Dutch treat

Performing Arts & Entertainment in Canada, Fall, 1997 by Denis Nolan

Toronto's Old Mill, so rich in charm and history, was further embellished with great music at the CMC Ontario annual fund raising concert and tea in May. The theme was "Springtime in Holland" and generous sponsorship from the Consul General of the Netherlands was indicated by the tulips and wind-mills decorating the hall. Patrons were greeted by CMC supporter Evelyn Brenninkmeyer, who was dressed in traditional Dutch costume, even to the wooden shoes.

Alex Baran acted as master of ceremonies for a sparkling concert. Ronald Turini, a professor of music at the University of Western Ontario, convincingly demonstrated the rich tonal qualities and range of dynamic response of the Yamaha piano with his performances of Franz Schubert's Impromptu Op. 142 No. 3, followed by Nocturne in D flat Op.27 No. 2 and Etude Op. 10 No. 5, both by Frederic Chopin. Professor Turini then accompanied violinist Lorand Fenyves in a thrilling performance of the challenging Sonata in C Minor by Edvard Grieg. Professor Fenyves is a member of the faculty of the Glenn Gould Professional School of the Royal Conservatory of Music. He is also Concert Master emeritus of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.

Soprano Karen Wierzba of the Pre-Opera School, who was scheduled to be a soloist on the program, was unfortunately stricken with a strepto-coccal throat and unable to sing. Nevertheless, true to the tradition that "the show must go on", she acted as accompanist to her friend and colleague Alexandra Lennox, who sang selections by Schubert, Donizetti and Lehar. Alexandra is a final year student in the Opera Division, Faculty of Music, University of Toronto, and holds awards from both Peel and Kiwanis Festivals.

Each year a CMC Competitor is chosen to take part in this concert. Young cellist Rachel Mercer, accompanied by Lydia Wong, delighted the audience with performances of Scherzo by Van Goens and Piece en forme de Habenera by Ravel. CMC Ontario appreciates the donations of time and talent by all of these wonderful musicians in support of the many young people involved in CMC.