Await two famous concertos on violin and piano by mother daughter duo
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Hadar Rimon and Natasha Tadson
If you have come to expect sublime lyricism and melody from Tchaikovsky, his violin concerto will certainly not disappoint. One of the most popular pieces of music ever written, this concerto is nevertheless described as the “most fiendishly difficult of all violin concertos.” This work is not just about display, but interlaces passages of rare and delicate beauty with what can only be called a daring high-wire act for the performer.
Here to perform this iconic work with the Symphony Orchestra of Sri Lanka (SOSL) is captivating Israeli violinist, Hadar Rimon, one of the featured artists at Virtuosi in Concert on April 7 at the Ladies’ College Hall.
A distinguished graduate of the Buchmann-Mehta School of Music in Tel-Aviv, as well as of Zurich University of the Arts, Hadar Rimon has enchanted audiences performing regularly in recitals and chamber music concerts in Israel and abroad with her mother, pianist Natasha Tadson.
Virtuosi in Concert will also feature Grieg’s hugely popular piano concerto, performed by Natasha Tadson. Born in the former Soviet Union, Natasha Tadson is the winner of numerous major international competitions.
Virtuosi in Concert, sponsored by the People’s Bank, will feature both Hadar and Natasha, performing with the SOSL, under the baton of resident conductor Dushyanthi Perera.
Extracts from a Q and A session with Hadar:
Why did you choose the Tchaikovsky violin concerto for this performance ?
Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto is one of my favourite pieces, it is one of the most beautiful pieces for violin ever written, and I am sure the audience will enjoy this incredible music.
What is your opinion of this concerto in terms of its impact on the player and on the audience?
For the player, it is a very challenging piece, it is extremely virtuosic and emotional at the same time. Its rich melodies and musical drive are always moving for both the audience and the soloist.
This piece was written soon after Tchaikovsky’s disastrous marriage ended. Is the composer’s personal life reflected in the music?
It is true this piece was written shortly after Tchaikovsky’s marriage to Antonina Miliukova ended. He had gone to Switzerland to recuperate, and there he composed the Concerto. I am sure the composer’s difficult relationship with Antonina, which brought him to a very difficult state of mind at the time, had influenced his work which is filled with a wide range of emotions, from deep sadness to great hope and joy.
You have performed at many concerts, both home and abroad and participated in many international competitions. Is there any particular event that stands out as the most memorable of all?
I feel great joy every time I perform, each time is special and memorable for me. Most recently I could mention a very joyful moment in my professional life, I was invited to play as a soloist the Brahms Violin Concerto with Haifa Symphony Orchestra, where I work as Concertmaster of the orchestra, and this was very special for me to share this performance with my colleagues.
Extracts from a Q and A with Natasha:
Grieg’s piano concerto is considered one of the most loved of all concertos. How do you feel playing this piece, especially as it is so familiar?
Grieg’s Piano Concerto is a beloved piece for both the soloist and the audience, but for me it holds a special memory of my professional career. It was the first Concerto I performed as a soloist with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra when I was 18 together with conductor Paul Paray. It is a pleasure to return to it every time.
How would you describe
this concerto?
It is fresh, melodic, virtuosic, dynamic, and beautiful.
After your Carnegie Hall debut you were invited to participate at the Malrboro Music Festival, considered classical music’s most coveted retreat. Was this under the artistic direction of Mitsuko Uchido and what was the experience like?
It was a very special experience, incredible atmosphere, fantastic musicians. When I was there, the festival was under the direction of Rudolf Serkin, legendary pianist. I was there twice, and worked with brilliant musicians such as Brunu Canino, Rudolf Serkin, Ivan Galamian and many more.
Tickets and box plan are available at the Lionel Wendt Theatre.