Toad Lane Concert: Isabel Williamson cello and Jonathan Ellis piano

Jonathan Ellis and Isabel Williamson

Two supremely qualified musicians gave an outstanding recital at St Mary's in the Baum on Wednesday 31 May.

Cellist Isabel Williamson achieved a distinction in her masters degree from the RNCM, following a first-class music degree from the University of Manchester, where she was awarded the Proctor Gregg Recital Prize in her final year. In addition to freelance orchestral work, she performs regularly and teaches with Kirklees Music Service.

After starting to learn the piano at the age of three, Jonathan Ellis studied at Wells Cathedral School, and moved on to the joint music course of the RNCM and Manchester University, where he graduated first-class from both institutions and gained higher diplomas and prizes as a soloist, accompanist and chamber musician.

In a delightful performance of Mendelssohn’s Variations Op. 17, Jonathan played the virtuoso scalic passages at blistering speed and Isabel was never short of the projected power and control. The many technical demands of both players were equally met.

The more expansive Andante by Klengel allowed them further expressive opportunities, as did Mendelssohn’s Song Without Words in D major Op. 109 with its lyrical charm and moody reflections.

The tour de force was Beethoven’s Cello Sonata No 3, Op. 69, regarded as the first sonata where the cello was allowed equal standing with the piano. This was evident in the pair’s interpretation and playing. The almost fierce first movement and even more rhythmic second were poised briefly by a profound Adagio before the intense and driving finale.

A true dynamic duo and a breath-taking and memorable performance.

The Queen’s Award-winning Toad Lane Concerts are every Wednesday at 12.30pm at St Mary in the Baum, Toad Lane, Rochdale, OL16 1DZ. Entrance fee is £6. No refreshments available. Contact 01706 648872 for further information.

To see details of forthcoming Toad Lane Concerts, click here.

Dr Joe Dawson