Sheila Chisholm
Recognised as one of great exponents of the clarinet, Michael Collins is performing at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Green Point, on February 7 at 8.15pm. He’s also scheduled for Christ Church, Constantia on February 5 at 3pm. Joined by highly esteemed pianist, Luis Magalhaes, their programme comprises Schumann’s Fantasy Pieces; Bartok’s An Evening At The Village; Brahms’s Clarinet Sonata No 2, Op 120; Finzi’s Five Bagatelles; Lutoslawski’s Dance Preludes and Poulenc’s Clarinet Sonata.
Designed to carry audiences on a musical journey from the Romantic, through the Classical periods, to modernist spirit, French chic euphony, and pastoral English traditions said Collins, “our programme encompasses every aspect of the clarinet, from its singing qualities to its more virtuosic and brilliant side.”
Son of a toolmaker, English born Collins exemplifies how lowly backgrounds won’t hinder you succeeding, if you’re determined to succeed. He’s also the only family member involved with classical music making. “I was seven when first I heard the clarinet. What it was, I’ll never know, but something in that instrument’s warm dark sound touched my soul and I immediately wanted to play it. From there began my life long clarinet love-story.”
He plays exclusively on Yamaha clarinets
At 16, Collins took the coveted woodwind award in the BBC Young Musician of the Year Competition. At 22 Collins made his Carnegie Hall debut, thereafter going on to become a most sought after soloist and chamber musician. His tours have taken him around the world playing alongside such supremo’s as Martha Argerich, Stephen Hough, Mikhail Pletnev and Joshua Bell.
Awarded an MBE for services to music Collins has, in recent years, extended his musicianship to conducting. With a residency at Wigmore Hall he enjoys a glittering career as soloist, conductor and recording artist with many significant orchestras. In 2010 he took an appointment as Principal Conductor of the City of London Sinfonia. Playing exclusively on Yamaha clarinets, music lovers mustn’t miss hearing Michael Collins live.
When, where: Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Green Point, Feb 7, 8.15pm, Christ Church, Constantia, Feb 5, 3pm
Book: St Andrew’s Church: 021 7946695, 082 864 4550, http://www.quicket.co.za/
Book: Christ Church Constantia: 021 794 5051, or e-mail parish@cchconst.org.za
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