| Abstract The Kobayashi/Gray Duo proposes a sixty-minute lecture-recital of violin and piano works by women composers composed within the last century. Performances of short works and selected movements/excerpts of multi-movement works will be alternated with short narration of biographical information about each composer.Much of the music written by women composers throughout history has fallen into obscurity due to a lack of acceptance in the music field and in society of women as composers. Fortunately a number of music scores have survived and, through extensive research, are being rediscovered and promoted in performances, publications and recordings.The influence of spirituals can be heard in The Deserted Garden of African-American Florence Price (1887-1953). Meira Warshauer (b.?, USA) proudly reflects her Jewish heritage in Bracha (2004). ASCAP Award winner and Fulbright Scholar Emma Lou Diemer (b.1927, USA) wrote Before Spring in 1997. Works by Czech conductor and composer Vítezslava Kaprálová (1915-1940) are only beginning to be recognized internationally. She is represented by Elegie and Burlesque. The Duo has performed and recorded works by Polish composer and violinist, Grazyna Bacewicz (1909-1969) and continues to promote this prolific composer’s works with the inclusion of Sonata III. During 2004, the Duo coached with Elisenda Fabregas (b.1955, Spain) on the performance of her Sonata No. 1. In 2001, Ms. Fabregas was the MTNA Shepherd Distinguished Composer of the Year. This program introduces exciting and varied repertoire to both teachers and performers and encourages the rise of this music to the forefront of contemporary performance. |
