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29 August 2011
A talented and inspiring quartet
The Meler Ensemble is a talented young group comprising Andrew Tyson (piano), Josef Spacek (violin), Amanda Verner (viola) and Aliesha Verner (cello). Still studying or furthering their careers in America and Europe, this recently formed group bring a fresh but mature approach to their music.
Mozart's Piano Quartet in G minor was the first work in a well-balanced programme. This also proved to be the outstanding performance of the concert. Here the piano plays a pivotal performance role in establishing the style and phrasing so essential in Mozart's music.
Tyson's approach to dynamics and observance of nuances anchored an inspired performance.
Piano Quartet in A minor by Turina required some major tonal adjustments by the players to achieve the necessary hard-edged Spanish flavour. As this work progressed, violinist Spacek, a soloist in his own right, produced some strong references to the dance and guitar heritage of Spanish music.
Earlier this year, the Meler commissioned Antony Verner, brother of Amanda and Aliesha, to compose a piece for them.
The resulting Hill Where the Wind Dances is a short, lightly constructed piece. Both wind and music are heard and experienced but not seen.
This composition successfully evokes the clatter of urban detritus or the flying of seedheads and dry grass in a rural summer landscape on a windy day.
The involvement of three siblings was a unique experience; there remains the possibility of Verner composing a suite or book of sketches or tone pieces.
The highly romantic Dvorak Piano Quartet op.87 was performed in a bold and frenetic fashion, much to the pleasure of the audience.
Of note were the rich bass tones of the piano and cello, which combined so perfectly. As the work developed, each player had their passages of prominence, highlighting the combined ability of this ensemble.
Throughout the recital, be the music complex, frenzied or otherwise, attention to detail was never abandoned.
If this quartet are able to keep in touch, they have the prospect of a bright future.
Violinist Martin Risley and pianist Deidre Irons conclude the society's series this year at Montana on Friday, September 16.