The internationally acclaimed musical duo Viktor Valkov and Lachezar Kostov performed again earlier this month on Mar. 3 at the Staller Center. Following their recent recital last October, this performance was comprised of pieces arranged specifically for the piano and cello, the pair’s respective instruments.
Previously the musicians gave a recital during which they played several pieces arranged by the late Soviet modernist composer Nikolay Roslavets. The composer, known for his defiance of the proletarian musical creed and the controversy that followed, faced much criticism by his enemies that eventually amounted to a professional prohibition of his works. Though many of his pieces are believed to be lost, quite a few have been found and continue to be discovered.
During their last performance, the two musicians played beautifully. Valkov, deemed “lion of the keyboard” by critics, is always phenomenal on the piano. The variety of his pace of playing – soft and flowing one moment, loud and powerful the next – is a true testament to his skill and patience as a musician.
Valkov’s colleague matches him wonderfully on the cello, and his passion is extremely evident. Whether it manifests itself in sharp breaths or quick sawing motions with his bow, Kostov’s dedication to his instrument is astonishing. He can hold a note for an incredible amount of time, drawing his bow slowly and evenly across the strings of his cello to set a tone that demands attention.
The pieces played were Ellen Taafe Zwilich’s “Lament,” followed by Roslavets’ Sonata for Cello and Piano n.2, Dmitri Kabalevsky’s Sonata for Cello and Piano, and Camille Saint-Saens’ Sonata for Cello and Piano n.2, op 123.
As usual, the musicians opened by introducing themselves, greeting the audience (which they warmly regard as their personal guests), and starting a brief discussion of the works to be performed. It’s always a pleasant experience to attend a Valkov/Kostov recital, as although they take their work very seriously, they express a sense of humor and establish an inviting mood. And, of course, the quality of their performances is unbelievable.
On Mar. 10 they played a very important concert in Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall, and they recorded a set of Roslavets pieces for the prestigious NAXOS recording label last year. Admission to their recitals is free and they always welcome viewers, so if you’re available to see one of their performances, be sure to attend!
