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PROGRAM REVIEWS

PROGRAM REVIEWS for the individual concerts will be posted here as they become available.

HORSZOWSKI TRIO, JANUARY 26, 2025

For the third concert of their 84th season, the Chamber Music Society of Utica presented the outstanding Horszowski Trio.

The trio was named after the great, pre-eminent pianist Mieczyslaw Horszowski who lived from 1892 to 1993. The trio’s pianist, Rieko Aizawa, was Horszowski’s last pupil at the Curtis Institute in Philadelphia. As a pianist myself living in New York City, in 1991 I was fortunate to hear Horszowski give his last recital in Carnegie Hall at the age of 99. It was a triumph!

This varied piano trio program included works by Haydn, Schoenberg, Bolcom and Smetana. The musicians talked about their love of the music and I was able to sit back, relax and experience these talented and skilled artists bring the music to life!

 

Several international students from Utica University were also in attendance, and for many of them, it was their first time hearing a live classical music concert. They found it to be “compelling, relaxing, calming and inspiring!”.

 

It was most interesting that pianist Rieko Aizawa composed her own arrangement for piano, violin, viola and cello (also including several percussion instruments) of Arnold Schoenberg’s Six Little Piano Pieces. Originally a solo piano piece, it was subsequently adapted for various other instruments, including guitar.

 

This version was truly imaginative and compelling! With a standing ovation, this concert was well received and 

Anita Humer

Professional pianist, accompanist and piano teacher
former staff pianist at Colgate University

Serves on boards of CMSU, the Leschetizky Piano Organization, NYC

and the Monday Evening Music Club of Norwich NY

The Horszowski Trio delivered a stunning performance, showcasing remarkable
musicianship and deep connection. From the first notes of Haydn’s Piano Trio No.
25 in E Minor to the powerful finale of Smetana’s Piano Trio in G Minor, their unity
and technical mastery captivated the audience.


The program spanned diverse musical styles, beginning with Haydn’s elegance and
charm. Their refined, fluid playing in the Allegro moderato set the stage for a
beautifully expressive Andante, followed by a lively Rondo. Schoenberg’s Sechs
Kleine Klavierstücke, arranged by pianist Rieko Aizawa, provided a fresh take on
modernist textures, performed with clarity and engagement.


After intermission, the trio maintained their captivating presence, demonstrating
exceptional expressiveness and tight ensemble work. Their interpretation of
Smetana’s Piano Trio in G Minor was particularly moving, as they beautifully
conveyed its deeply touching melodies and compelling storytelling. From the
melancholic opening lines to the fiery and emotionally charged finale, each phrase
was shaped with nuance, and their dynamic contrasts heightened the dramatic
impact, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.


As a page-turner, I had the unique opportunity to observe their precise
communication firsthand. Every cue and gesture between them was effortlessly
coordinated, demonstrating a profound musical understanding. Their sound
blended so seamlessly that it felt as if they were moving as a single entity. At times,
the intensity and beauty of their playing were so overwhelming that I caught myself
holding my breath, completely drawn into their artistry.


The Horszowski Trio is one of today’s finest chamber ensembles. Their ability to
merge technical brilliance with deep musicality made for an unforgettable afternoon,
leaving the audience in awe.

Rebecca, Ting-Yun Wu

Pianist, Hornist, Educator
Staff Pianist at Colgate University
Music Instructor at YMCA of Central New York

© 2020  Chamber Music Society of Utica,   P.O. Box 8149 Utica, NY 13505    Designed by: Jessica Loy   Created with Wix.com

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