It just not possible to prepare for the ecstasy that is the Festival Artists Concerts at the Colorado College Summer Music Festival. From the moment that Stefan Hersh, Bion Tsang, Sue Grace hit the Haydn (Piano Trio) it was an entirely different world of music that I hadn’t experience since … well- last summer’s Festival. While the piece only blossomed in its Hungarian/Gypsy finale, the playing was exquisite. I hesitate to say perfect only because that would discount the spontaneity that was a part of this and all the music heard on this evening. These guys are amazing! It’s just the best.

I expect Tracey will report much the same in the Go! next Friday, but I can’t help but sing the praises of this specific component of this truly world-class event we happen to have a few blocks north of downtown.

The sensational wind faculty (Elizabeth Mann, flute; Robert Walters, oboe; Jon Manasse, clarinet Stewart Rose, horn; Michael Kroth, bassoon) plus Anne Epperson’s immaculate piano came next and treated us to some sensational Blumer (who?) followed by the oddly appealing Divertimento by Boris Blacher which brought two new Festival additions- both from the celebrated American Brass Quintet - Kevin Cobb, trumpet; John Rojak, trombone; (I guess they stopped over on their way to Aspen) with Sue Grace donning her 20th century voice—the one she wears as well as anyone anywhere.

But no one expected the Fabulous Fish Fry – A Schubert Trout Quintet to end all Trouts. I can’t get either the music or the image of these musicians- Steven Copes, violin; Phillip Ying, viola; David Ying, cello; Susan Cahill, bass; and Jon Nakamatsu, piano- literally making passionate love to every note and nuance. What a Treat was this Trout.

The Festival has become a sacred Pilgrimage for all—Faculty, students (can’t wait to hear their playing) and mostly for the audience that values their seats like precious gems. Get in on it if you can…

http://www.coloradocollege.edu/SummerPrograms/SummerFestivaloftheArts/MusicFestival/concertschedule.asp

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