#two violins

Beginning with the graceful flow of Canzonetta-Andante and ending with the powerful character of Chaconne in G minor, this performance by two violins and piano highlights the contrast between two timeless works at a student concert.

Johanna Senfter (1879-1961) - Suite for Two Violins No. 1, Op. 91/1: V. Gigue ·

Bach - Concerto for 2 violins in d minor, BWV. 1043 (c.1720)

The “Double” concerto has become one of Bach’s more popular works. I think the popularity comes from the clear Vivaldi influence, and how the music has the same sense if spontaneity and flow, while at the same time including fugal and canon like moments in the instruments. It also does a good job of balancing the two soloists so neither violin outshines the other. The first movement rushes us into the drama with an orchestral introduction, and the soloists later come in with the melody in a call-and-response. The soloists’ passages are interrupted every now and then with the repetition of the tutti. I particularly love the moments where one soloist plays the theme as the other plays a drone note, that makes me think of old Medieval organum, or how the planets are fixed in orbit around the sun. Then comes the highlight of the work, the slow movement, which is a glorious passage of instrumental music. The two violins trade off the melody that weaves together over a slow but deliberately forward chord progression. The subtle dissonances that resolve right after they’re introduced keep us hooked to the next note, making an itch that it immediately scratches, and is almost drug like in making us long for consonance, and for repetition. I think this is why so many people love the movement, and why they are taken in almost as if by magic. The last movement brings us back to the minor key drama, and while the rhythm changes, it still carries us to the end in an energetic rush.

Movements:

1. Vivace

2. Largo ma non tanto

This is the First Movement of the Double Concerto in D Minor by Johann Sebastian Bach, with the Manila Symphony Orchestra. Playing the Solo I is yours truly, and the Solo II is violinist Lourdes Miguel.

I have been practicing this Double Concerto for so long, and because I was so engrossed and excited to do it years ago that I really made an effort to study it even when at that time, my technique wasn’t as established as it is today. I was studying the Vivaldi A Minor Concerto that time, and even so, I still wanted to play the Bach. I had this CD recording of the Bach Double that I would loop everyday and play along with it, whether it be the Solo I or Solo II! That was how ambitious I was to do at least the First Movement! I had both parts printed and I would really, really try to play along with the CD. I remember that everytime I make a mistake, I would stop the CD and I would just practice that problematic passage repeatedly, and then I would play the CD again. Soon it became such a part of my system that I was able to play both Solo parts of the First Movement, and hence it is part of my memory up to now.

My dream to play it with an orchestra was fulfilled in this video, and it felt so great that the music I once played along with the CD became a reality. Thank you, MSO for giving me this opportunity to play this wonderful piece of music composed by one great genius.

Arvo Pärt - Tabula Rasa

Dear Nikki,

Thank you for your offer to reserve me tickets to your performance! There's something very unique to me when I get to witness my friends pursuing their passions and executing at the top of their game; especially, after having known them prior to their days of "fame." It doesn't happen overnight and I know just how hard you, as well as our mutual friends, have been working over these years, so thank you for inviting me to be a part of your journey again.

Your personal reach out means a lot. (Even when I stumbled upon it first... but who knew I'd be in the city next month - I sure didn't!) I am beyond excited and am grateful to know that you are just as happy to have me there. 

When you were in the city last, I was also sitting in the audience, next to your mother and brother. This time, he'll be on stage too! Watching you two over the years and seeing you accomplish milestones has made me very happy for you. I say this in the most genuine, non-jealous way possible. (ha ha!)

All the best!