TUTTE LE CORDE (3/5/2011)

Marilyn Nonken is the relatively new head of the piano program at NYU.  As a specialist in modern music I am sure she was selected with the idea that she would get students and faculty on board with piano music by living composers.  To that end she has established an annual recital where students play music composed since 1950, a time frame that provides much latitude.  Eleven students from six different studios performed.

The recital was framed by American works that, while relatively recent, look back on American music of the early twentieth century, "The Serpent's Kiss" by William Bolcom and two arrangements of Gershwin songs ("I'd Rather Charleston" and "Our Love is Here to Stay") by Michael Finnissy.  Other repertoire reflected a healthy diversity of styles.  For me, the standout performances were of Stockhausen's Klavierstuck IX (by a freshman!) and Mompou's poignant Varations sur un theme de Frederic Chopin.

Some works call for such extended techniques as string preparation, use of mallets, and playing directly on the strings.  A clearly novelty piece, Brooklyn, October 5, 1951 requires the performer to play almost the entire piece using two baseballs and a mitt.  It was a very clever work that had some musical substance and was not merely novelty fluff.  I learned that the date of the title was when the Brooklyn Dodgers lost the World Series.  I also later learned that the composer, Annie Gosfield, often uses unconventional resources in her works.

Another work that stood out in my mind was Opalesque Sonata by Akira Nishimura.  Although the composer's name sounds Japanese, the work reflected elements of Messiaen along with what to my ears were Middle Eastern aspects.  This very difficult one-movement work was most impressive although I felt it went on too long for what it had to say.  Although the performer was most accomplished, a more mature performance might project a longer overall arch and therefore create less of a rambling effect.

Other composers represented on the program were Lowell Liebermann, David Rakowski, Carles Guinovart and Stephen Burke.  Overall, it was a very satisfying evening and it is always gratifying to hear relatively new piano repertoire that is worthy of study and performance.  Congratulations to all.