Performance by the Novellus Ensemble, Essay Example

For this assignment, I attended a performance by the Novellus Ensemble at Grossmont College on September 25, 2015 at 7:00 PM.  This program featured a small ensemble, which included Lorie Kirkell on cello, Alyze Dreiling on viola and violin, and Ramon Negron on viola. The artists performed String Trio, Op. 3 in Eb, Bachianas Brasileiras #5, Trio Sonata #1, En Mi Viejo San Juan, Campanitas de Crystal, Romance, Verde Luz, Intermezzo, and Adios Nonino. Overall, the selection of music was enjoyable because the string performance captured music from many different cultures.

String Trio, Op. 3 in Eb appeared somewhat familiar because I have listened to other works by Beethoven. However, it appeared that the trio played their own interpretation of the song because it seemed to be livelier than I am accustomed to. This piece was interesting because it appeared to be comprised of many different themes. The violin played the main part at times, while the viola and the cello accompanied the primary harmony line. At times, all three instruments played their own line, which came together in a way that harmonized excellently. It seemed that more than one movement was included in this piece, although more than one movement was not listed in the program. It is possible that the composter elected to combine some elements of different songs in his rendition of this piece. Overall, it appeared that the music performed was of high quality, because it was similar to recordings that I have heard.

Trio Sonata #1 reminded me of the first piece because each musician played a similar part. The cello, viola, and violin came together in a complimentary manner. However, the themes of the music made the two pieces appear distinct. Since sonatas are typically made for instrumental soloists, it seemed that the violin was the primary line and the viola and cello served as the accompaniment. However, this altered at times and it appeared that either the viola or cello would take over this role. Since the music blended together well, it appeared that the performance was of high quality.

Bachianas Brasileiras #5 was much more energetic sounding than the two previously discussed pieces. Based on the name of the song, it appears that it is a Brazilian cultural piece, and the music itself reminded me of a tropic land. However, I believe that this music is typically performed using different instruments. I would expect drums, flutes, and other instruments that are typical of this region. However, it appeared that the high-pitched violin was used to take over for the traditional role of the flute. There was no percussion utilized either, so it appeared that the cello was used to keep the rhythm of the song. This piece motivated the audience to dance in their seats, so it is apparent that the goal of this piece was accomplished.

The next four songs, En Mi Viejo San Juan, Campanitas de Crystal, Romance, Verde Luz, were from Puerto Rico and these seemed as if they were meant to be danced to.  These pieces were different from the Brazilian piece, but appeared to share the same character. The music from both of these regions was highly lively and reminiscent of a culture that places an emphasis on music and dance.

Intermezzo, and Adios Nonino sounded like tango music that people would enjoy dancing to as well. The music was well performed, and it appeared that the musicians seemed to be highly knowledgeable about the pieces they performed. These two pieces were played one after another to show that they were connected in theme. In addition, it appears that the musicians handpicked these particular pieces because they were very passionate about their performance and used them to close the whole show. Overall. This piece was effective due to the emotions that the artists were able to convey as they performed.

Overall, it appeared that the performance was of high quality. All of the musicians seemed to be putting a lot of energy and effort into producing the music performed. The event was likely a success due to the hard work and dedication they used to learn and perform these pieces. It didn’t appear that any of the actions observed on stage were not typical. The artists looked as if they were accustomed to such performances and they matched the excitement they created with their instruments with excitement in their bodies. They moved as they played each piece, which contributed to the overall effectiveness of the performance. I was amazed that the performers were able to maintain stamina throughout the show, which is indicative of their talent. The whole performance appeared to be very meaningful for the musicians, as it appears that they have put a lot of time and effort into the creation of this program. Because the performance felt personal and was executed with skill, I would recommend them to others.  I am interested in seeing what types of music the Novellus Ensemble will perform next.