Interview with Antoni Josef “Anjo” Inacay, principal cello. Anjo will play Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Rococo Theme. A “variation theme” is when the different movements (there are 7 or 8 in this one, depending on the version) contain a main outline, but with—as the name suggests—variations in one or several musical elements: harmony, melody, counterpoint, rhythm, timbre, or orchestration. (Kind of like jazz music, where a chord pattern is respected but always varied or improvised.) It is a 20-minute piece. Taxing on the soloist. Q: Anjo, what are the challenges you face as you rehearse for this? ANJO: One of the main challenges of the Rococo Variations is its technical difficulty on both the left and right hands. Because it is in a theme and variations form, Tchaikovsky was able to showcase a wide diversity of styles for every variation which of course brings out a demanding arsenal of playing techniques from the performer. The biggest challenge for me is that when I perform this piece it should look easier and feel more comfortable than what it sounds like. Q: What in its theme, or content, or context appeals to you? ANJO: What appealed to me the most about this piece is that it is easy to appreciate, whether you are a common listener or a professional musician. The piece has a natural story unfolding by itself. From a simple theme it evolves into different characters and emotions; from playful, to exciting, to romantic, to tragic, to triumph. I’m sure our audience will enjoy this light-hearted masterpiece. Q: Why did you choose this piece? ANJO: Honestly, when Sir Jeff Solares (MSO Executive Director) asked me to perform as a soloist for the August concert series, I had the same options of repertoire in mind (with the Rococo Variations at the end of my list). But then, Sir Toti (Professor Arturo Tolentino, conductor) asked me if I could do the Rococo and I gladly said yes, with flashbacks running through my head. You see, I had already collaborated this piece with Sir Toti at the baton eight years ago for my graduation recital and had so much fun performing it, that I’d be more than grateful to be able to do it again with the MSO. Q: Thanks for answering Anjo and see you on August 19th!
Posted on: Mon, 11 Aug 2014 02:49:04 +0000
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