MH Chamber Music Series 2024-25 Season - I @ Vivace International School of Music

Location

Vivace International School of Music

Dun Huang Plaza Location | 9889 Bellaire Blvd #D261, Houston, TX 77036

Time

07:00 PM | Feb. 22, 2025 (Sat.)

Ticket (In-Hall or Online)

All donations go to the Music Houston Scholarship Fund to support talented young musicians in need of financial assistance: www.VivaceMusic.org/event

Recital Etiquette: www.VivaceMusic.org/sre

VMR Videos: www.youtube.com/VivaceMusic

VMR Photos: www.facebook.com/VivaceMusic.org

Audience Age Limit: 6 Years Old & Above (Excluding Current Vivace Students)

PROGRAM

Algues by Bernard Andres (b. 1941)

Ms. Julia Tondera | Violin

Dr. Yirui Li | Harp

Bernard Andres’ “Algues” for harp and violin is a contemporary piece that explores the interplay of textures and sounds, creating a dynamic and evocative atmosphere. The title, meaning "seaweeds" in French, reflects the work's organic, flowing character, which mirrors the movement and rhythm of ocean life. The piece combines delicate, shimmering harp arpeggios with expressive violin lines, blending together to create a rich soundscape. Through unconventional techniques and a delicate balance between the two instruments, it evokes both the serenity and the subtle turbulence of nature, drawing the listener into a contemplative and immersive sonic world.

Hungarian Dances by Johannes Brahms (1833-1897)

Dr. Nicole Sun | Piano

Mr. Ming Yang | Piano

The Hungarian Dances by Johannes Brahms, are a set of 21 lively dance tunes based mostly on Hungarian themes, completed in 1879.

They vary from about a minute to five minutes in length. Each dance has been arranged for a wide variety of instruments and ensembles. However, Brahms originally wrote the version for piano four hands.

1. G minor: Allegro molto

2. F minor: Poco sostenuto – Vivace

3. F♯ minor: Allegro – Vivace

4. A major: Allegretto – Vivo

Sonata per Flauto e Arpa by Nino Rota (1911–1979)

Dr. Angela Lai | Flute

Dr. Yirui Li | Harp

A lively and engaging composition, the "Sonata per Flauto e Arpa" blends classical elegance with a playful touch. It features delightful contrasts between the flute and harp. The work showcases Rota’s rich Italian musical heritage, moving between playful, lyrical, and spirited moods.

Morceau de Concert Opus 154 by Camille Saint-Saëns (1835–1921)

Dr. Yirui Li | Harp

Mr. Ming Yang | Piano

One of Saint-Saëns' beloved concert pieces, this work for harp captures grandeur and virtuosity. Its technical brilliance showcases the harp's expressive range, combining lyricism with dazzling passages

Introduction et Allegro by Maurice Ravel (1875–1937)

Mr. Kevin Hwang | Violin

Mr. Xiangwei Sun | Violin

Dr. Christopher Williams | Viola

Mr. Vyacheslav Dobrushkin | Cello

Dr. Yirui Li | Harp

Dr. Angela Lai | Flute

Mr. Roman Cisneros | Clarinet

Ravel’s "Introduction et Allegro" is one of the most important 20th-century works for harp, blending elements of French elegance and Impressionist texture. The piece is full of rich, colorful harmonies and rhythmic vitality, demonstrating the harp’s full potential as both a solo and ensemble instrument.