"In The Twilight" - Asher Armstrong - Marbin Matinees Concert Series

March 24, 2024 | 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
2024-03-24 02:00 PM 2024-03-24 03:00 PM "In The Twilight" - Asher Armstrong - Marbin Matinees Concert Series Gordon Lightfoot Concert Hall America/New_York

This concert takes us on a captivating journey through classical compositions, beginning with Varvara Gaigerova's Four Sketches (1926). These pieces unveil the expressive world of the Russian artist, shaped by the influence of war and her fascination with Soviet minority nationalities.

Next, we encounter Ilse Fromm-Michaels' Piano Sonata, Op. 6 (1918), a powerful reflection on the impact of National Socialism on her career, inspired by the profound experiences of World War I.

Max Reger's transcription of Brahms's Four Serious Songs, Op. 121 (1896) adds a deeply personal touch to the concert, offering reflections on themes of death and love during a unique period in Brahms's life. Finally, the journey concludes with Johannes Brahms's Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 21, No. 1 (1861). Here, Brahms's rich chordal sonorities and intricate counterpoint invite the audience to explore a self-communing crossroads, encouraging contemplation of the renowned composer's artistic journey.

Recital Program:

Four Sketches (1926).......................................................................Varvara Gaigerova (1903-
1944)
I. Andante sostenuto
II. Agitato
III. Lento
IV. Appassionato

Piano Sonata, Op. 6 (1918)..........................................................Ilse Fromm-Michaels (1888-
1986)
I. Markig
II. Sehr langsam. Frei im Zeitmaß
III. Lebhaft, aber nicht schnell

Pause

Four Serious Songs, Op. 121 (1896)………...........................Johannes Brahms (1833-
1897)/Reger
I. Denn es gehet dem Menschen

Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 21, No. 1 (1861)...........................………...Johannes
Brahms

About Asher Armstrong

A passionate, committed teacher, Asher is on the Piano Faculty of the University of Toronto, and formerly served as Assistant Professor of Piano at the University of Arkansas.  Asher has also taught at the Interlochen School for the Arts (Interlochen, MI), the Indian Springs Academy of Music (Cincinnati, OH), and the Kingsway Conservatory of Music (Toronto, ON), and has served on faculty at a number of other community music schools.  While members of Asher’s studio have included competition prizewinners and students of some of the top musical institutions (such as Eastman, NEC, McGill, Manhattan, and CCM), he teaches students of all levels and backgrounds, and believes that every student should feel confident with the results of their piano study and musical growth.

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Tickets to the event are offered without cost. Donations are invited. Charitable tax receipts will be issued for donations over $20. All donations go to support emerging artists.