Listening to the Reverie Bassoon and Piano Recital of Lily and Mavroudes on the 25th of January in the Opus 4 – Sorodha Art Gallery was more an emotional experience than a concert. The well-known Elegy by Faure possessed a lilting beauty that was tinged with sadness. Lush, heartfelt swathes Russian romantic melodies by Scriabin’s Romance and Rachmaninoff’s Vocalise delivered in the warm tones of the bassoon made for a delightfully indulgent evening. Just before the interval, Lily and Mavroudes performed the famous Romanian Folk Dances by Bartok and the smoky Oblivion by Piazzolla, pouring their heart and soul into the music.
The ever-popular aria ‘Mon coeur s’ouvre a ta voix’ from Saint-Saens’ Samson et Dalila was up after the break followed by the Recital’s title idea, Reverie by Verdalle. Lily and Mavroudes led a flowing passionate account of both pieces, using the gradation of dynamics to great effect. The next 3 little pieces ‘From Jewish Life’ by Bloch were transcribed by Mavroudes himself. The first was the famous ‘Prayer’ which has become one of the most beloved compositions. Following, were the Supplication and Jewish Song that Mavroudes gave the impression were originally written for Bassoon.
The recital came to a fiery end with the Libertango by Piazzolla and the Danza ritual del Fuego from El Amor Brujo by Manuel de Falla, leaving the audience full of excitement and asking for more.
