Fournier Trio Concert Review

After a day of masterclasses, the Fournier Trio remained at the school to give a concert of chamber music. This was a remarkable and captivating performance of a contrasting selection of repertoire ranging from Haydn, Mendelssohn to Arensky.

Haydn’s Piano Trio in A Major launched with confidence, followed by a lyrical melody interplayed between the piano (Chiao-Ying Chang) and the violin (Sulki Yu). The running scales and arpeggios were playing rhythmically and with skilful coordination, creating a light-hearted atmosphere. The second movement was performed with utmost sensitivity and consideration, supported by the rich, deep tone of the cello (Pei-Jee Ng). The final movement, full of syncopation and cheeky grace-notes, was played with vivacity and drew the piece to a positive and cheerful close.

This was followed by Arensky’s Piano Trio No. 1 in D Minor. In the first movement, the violin’s clear and sonorous tune was played with relish, accompanied by the piano’s fluent yet restless triplets. The deeply emotive passages flowed from one to another, provoking a sense of foreboding, leading to assertion and finally a sense of yearning. In the Scherzo, the strings’ delicate and sprightly spiccatos, pizzicatos and staccatos added a refreshing and animated touch. The movement was filled with electrifying moments which kept us on our toes. In the Elegy we heard a beautiful duet between the resonant violin and rich tone of the cello. The piece concluded with a fast-paced and dramatic Finale, finishing with great flourish.

Lastly the trio performed Mendelssohn’s Piano Trio No. 1 in D minor. The virtuosic first movement was played passionately, with intensity and vigour maintained throughout. The Scherzo had a balanced mixture of gracefulness and well-controlled power. The concluding Finale comprised of energetic and playful motives which built up to a melodramatic and impressive climax, ending triumphantly in major key.

The Fournier Trio was extraordinary in every way; their unique interpretation, versatility and flawless execution showed their virtuosity in performing such a challenging repertoire. I look forward to attending another of their terrific performances soon.

Rachelle Lam