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Joshua Bell and Jeremy Denk illuminate Mozart and Beethoven at Rockport benefit-gala / The Boston Musical Intelligencer

Posted: July 30, 2024

The Boston Musical Intelligencer's Stephanie Oestreich writes….Rockport Music’s benefit-gala showcased an exquisite pairing of virtuosity and subtlety, featuring violinist Joshua Bell and pianist Jeremy Denk. Their performances of Mozart’s Piano and Violin Sonata No. 18 in G Major, K. 301, and Beethoven’s Piano and Violin Sonata No. 7 in C Minor, Op. 30 shared interpretative originality beyond the expected technical prowess. Set against the backdrop of the scenic Shalin Liu Center, the concert offered an experience as refined and compelling as the pieces themselves.

The Mozart began with an air of effortless elegance. Composed in 1778, the sonata is notable for its classical clarity and balanced structure. Bell’s take on the first movement, Allegro, was marked by a delicate balance between lightness and intensity. His warm and resonant tone on the Gibson ex Huberman Strad floated effortlessly over the piano’s gentle accompaniment. He and Denk dialogued seamlessly, each responding to the other’s cues with a conversational ease that belied the technical precision required. Denk’s discernment resulted in a supportive and subtly interactive harmonic foundation.

They rendered the piece with a lyrical sensitivity that highlighted Bell’s capacity for nuanced phrasing. He brought a contemplative quality, allowing the work’s reflectiveness to emerge naturally. Denk effective modified dynamics and tempo in complementing Bell’s lyrical lines without overshadowing them.

The Allegretto showcased the playful and upbeat nature of Mozart’s late period. Bell’s approach here was spirited and joyous, with a rhythmic vitality that conveyed the movement’s buoyancy. Denk’s sparkling, integral contribution provided a lively counterpoint to Bell’s agility. Their collaborative energy brought forth fresh and engaging qualities.

In transitioning to Beethoven’s Piano and Violin Sonata No. 7 in C Minor, Op. 30, the concert took on a darker and more intense tone. Composed in 1802, this sonata reflects Beethoven’s departure from the Classical norms into a more personal and expressive realm. The Allegro, opened with a brooding intensity that set the stage for a drama. Bell explored profound emotions, his articulation of the tempestuous themes conveying struggle and resolve. Denk’s robust yet controlled harmonic partnership that enhanced the dramatic impact.

The Andante contrasted with a lyrical and somewhat melancholic character. Bell’s tender expressiveness, phrasing and dynamic control drew out the movement’s introspective qualities. Denk’s role once again asserted a pivotal role. his delicate colorations adding an element of intimacy. Their especially poignant interplay underscored the movement’s emotional depth.

The concluding Allegretto burst with energy and rhythmic drive. Bell’s vivacious and confident approach allowed him to navigate the movement’s intricate passages with apparent ease. Denk answered with a dynamic and rhythmically precise, and drive that propelled the music forward. The thrilling and cohesive finale that left the audience energized and engaged.

In closing the duo delivered a breathtaking performance of the final two movements of Franck’s Violin Sonata. Bell’s passionate, lyricism perfectly intertwined with Denk’s keyboard nuances.

Their virtuosity, expressivity, and synergy perfectly propelled the sonata’s intensity, leaving the audience captivated. Their fresh and compelling interpretation revealing new dimensions through their collaborative artistry.

Rockport Music continues shine a beacon for exceptional musical experiences. This concert testified once again to the high caliber of talent it attracts, in this case, exceptional artistry from two of the world’s foremost practitioners. Artistic director Barry Shiffman has amazing persuasive powers.

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