Return

I'm back after a couple of weeks away from our dear blogosphere, and I'll simply say that I managed to get myself to a few terrific concerts, only one of which I'll write about here.  It took place at the Wigmore on December 7th and featured violinist Kathy Gowers and pianist Charles Owen playing Schubert's Sonatina D385, Messiaen's Theme and Variations, and violin sonatas by Bartók (2nd) and Strauss.  The audience was robust, and primarily made up of friends, family, and fellow musicians, the latter being of a particular type, namely the extremely talented, non-hotdogging variety, like Rachel Podger and Julius Drake.  Gowers, who's a musician's musician only in the sense that one probably needs to play the violin to fully realize how insanely gifted she is, played wonderfully, particularly with regard to the Strauss sonata and the second and third movements of Bartok's effort.  She has a good ear for phrasing, and one of the steadiest bow arms around, features that combine to allow her to shape the music with complete control.  Owen has similar talents, and plays with a subtle humour that complements Gowers style in a highly effective way, sometimes acting as a foil, sometimes as a cunning ally.   The two have released a recital cd, which is unfortunately rather difficult to find, but not impossible, as is evidenced by the fact that you can buy it here.