Faculty Recital revisits all the classics

The Gustavus Music Department will present a flute faculty recital on Feb. 27 featuring Music Professor Barbara Leibundguth, Accompanist Beth Winterfeldt, and Contrabassoonist Norbert Nielubowski.

“The theme is ‘Revisiting old favorites” since all the music I’m playing is ‘A-list’ flute repertoire,” Leibundguth said.

The program of the recital includes a variety of pieces by highly-respected, classical artists.

“The recital program includes many pieces such as “Cantabile and Presto” by Georges Enesco, “Sonata in e minor, BWV 1034” by Johann Sebastian Bach, “Adagio ma non tanto; Allegro; Andante; Allegro, Bachianas Brasileiras No. 6, for flute and bassoon” by Heitor Villa-Lobos, “Chôro; Fantasia, Sonata” by Erwin Schulhoff, “Allegro moderato; Scherzo: Allegro giocoso; Aria: Andante; Rondo-finale: Allegro molto gajo, Ballade” by Frank Martin,” Director of Fine Arts Program Al Behrends said.

“My recital repertoire encompasses many different styles, including Romantic, Baroque, and 20th century, and I will provide demonstrations and information about each piece.” Leibundguth said.

Music student McKenzie Perry reveals her excitement for the recital coming up.

“I am looking forward to hearing the bassoon/flute/piano combo piece that combines Brazilian style music with a piece from Bach. I think the sound will be very interesting and I am excited for the performance,” Perry said.

Leibundguth  is putting months of effort towards this performance and has shown exquisite knowledge towards her instrument of choice.

“An interesting fact about the flute is that it takes more air than any wind instrument except the tuba, since only half the air goes into the tube. Another fact is that flutes have been around since prehistoric times, and often they were made of human or animal leg bones. In a musical ensemble, the flute often carries the melody line, since the sound so closely resembles a soprano voice. Also, the flute is very agile and can play extremely fast passages,” Leibundguth said.

The recital takes place in Jussi Björling Recital Hall, which is one of Leibundguth’s favorite venues to perform in.

The Flute Recital takes place at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 27 in Jussi Björling Recital Hall.

Perry encourages all Gusties to go see this riveting performance.

“It is a wonderful opportunity for people to experience the highest level of musicianship and great repertoire. Additionally, it’s on campus so it makes it even more convenient to attend,” Perry said.