MUSIC REVIEW: Ukrainian musicians perform in Ann Arbor (05/14/00)

MUSIC REVIEW: Ukrainian musicians perform in Ann Arbor

by Petro Lisowsky

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - On April 6 two Ukrainian-born musicians astounded a capacity audience with their performance in Ann Arbor's Kerrytown historical district. Eastman School of Music violinist Solomia Soroka, with her colleague University of Michigan Music School student Irena Portenko performed a repertoire of relatively contemporary "classical" music with passion, diligence, tenderness and, at times, robust virtuosity.

The quaint Kerrytown Concert House was the venue of choice for this eventful evening. Approximately 50 Ukrainians and area residents watched and listened with studious intent as Ms. Soroka skillfully traversed through seemingly atonal passages and Ms. Portenko ornamented the musical lines with melodic asides and theme developments. It was not the traditional "violin with piano accompaniment" concert, as many are. Instead, there appeared to have been a more equal relationship, a balance, even a dialogue between the two performers through their instruments. As one played, the other listened; once finished "speaking," the formerly quiet participant would respond by means of restating or sharing the common melody, but answering using a different modulation. Chausson's Poème, op. 25, exemplified this relationship eloquently.

Other compositions, however, would have just the opposite effect. The duo, especially during the performance of César Franck's Sonata in A-major, would create such intensity that it seemed a firestorm was brewing from their interpretation of the music. The theme would be stated, then developed, then compounded by more technical and virtuosic passages, culminating in a powerful eruption of inner obsession, only to be abated by a single calm harmonic. The duo paradoxically worked in tandem to express this musical discord.

The final piece, Czardas No. 2 by Jenö Hubay (1858-1937), was quite a crowd-pleaser. This perky Hungarian dance song spurred a joyful and carefree reaction from the audience. The melodic passages were technically difficult and uncannily swift, yet playful and non-problematic in the least for the performers. Ms. Soroka displayed her true mastery on the violin, with Ms. Portenko supporting and fostering her every note. The audience truly cradled this work. When the finale was over, thunderous applause, a standing ovation and three curtain calls ensued. Flowers were presented to the performers as a token of the audience's expression of sincere thanks to Ms. Soroka and Ms. Portenko for executing such a pleasing event.

After the concert's conclusion, a reception followed, sponsored jointly by the Ann Arbor branch of the Ukrainian National Women's League of America and the University of Michigan Ukrainian Club.

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