Lady
and some art songs. He has a rich, strong baritone voice and he chose his
repertoire wisely, ensuring it was well-suited to his voice. Each performer
received warm applause in their own right, and their strong performances, as
soloists or in ensemble, made for a memorable evening.
The Prelude Performers, Ariana Carini and Alexander
Comninos, both on classical guitar, and students of master guitarist James
Grace also impressed with their performance, which showed nimble fingerwork and
great musicality. – Stavros Anthias
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