Last Friday, 21st March, our members gathered for a recital by cellist Gen Li (from Chengdu, China) accompanied by Charles Matthews, Patron of our Society. After gaining his B. Mus with 1st class honours, Gen is now studying for a Master of Music at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. Since 2019 he has won numerous awards as a soloist but is also an enthusiastic orchestral musician being principal cellist of the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Charles Matthews has also won many awards both here and abroad and works extensively with young performers, acts as piano accompanist and organ tutor at the RBC and regularly works on music courses in the UK and abroad. He is always busy!
Our recital began with “Siciienne” by Faure (1845-1924). Originally composed as part of the orchestral score for a theatre production of “Pelleas and Melisande”, the theatre went bankrupt so the production was cancelled! Faure himself made the transcription for cello and piano and would, I’m sure, have enjoyed Gen’s rich, legato performance. After the well- known “Chanson de Matin” of Elgar (1857-1934) it was time for music unknown (at least for me!) - “Sonata” by Shostakovich (1906-1975). Four contrasting movements, the first beginning with a lively, playful section before a mysterious atmosphere, created by repeated LH chords in a constant rhythm, set the background for the more lyrical cello part exploring the whole range of the instrument. A very fast, playful section then gave way to Largo, a slow, wistful melody leading to the Finale – a romp – with playful exchanges between cello and piano. Exciting but still controlled – a superb performance to bring us to the interval – and refreshments -- with much to discuss.
“Apres un Reve”, another lovely piece by Faure brought us gently back to the serene state of mind that one might experience after a pleasant dream. It again highlighted Gen’s ability to create the atmosphere with sonorous legato to match Charles’ sensitive accompaniment. “Sonata” by Cesar Franck (1822 – 1890) with its four contrasting movements, was Gen’s choice to end his recital. These movements again highlighted not just Gen’s superb technique for playing the cello but also his ability to interpret the music that he selects for his performance. That, combined with the excellent accompaniment from Charles Matthews resulted in an evening of superb musicianship by two performers who clearly enjoyed playing for us and were rewarded by rapturous applause from all those present.
