Audience Raves

What our community members are saying

“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  

“My husband and I attended our first Dolce Suono Ensemble concert, “Dubussy Through The Lens,” in March 2025. Each musician’s unique talent was highlighted throughout the concert, yet the combination of flute, viola, and harp melded seamlessly. We were pleasantly surprised by the variety in the music. Ms. Stillman’s explanation of the history and influence of Debussy in contemporary chamber music was insightful, and we appreciated learning about how the composer’s life informed his art. My husband and I both left feeling at peace and refreshed. There is nothing like a live performance and we will be back.” – Alexandra Costlow

“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

“This delightful concert showcased the depth and professionalism of the Dolce Suono Ensemble. When illness forced sudden changes to program, the show did go on to great effect with two new performers. Hearing Charles Abramovic play a blazing Debussy prelude and watching Mimi Stillman enjoy playing all the characters in Carmen with Borne’s Fantasisie brillante on Themes from Bizet was a rare treat that more than made up for the missed pieces, which will be performed at a later date.” – Marilyn Fishman

“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

“Thank you for sending the link to this fabulous concert. Jim and I watched it together and we laughed and enjoyed the music and program very much.  You, Charlie, Gabe, and Ashley were wonderful together. It was a spectacular chamber music concert! I am sorry we were not able to attend the concert in person.  It must have been electric. There was something for everyone. I am going to listen to the concert again and read the notes in the concert program. It is helpful to have the texts to the beautiful songs in the program.” – Carolyn and Jim Barnshaw

“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

DSE’s performance, ‘Debussy Through the Lens!,’ was nothing short of exquisite. The music was beautiful, and the historical context given throughout the concert allowed for a deep understanding of the pieces performed that heightened the experience. We walked away feeling refreshed and entranced by Mimi’s beautiful flute, Meng’s viola, Subin’s harp, and Charlie’s piano! Thank you for such a wonderful and unforgettable Sunday afternoon! – Nick and Maddie Sleeman

“This performance was, as are all DSE, a very wonderful, uplifting, and energizing exploration of musical vistas. The quartet combination of harp, flute, viola, and piano was sonically miraculous and produced new musical adventures. I am not very familiar with French oeuvre, and so was grateful to have this marvelous opportunity. Thank you DSE for the always freshness and energy of your music making; it is a blessing to have you so close.” – Jim Manganaro

“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

“Lindsey and I so thoroughly enjoyed yesterday’s concert. Though my ears tend to focus on Mimi’s fabulous flute, the ensemble performed seamlessly. Each artist enjoyed playing the afternoon’s selections and Charlie rose to the occasion with his demanding piece. Each concert is so rewarding for us and we’re so pleased getting to know more of the Dolce Suono family. Hats off to the audio engineer and the videographer who were quite busy producing the beautiful sounds and imagery that, as subscribers, we’ll see again when we receive the concert video. Tremendous job all around DSE!” – Stafford B. Wavrek