July 3rd, 2011 Seminar with St. Lawrence
The St. Lawrence String Quartet is Stanford University’s ensemble-in-residence. Every year for the past several years they offer chamber music instruction in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Participants focus on one or two major works in chamber music literature while learning the delicate art of cooperation as part of an intimate group.
A typical day includes coaching, scheduled rehearsal time, and an evening activity such as a master class, readings as a chamber orchestra, a guest presentation on related topics, sight reading sessions, or an informal barbecue. Unstructured time allows participants to pursue informal readings with others, or to explore the many delights of the Stanford campus and surrounding area as well.
Special guest faculty this year included: Timothy Ying, violin; Henk Guittart, viola; Suren Bagratuni, cello; Stephen Prutsman, piano; and Pedja Muzijevic, piano. Osvaldo Golijov participated as Composer in Residence
I attended the concert on Sunday, July 3rd, at which all 18 chamber music groups performed at least one movement from a chamber music work. I enjoyed this session a lot, because the music was great and the spirit of these young folks, as they embark on their respective music careers was really a thrill. I could only attend the first half of the concert, so I missed hearing several groups.
For me, the greatest enjoyment was to listen to the “Temple Street Trio” from Yale University as they performed the first movement from the “Archduke” trio, Op. 97 be Beethoven. The performers were:
• Ariel Borensztein, piano
• Jessica Oddie, violin
• Clare Monfredo, Cello
The program began with a totally enjoyable few minutes of singing by the staff and by the performers. Apparently they began their day of chamber music study by singing Madrigals and other songs, as a way of learning to listen to one another. Great idea, and a terrific way to begin the performance program, as well!
Here is a historic recording of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Piano trio no.7 in B flat major op.97 “Archduke” (I) – Allegro moderato. The performers are:
Daniel Barenboim, piano, Pinchas Zukerman, violin, and Jacqueline du Pré, cello,
Recorded in 1969:
Tags: Saint Lawrence String Quartet seminar at Stanford 2011, SLSQ