Drogheda, Ireland — Despite the biting cold outside, the atmosphere within the historic confines of St Peter’s Church of Ireland on Friday, November 10th, radiated warmth as The Kahlo Piano Quartet, comprised of four of Europe’s most accomplished musicians, delivered an electrifying performance as part of the Drogheda Classical Music series.
Under the direction of the exceptionally talented Irish violinist David Tobin, the award-winning Kahlo Piano Quartet, recent recipients of the Gold Medal at the Vienna International Music competition, enchanted the audience with a program of French and German Romanticism that left spectators spellbound.
Before the quartet graced the stage, Dr. Gavan Ring, Artistic Administrator for Drogheda Classical Music, engaged in a pre-concert discussion with David Tobin. The conversation delved into Tobin’s career as one of Europe’s most exciting violinists, the evening’s repertoire, and, intriguingly, Tobin’s experiences as a center-half for both Shelbourne FC and the Republic of Ireland during his school days. The captivated audience was treated to anecdotes of his encounters with Drogheda United while playing for Shelbourne.
The quartet’s compelling program commenced with an outstanding rendition of a lesser-known work by the French romantic Ernest Chausson, his Piano Quartet in A major. Following the interval, the audience was treated to a beautifully nuanced interpretation of Lil Boulanger’s “D’un matin de printemps” or ‘Of a Spring Morning,’ followed by a resounding display of passion and virtuosity in a triumphant finale performance of Brahms’ Piano Quintet No. 3 in C minor. Responding to the fervent applause, the Kahlo Piano Quartet obliged with an encore, presenting an exquisite performance of Richard Strauss’ “Liebesliedchen.”
The Drogheda Classical Music series will continue on December 8th, featuring three of Ireland’s leading international musicians. Celebrated clarinetists John Finucane and Jessie Grimes will join forces with acclaimed pianist Finghin Collins for a sumptuous concert of duos and trios, including Schumann’s collection of fantasies filled with humor, emotional intensity, and pianistic elegance.
Tickets for the upcoming performance are priced at €20 (€18 conc.) and can be purchased by phone at 041 9833946 or in person at the Droichead Arts Centre. Additionally, under-18s can avail themselves of a €5 ticket rate, while students with valid ID can purchase tickets at a reduced rate of €10 on the evening of the performance, subject to availability.
