Review – Orenda Trio House Concert
Rhea Pfeifle, Denmark Bulletin
It felt as though the music from the Orenda Trio and the Sarabande Early Music group was overflowing from every nook and cranny of 5 Payne Road on June 9.
With their expert rendition of complex and evocative works by female composers Clara Schumann and Luise Adolpha Le Beau, and a captivating finale featuring Brahms, the Orenda Trio brought each piece to vibrant life to the very appreciative audience.
The concert itself paid homage to the recital tradition championed by Clara Schumann.
Not only was she a virtuosic pianist, but she was also a prolific composer and performer, instrumental in popularising small ensembles for recitals, all while raising eight children—an extraordinary feat in itself.
Opening the concert, the Orenda Trio, comprised of Adam Pinto on piano, Alix Hamilton on viola, and Michael Howell on flute, joined forces with Sarabande to deliver a stately and gentle Pavane by Ferrabosco.
The Orenda Trio then took the stage, mesmerising the audience with the powerful Trio in G minor by Clara Schumann, followed by the lovely piano trio in D minor by Le Beau.
As an extra treat, they concluded the evening with a Brahms intermezzo specially arranged by Michael’s son.
Drawing from the rich repertoire of 19th- century piano, violin and cello music, the Orenda Trio skillfully rearranges works to suit the configuration of their trio, consisting of piano, viola and flute.
This approach reaffirms and honours the chamber music tradition – a testament to playing together out of sheer love for the art, adapting scores when necessary and ultimately inviting friends to be part of the shared experience.
Rarely does one have the opportunity to witness the transcendent impact created by expert musicians who also clearly revel in the sheer joy of playing together.
The instruments blended seamlessly, producing a beautiful and harmonious sound enveloping the audience.
The Denmark community was truly fortunate to have this opportunity, and it is hoped that the Orenda Trio will include Denmark in their future southwest tours, continuing to share their remarkable talent with music enthusiasts in the region.
See all the pictures in the issue.
This article appeared in the Denmark Bulletin, 29 June 2023.
