CCCNY got a treat from former member Jahja Ling with limited seating for his concert with pianist Lola Astanova, of the former Soviet Union.
I am writing this so I can throw away the brochure.
Astanova's performance, which was from memory, was well received. However, some have noticed minor mistakes and the New York Times complained she lacked passion.
Everyone loved Jahja's conducting, of which I didn't pay much attention as I do not know how to judge it.
The accompanying orchestra was Orchestra of St. Luke. One of its cello member was Arthur Fiacco, who also played for OSNY. Looking him up, I stumbled upon the fact that his "partner" is Kent Tritle, conductor of OSNY. I read an article on their lives together, nothing repugnant at all. This lead me to consider how sexually irrelevant many gay cases are, not that I know any intimate lifestyle of the Tritle/Fiacco couple.
I only decided to go to the concert after learning of the pieces being played. Tante Lyna or Rev. Lin love to invite people to concerts held by people they know. I however, not having much time, must choose the pieces first, performers secondary.
The pieces played are well known by many:
1. Suppe (1819-1895) Overture to Light Calvary
2. Tchaikovsky (1840-1893) Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-Flat minor, Op. 23 Allegro non troppo e molto maestoso-allegro con spirit
Andantino semplice-Prestissimo
Alegro con fuoco
3. Smetana (1824-1884) Three Dances from The Bartered Bride Polka
Furiant
Skonca: Dance of the Comedians
4. Rachmaninoff (1873-1943) Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18
Moderato
Adagio sostenuto
Allegro scherzando
After the performance, Rev. Lin had Ning Ning call everyone to backstage to meet the musicians. I, Nadia and Willy passed and went home. We weren't the only ones. I thought, it's unnecessary. I am grateful for the invitation tickets, but I'll pass the privilege of a backstage groupie.