3 November 2011
World renowned violinist Levon Chilingirian returned to Abingdon this term to work with six of Abingdon’s senior violinists and violists. Mr Chilingirian’s last visit, some eighteen months ago, was still fresh in the minds of many of us, so there was considerable expectation for a repeat of his first memorable and successful masterclass. We were not to be disappointed.
Mariette Pringle, our Head of Strings, had worked hard to prepare the boys for their pieces – recently compromised by bone fractures suffered by two intended participants, David Chung and Humphrey Thompson. The performers included William Hewstone (viola) playing Vivaldi, Gerald Chan (viola) playing Rolla, George Burrage (violin) playing Vivaldi, Thomas Kelly (violin) playing Debussy, Ian Chan (violin) playing Bloch and Matthew Lung (violin) playing Lalo.
A large audience enjoyed some lovely music making throughout the evening and they included many string playing luminaries of Oxfordshire. It was heartening to see many pupils learning from the fascinating observations and teaching offered by Levon Chilingirian.
Our master musician was able to draw on his huge experience as a performer and teacher and focussed on just a few elements of each of the performances, concerning matters both of technique and musicality, the two, of course, being inextricably linked. His wise and considered interaction with each performer was both humorous and compassionate. As a result each player was empowered to relax and “up their game.” It was fascinating to watch and listen and to witness their improvement.
My thanks to everyone involved – the boys, the parental Music Society, Mariette Pringle (who performed magnificently at the piano) and, of course, our master violinist, Levon Chilingirian.
MAS
