At the time of year when the weather is unpredictable and we ache for warmth, flowers, and the cessation of snow, there couldn’t be a more appropriate title for the sophomore chamber music CD by Western Connecticut pianist/composer Sharon Ruchman: Arrival of Spring. The recording comprises a blend of various ensembles: a string quartet, a trio, duets for violin and piano and for cello and piano.
There’s a great deal of forcefulness in the first movement, while the second is hushed and the third is, again, more vivacious. The first piece, “String Quartet in F Sharp Minor,” is both lively and beautiful. The moody violin piece “Memoria Dolci” is one that Ruchman wrote to honor her uncle, Rudolph Fuchs, an award-winning virtuoso violinist who played for President Coolidge. “Solemnity” is a tranquil cello/piano piece that encourages quiet inner reflection. “Trio for Violin, Cello and Piano in F Minor” moves through a vigorous and dramatic ambience to a stilled and dulcet one, and back again. “Twilight” is played on violin, coupled with the upper octaves of the piano, evoking imagery of shimmering stars. Welcome spring! www.Sharon Ruchman.com.
This article appears in May 2011.
