MUSICAL-MENTE

Humour abounds in this fifth edition of MUSICAL-MENTE. Broad or subtle, it circulates freely through Humores de Câmara [Chamber Humours], part 2 of the cycle, which comprises pieces that rely on an intimate trio of instruments. In Three Funny Pieces, the Soviet Russian composer Rodion Shchedrin brings into play one of the features of his prolific oeuvre: the love for parody and irony. As for Haydn’s Trio, it showcases a broad expressive amplitude, being witty and full of surprises throughout its three movements. Taking as inspiration Satie’s Three Pieces in the Shape of a Pear, Portuguese composer Carlos Azevedo offers a similar musical irreverence and playful effervescence in Three Pears in the Shape of Satie, in a world premiere. The lyricism and virtuoso reverie of Mendelssohn’s work are shot through with a spiritual energy and strength of almost orchestral proportions, demonstrating the unusual power of a chamber trio. Thanks to the fluidity and balance of its polarities, the German composer’s piece achieves naturalness, efficacy and excellence. As is the case with a good comedic sketch, in the end.