Liesl Stoltz (flute) and Pedro Rodrigues (guitar) in concert in UPE Auditorium.
The classical guitar, because of its more intimate and gentle sound, cannot be paired with just any instrument.
The flute and guitar duo, for example, is an ideal combination because of the matching lightness of the flute’s sound texture.
The programme began with a short Entr’acte by Ibert, followed by a three movement Gran Duetto Concertante by Giuliani.
In both these works the obvious intentions of the composers are that, except for the solos, the guitar should be in the background simply providing harmonic support to the flute, and not detracting the audience’s attention from that melodic line. The duo’s balance, however, was not always ideal on this occasion, with the guitar at times almost dominating the sound with broken cord accompaniments. In themselves a little less than interesting. This was a pity, because the flute playing of Liesl Stoltz is outstanding.
Throughout the concert she impressed with her wonderful control of the phrasing, her tone quality and musicality. She shows an admirable combination of polish and style combined with an excellent technique.
The programme, on the other hand, ended with an arrangement of Movements Perpetuels by Poulenc and Histoiri du Tango and, in both these works, the guitar and flute are intended to have more equal performances.
Rodrigues has a very secure guitar technique and an easy stage presence. It was particularly in the latter part of the programme that he impressed with his guitar skills although he did at times force a rather harsh sound form his instrument.
Other works by well known classical guitar composers Castelnuovo-Tedesco and Villa-Lobos were performed each side of the interval and were well received by the audience fascinated by some of the more modern techniques presented in the guitar part.
Howard Nock
The Herald