16 October 2024

Yamaha workout

Stuart Long appeared at Wesley with a collection of melodic gems.  Thus was the concert entitled.  It was a forceful grouping, played with plenty of energy and dynamics.  First up Beethoven with Andante favori, apparently a second movement that was too long for his Waldstein Sonata.  Attractive as ever.  Then Grieg Piano sonata E min op.7.  Stuart explained this is unusual as a longer piece by Grieg, comprising four movements and interestingly featuring his initials (E,H[=Bb],G) as the first notes of the first movement and also appearing otherwise through the work.  Memories of the Bach motif.  Then two nocturnes by Faure with notable melodies.  Stuart is committed and strong in his playing and no less here.  This was handfulls of volume and massive presence.  The Yamaha C6 got a solid workout.  Loved it.  And note the mics.  Paul turned up and we ended up with 3 stereo recordings for comparisons.  Fascinating for some!

Stuart long played Beethoven, Grieg and Faure at Wesley.

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