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Audience Raves!
October 10th, 2024
DSE Presents “Adventures with Dolce Suono Trio,” opening concert of our 20th season, September 22, 2024 at Trinity at 22nd, Spruce and 22nd Streets, Philadelphia
“Just when I think they can’t surprise me anymore, they do! Dolce Suono’s September 22 program was a series of awesome surprises, especially for someone like me who is rather musically naive. The finale Allegro in Weber’s Trio in G Minor was simply Wow! Rorem’s Trio really gave me the flute I seek, especially in the extended solo of the Largo misterioso. The Largo section really had the crashing chords and meandering flute so aptly described in Mimi’s extensive notes which are so invaluable for one wanting to know more about the creation of the music as well as what to listen for in each piece. And last but not least, Martinu’s Trio had wonderful mood swings as noted going from “jaunty, sunny” to “ruminative” in the piano solo, and then “mysterious” flute before finally returning to sunny. This trio especially, pulled me out of my solo flute obsession ( but just temporarily ) with its beautiful mix of flute, piano, and cello. My gosh, how they really spoke to one another. I thought the musicians were really experiencing this living connectivity. The encore, Aeroporto, a DSE standard, followed an enthusiastic standing ovation.” – Ron Milito
“The group’s musicianship is of an extraordinarily high quality–precise, pure, expressive–and I admired the selections. I like Martinu very much, but rarely hear his work, so I was delighted to see it included. BTW, when I was in Prague, I stayed in Martinu’s former home, on the island beneath the Charles Bridge. ” – Paula Roberts
“My wife and I recently attended the first DSE concert of the season at Trinity @22nd in Philly “Adventures with Dolce Suono Trio.” It was from the very beginning a very warm and comfortable setting and Mimi made us all feel very welcome. The artists played beautifully, brilliantly and with a profound understanding of the music. The interplay between each performer was remakable and you could see how much they enjoyed playing together! The works were varied and required a virtuosity and sensitivity that they all were more than capable of providing. It was truly an inspiring and enjoyable afternoon of music.” – Marc Adler
“Your opening-of-the-season concert was splendid! I found the combination of pieces exciting and the musicianship awesome. Even better, YouTube allows for repeated listening. That is a real gift, particularly for recent, rarely recorded pieces. Your introductions to the pieces were enlightening, but you make them sprightly and fun. It gave me pleasure to see you even at a distance; you enjoy your musicianship it is clear.” – Lynn Hollen Lees
“The Dolce Suono Ensemble is an important part of our cultural community. Beautiful music delivered warmly by artists who create a family atmosphere. Not only are we entertained but we are welcomed so graciously.” – Margaret Lonzetta
“My wife and I have been huge fans of Mimi Stillman since we first heard her play in Yardley, PA over 20 years ago. Teaming with Charlie Abramovic and others, Dolce Suono programs are always inventive and entertaining. I particularly enjoyed hearing the Martinu, who composed so much wonderful music but unfortunately rarely included on concerts programs. Mimi is a treasure.” – Bob and Marion Pollack
“Dolce Suono Ensemble kicked off their 20th Season with three great performances of music for flute, cello, and piano. The Dolce Suono Trio, featuring Mimi Stillman flute, Gabriel Cabezas cello and Charles Abramovic piano. What I liked about this program is the wide span of time and styles presented by the Trio. The Weber really showcased music that was making the transition from the classical style to the romantic style. Rorem seems to a composer that works well with this combination of instruments and the Dolce Suono Trio in particular. Finally, it was a treat to hear a selection from Martinů who seems not to be as played as ofter as others from the Czech Republic.
There are three things I really like about DSE. First, they present an array of established, new, and commissioned chamber music. Second, there is an ever expanding, contracting, and diverse complement of musicians that are added or subtracted to build appealing programs, usually focused on a theme. Third, DSE expands with musicians and friends like Ricardo and Amy Morales, Che-Hung Chen, Tom Kraines, and others.
The “family” atmosphere, of Mimi Stillman, Ronni Gordon, and board members like Will Loeb, Bob McShea, and Carol Westfall help separate this from other chamber music organizations. With various performances available across the internet and locally on WWFM continues to expand the reach of DSE.” – Kenneth Hutchins
“Dolce Suono provides interesting and often unusual programs performed by its superb core trio supplemented by a variety of outstanding guest artists. One cannot hear chamber music performed at a higher level!” – Steven Weinberger
“My wife and I have attended at least 14 DSE concerts over the years. Obviously, we are pleased! I am particularly impressed with the variety of composers and compositional styles. The musicians are impeccable; I would never miss an opportunity to hear Charles Abramovic. Five stars and my compliments to Mimi Stillman and her associates and the directors. We are very fortunate to have this series.” – John Marcille
“The performance was amazing! You were absolutely glowing while playing and I really loved the first Trio in G Minor by Weber (specifically the Schafers Klage – Andante) and the last Trio (specifically the Poco allegretto). I liked a lot of the notes and chord combinations that were used, especially across the flute, cello and piano – it was really beautiful.” – Celine Luo