By Asta Ballstadt
The Oriole Duo founding concert took place Saturday, April 23, 2011,
7:30 pm at the Heliconian Club in Toronto. The members of the duo
are Jacqueline Leung ( piano ) and Kaili Maimets ( flute). The hall
was suitable for this event creating an intimate atmosphere.
The artists presented a very demanding and varied programme that
displayed their outstanding musicianship and incredible technical
abilities. It was especially appreciated since it encompassed both
familiar and new repertoire; a musical treat. Following is an outline
of the selections:
Georges Enesco Cantabile and Presto ( 1904 )
Olivier Messiaen La Merle Noir ( 1951 )
Johann Sebastian Bach Sonata in E major BWV 1035 ( 1717 - 1723 )
Eldin Burton Sonatina for flute and piano ( 1947 )
Frederic Chopin Scherzo #1,B minor Opus 20 ( 1831 - 2 )
Luciano Berio Sequenza I per flauto solo ( 1958 )
Riho Esko Maimets lumena ( when I was snow ) ( 2010 )
Charles- Marie Widor Suite for flute and piano
Jacqueline Leung and Kaili Maimets introduced several of the pieces
thus helping the listener to better understand the music.
Riho Maimets, composer and brother of flautist Kaili Maimets, was
present and received the well deserved applause from the audience for
his composition " Lumena " with its beautiful harmony and sonority.
Jacqueline Leung and Kaili Maimets, both solo artists in their own
right, were able to establish an excellent feeling of ensemble.The
musical virtuosity of the duo shone through as they with ease
executed the technical demands of speed, complex rhythms and special
effects. The music was performed with beautiful phrasing and tone.
The standing ovation at the end of the concert was well deserved. We
look forward to future performances.
The concert was followed by a champagne reception.
