01/20/2008

 

Local talent leads the classical musical way this year with starring roles in recently released CDs that show the promise of continuing excellence for lovers of fine music and fine performances. Here's what's up:

 

Spencer Myer

North Ridgville pianist Spencer Myer came out with his latest CD, 'Spencer Myer Plays Preludes & Variations,' produced by Harmonia Mundi USA, at the end of 2007.

The popular local artist recorded it in January 2007 in conjunction with the American Pianists Association, founded in New York City by Victor Borge and Tony Habig in 1979. It features works of Debussy, Copland, Busoni and a world premiere of a work by Ellis Kohs's (1916-2000) 'Variations on L'Homme Arme.'

The Debussy preludes from Book II show Myer at his dreamy best. His sensitive evocation of Debussy always reflects the elegant and graceful poetry of the composer as transmitted through the hands of a pianist who 'gets it.' Another outstanding track on this CD is an enchanting and compelling 'Ten Variations on a Prelude of Chopin' by Busoni. The Koh and the Copland should please fans of more recent music's sophisticated take on musical tradition.

This CD ($21.98) is available at Barnes and Noble in Crocker Park in Westlake or at amazon.com and other online sites.

Myer, raised in North Ridgeville, studied at Oberlin Conservatory of Music, the Juilliard School and Stony Brook University (New York). In 2006 he was named a Christel DeHaan Classical Fellow of the American Pianists Association. In 2005, he won the UNISA Competition (which meant a South African tour). He's also played in concert halls around the world as well as in many local venues (including the Stocker Arts Center at Lorain County Community College).

Myer will play in a solo recital of works by Beethoven and others at 3 p.m. on May 18 as part of the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the Elyria Musical Arts Society at the Stocker Center auditorium at Lorain County Community College in Elyria.

 

©The Morning Journal 2008