Whitewater Times

MBU's spring 2025 Music on Mondays concert series featured violinist Soh-Hyun Park Altino and cellist Leonardo Altino. The program titled "Virtuosity and Lyricism: A Celebration of Duo Masterpieces" included works by Ravel, Glière, Kodály, and Halvorsen. Two concerts were held, one for families with young children and another for the Watertown area community, providing an opportunity for music lovers to enjoy a skilled performance.

The family concert tailored for a young audience began at 6 pm. The performers discussed chamber music, collaborative playing techniques, and musical communication. Using stories, characterizations, and pictures, they helped the audience connect with the music. Soh-Hyun expressed, “to show you how much fun it is to play violin and cello,” they performed the virtuosic Passacaglia. The program included pieces depicting contrasting stories and feelings.

Richie, a young attendee, shared that his favorite piece was the opening Duo, Op. 7 by Zoltán Kodály, due to its imagery of war and fighting. Another student, Drew, enjoyed the concert because “It’s awesome to hear some great, energetic music, as well as see whoever is doing it… on a recording, you don’t have any interaction.”

The 7 pm community concert included a Sonata for Violin and Cello by Ravel and "Etude" by Glière, in addition to previous works. The contrasting styles and performance prowess created a thrilling experience.

Dr. Bachorik, Music Department Chair, noted the performers' engaging interaction with the audience. He was moved by moments of delicacy as well as raw power. He stated that the recital was a special gift to the music majors and minors.

Soh-Hyun Park Altino is a versatile violinist and teacher, performing solo and chamber music worldwide. With a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music, she currently teaches at Wheaton College Conservatory of Music. Her research in traditional Korean music has deepened her appreciation of music as a language.

Leonardo Altino, an American-Brazilian cellist, began his musical journey at the age of five and gained national recognition in Brazil at fourteen. His playing is praised for its "exceptional musical intelligence and an exceptionally cultivated sound." He teaches at Wheaton College Conservatory of Music.

The Altinos frequently perform together, have recorded an album, "En Voyage," and travel with their son David.

For more information about Maranatha’s Music on Mondays Concert Series, visit mbu.edu/monday. The site also offers details on how to sponsor future concerts.