By Kirsten Bolton for ArtSpring
At the heart of the repertoire of nearly all cellists, Bach’s Cello Suites are among the most appreciated works of classical music lovers around the world.
Returning to ArtSpring this Saturday, Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. to perform a special “pre-season” concert is Juno-winning American-Canadian cellist, gambist and researcher Elinor Frey, who has performed across the Americas and in Europe in recital and with numerous chamber orchestras, such as Rosa Barocca, Constantinople, Les idées heureuses, Il Gardellino, Tafelmusik and Pacific Baroque Orchestra.
Frey, whose style has been described by Gramophone Review as “elegant, playful and generous,” will be performing the exquisite Cello Suites 1, 4 and 5.
“The suites highlight how Bach is especially adept at mixing particular characteristics of the cello,” explained Frey. “Because of its unique range, from the low bass to the soprano, the cello is able to create the illusion of multiple voices, a polyphony inspired by the use of Bach’s harmony and melody, wonderful techniques that intrigue the ear at every moment.”
The baroque suites were said to be composed around 1720 when Bach lived in Cöthen in the service of Prince Leopold, when his secular and instrumental music included works for solo violin and the famous Brandenburg concertos.
Frey’s presentation coincides with a pre-concert ArtSpring volunteer appreciation event, an annual wine and cheese mingler to thank and recognize ArtSpring’s close to 80 volunteers who contribute to box office shifts, duty managing, poster distribution and artist billeting. Volunteers were also offered special pricing to enjoy the concert.
“Volunteers are critical to our operations and being able to bring the arts, both local productions and international performers, to our community,” said Howard Jang, executive and artistic director. “We’re thrilled to be able to show our thanks with organized events like this, reduced or complimentary tickets and opportunities to join advisory roundtable committees. It really strengthens the fabric of our island.”
Tickets for the Frey concert are available through the box office, and include the $15 Angel Program seating aimed to make the arts more accessible to all. Those interested in learning more about volunteering are invited to contact the box office.