Five Premières at lunchtime!

Lunchtime concerts are not usually associated with programmes of new music, however on Friday 16 May ILAMS did just this and took the plunge, presenting the duo of Iñigo Alonso (bass clarinet) and Philip Howard (piano). Both are very talented musicians, with strong individual musical personalities, who each believe in promoting new music.

Audience response is the major obstacle to overcome with new music, but the duo were not deterred and boldly presented five works from Spain and Venezuala, all of which were either UK or World Premières. The duo selected these all relatively short pieces, written not to shock, but rather to communicate clear musical ideas. The styles varied considerably, but were better understood through Iñigo’s verbal introductions.

The other interesting feature of the concert was the presence of the extraordinary bass clarinet as a solo instrument. Looking like a cross between clarinet and a saxophone, the instrument rests between the legs, as does a cello, however the sonorities and effects that Iñigo coaxed from its reeds were at times extraordinary. At times Philip was required to draw dark sonorities from the strings, but always played a creative rather than subservient roll.

The programme included the following:

NinoDiaz: Octubre 

Icli Zitella:Necrólogo

Hilario Extremiana: Recuerdo (solo bass clarinet solo)

Agapito Galan: Ubu paratrooper

Marianela Arocha Bernal: Diálogos

The wet weather may have suppressed the audience level, but did not dampen its enthusiasm and afterwards members of the audience expressed their appreciation verbally. Several commented on our bold venture approvingly and expressed their hope that we will try and present new music more regularly.

As a postscript, it is worth recalling that I previously reviewed and recommended the CD of contemporary Basque chamber music from The Trio Bernaola, of whom Iñigo is a member. If you are interested you can order a copy through Clara Walton.

Ray Picot