A Review of The Archduke

It is indeed a privilege to be offered such a high standard at NCMA lunchtime concerts.

The performance of Beethoven’s Archduke Trio for Piano, Violin and Cello today was beyond all expectations. Mary Ayre played Beethoven’s role on piano with perfect rhythm and emotional interpretation. Her talented daughter, Juliet, responded to every nuance of mood, and cellist, James Donaldson; showed musical rapport and individual expression on ‘cello. Their technical brilliance and expressive dynamics brought the music alive.

The Archduke Trio is one of Beethoven’s last and most difficult pieces of chamber music, expressing furious excitement, grieving melancholy, spirited defiance and unrequited love in turn. It lasted for 45 minutes and the audience was vociferous in their applause.

Our local musicians are raising the standard of our musical choices. For me, NCMA under the leadership of James Donaldson is going from strength to strength.