Tuesday 15 January 2013

In Concert

It was all somewhat surreal. But that was not the start. To begin with we had been invited to meet members of The Bard College Conservatory of Music at a dinner given at the home of Olivia and Lászlo Bitó whose celebrated 'salons' are, indeed, the pinnacle of Budapest society. What a wonderful evening it was, surrounded by such a plethora of young talent whose wide ranging interests, knowledge and enthusiasms were, and are, infectious.

complimentary tickets for The Bard Conservatory of Music concert - Sunday, 13th. January

And if friendships were to be cemented, then they were at a drinks party which we gave later in the same week prior to the opening of their Central European Tour.

Sabrina Tabby, centre, a Bard student in conversation at the Drinks Party held in our apartment 

at the Drinks Party, a smiling Szilvia Mikó, pianist with The Bard Conservatory of Music 


Alex Meyer, oboist, prepares to brave the cold of Budapest on leaving the Drinks Party

But we digress. For what was it that gave to last Sunday night that strange, always elusive, air of mystery and magic? Could it have been the softly falling snow lightening the darkening streets? Was it the concert hall itself, a building stripped bare, unfinished, work suspended? Or was it, most likely, the anticipation of a joyous occasion of the most wonderful music played by young people who, even in so short a time, could be counted as friends?


the unfinished, but most interesting, main concert hall of The Budapest Music Centre


our friend, Dávid Nagy, is captured in the porthole of the concert hall  before the performance

Opening with a 'Quintet for piano and winds' by Mozart in which our most treasured friend, Dávid, playing the bassoon, excelled and where the highly individual Alex [oboe] and Renata [clarinet] gave most spirited performances, the pace never slackening, Mozart gave way to the second item, Schubert's 'String Trio in B-flat Major' which, not unexpectedly, proved to be an absolute delight.


ending the Mozart 'Quintet', from left to right Szilvia Mikó, Ferenc Farkas and Dávid Nagy


from left to right, Dávid Nagy, Alex Meyer, Ferenc Farkas, Renata Rakova and Szilvia Mikó

Thereafter followed an entirely new work by the young Bard composer Sunbin Kim entitled 'Two Mirrors'. This most exciting and complex piece, with its heightened discords and underlying melody, was superbly played with incredible assurance by Bitó scholar, Adrienn [flute], fourth year student, Sabrina [violin] and former pupil of Kveta Glasnakova, Rastislav [cello]. In this they were joined by Péter Bársony [viola] from the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest.


Sabrina Tabby and Péter Bársony seen at the conclusion of Sunbin Kim's 'Two Mirrors'


composer and Bard student, Sunbin Kim, pictured  at work before the start of the concert

In conclusion Dohnáyni's 'Sextet in C Major' brought the concert to a triumphant and dramatic close where the verve, panache and exuberance of the players themselves became a very echo of the music itself.

And although they are lost to us for the present they are not forgotten, nor will they be. For each has found a place in our hearts: the laconic Alex, the striking Renata, the charming and gifted Dávid, the self-effacing Ferenc, the highly accomplished Szilvia, the vivacious and prodigiously talented Sabrina, the studious Rastislav, the prize winning Noémi, and the cerebal composer Sunbin Kim.

As they travel forward to Bratislava, Vienna, Brno and Prague, audiences in these cities can, we know, anticipate evenings of exceptional music making. 

Bravo to Bard!!

For those who are interested, here Sabrina Tabby and Dávid Nagy play Mendelssohn's 'Piano Trio in D minor'.

171 comments:

  1. Dear Jane and Lance,
    What a fantastic concert! Is there anything as wonderful as ecstatic music played by brilliant friends? The full orchestra is magnificent, of course, but I prefer chamber music, where the musicians' hands moving on the instruments and their breathing become part of the music. Here in our town, we support a chamber music festival, and have befriended many of the young (and old) and talented players that visit from around the world each year. My favorite evening in the festival is a "jam session" party at our dear friends' home, where the musicians from different quartets mix, playing just for fun. The wine flows freely, and they play with such reckless abandon...incredible! I'll have to wait until June for our festival-- thank you for bridging the long wait with your wonderful post!
    Warm regards,
    Erika

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    1. You have so very clearly appreciated, Erika, the sheer joy to have been had over the last week or so first in meeting with, and getting to know, members of The Bard College Conservatory of Music and then, on Sunday evening, the culmination of everything in a most wonderful concert. All of this you will, of course, know from your own experiences of similar events.

      Your June festival sounds absolutely marvellous and we do hope that it is something about which you will write a post. We shall much look forward to reading about it. As for the 'jam sessions' - superb!

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  2. While much of the music is not known to me, the magic of the evening came through in your words. It must have been quite wonderful to be listening to timeless music - old and new compositions - in such a raw space. To be witness to the start of those promising musicians' careers had to have been remarkable and you two seem to have embraced the privilege and enjoyed every moment. It's certain that you will be forever part of the memories of those young artists.

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    1. It was indeed the most wonderful of evenings and, somehow or other, having met and knowing the musicians gave to it all, both the music and the occasion, another dimension. You are right to call it a privilege to have had these opportunities and they have been, and are, something which we shall treasure for all time.

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  3. How wonderful for you to be able to witness such remarkable talent of these young musicians and I'm sure they enjoyed the experience of that lovely soiree that you hosted in your home. A lovely post Jane and Lance. Thankyou.
    Patricia x

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    1. It has been all very memorable, Patricia, not least to meet with so many very talented and interesting people gathered together at any one time. We are so pleased that you have enjoyed the post. Thank you!

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  4. How fortunate to be surrounded by so many young, talented, people...and then the music! What a great evening.

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    1. It has been enormous fun, Adrienne, and we are so grateful to Susan Scheid who first introduced us to Bard College and its wonderful Conservatory of Music.

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  5. To play heightened discords with assurance in an unfinished venue busting with strange charm.

    This must be what it is to be fully alive, no?

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    1. It is certainly, dear FGD, the stuff of which dreams are made. What is more, we were, and are, awake!

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    2. Lovely, lovely images of the people, as well. Really enjoyed imagining the evening hosted in your home!

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    3. And, dearest FGD, if you had been there, our evening would have been complete. Oh what fun we should all have had!!!

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  6. Jane and Lance, post after post you make me drool. What do I say after reading this post? Some where in a corner of my heart I felt envy?

    Frankly speaking I heard the whole performance through your post, why should I envy, I was right there sitting in the Music Hall. Fortunate to have you in my life, through your posts I enjoy a lots of joys.

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    1. This is extraordinarily generous of you. Thank you so much. But, in truth, it is not difficult to describe something which was so very alive, so immediate and, to use your own word, joyous.

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    2. Joyous it is, listening to this heavenly music especially when youth is playing, you get a double dose of joy, knowing the future of art and music is as bright as these bright young faces playing it. What else do we need?

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    3. This is so very true. And they do, as we are sure that you would agree, represent all of our futures. When things look bleak, we need to be reminded of young people such as these.

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  7. It all sounds fascinating - from the drinks party to the concert - and I am glad that everyone agreed to have their picture shown on your blog. But then again I guess that most young people nowadays are on facebook anyway, so they have no problem with that. Plus they want to get known to a wider audience, don't they!

    When it comes to classical music, I must admit to being rather conservative in my taste (just like I am when it comes to the opera, ballet, paintings and sculpture). Therefore, I could not help but cringe a little when I read your description of "Two Mirrors" with "heightened discords and underlying melody". Why is it, I wonder, that new classical music has to be discordant? Why can't it be as harmonious to the human ear as the old classical music?
    I am sure the composer is very talented (otherwise, his composition would certainly not have been chosen for this concert), I just don't "get" the discords.

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    1. Generally today young people are far more 'up front' than perhaps was the case when we were their ages. But then, as you say with 'Facebook', for example, there is so much more opportunity for them to be known than there ever was in the past.

      We were actually, not knowing what to expect, very pleasantly surprised with the piece 'Two Mirrors' which we found as enjoyable, albeit in a different way, as the more traditional pieces. It is possible that we have described it badly, so do look out for it, Meike, and give it a try. The composer is as you say extraordinarily talented and, in addition to reading music, is taking Double Physics!!

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    2. That sounds intriguing - it is so rare to find someone who is as talented in the arts, or languages, as in science! RJ is a bit like that, by the way; he has a degree in Theoretical Physics AND is a very good dancer :-)

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    3. RJ does sound a little formidable as neither of us could claim a comprehensive knowledge of Theoretical Physics. We might be better when it came to dancing!!

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  8. Dearest Jane and Lance,
    How lovely for you ALL. I thought the unfinished music hall and the young musicians a fitting metaphor. How fun to imagine a future concert with a finished hall and mature musicians. Of course another play of drinks all around at the Hattatts. You were in your element! Creativity oozing vibrant life . . . divine music . . . accomplished youth. Joy! xxCarol

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    1. Oh, Carol, of course you would have seen the whole thing as a metaphor. How blind we are!

      Would that you too had been here for the party for not only would you have loved all of the young people as we do, but you would have contributed so much yourself, thus raising it all to an even higher level. Do watch out for them for they are certainly destined to make names for themselves.

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  9. Lucky you to be in the presence of such talent!

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    1. A wonderful occasion, Rose. We should not let our chances pass us by!!!

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  10. Dashing out and away on errands this cold morning, but I'm going to float along on your words and the Schubert all the way.

    So good to have Y'all home!


    moire non,

    rachel

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    1. How wonderful for you to be doing just that, Rachel. All the music was so very glorious and will, as with the musicians too, long remain with us.

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  11. Hello Jane and Lance, Is this the Bard College from New York? They have a famous conservatory of music, and I noticed that the name on the tickets was in English. Conservatories are incredible bargains--all that talent, often offered through free concerts and recitals.

    If you do make it to the States, you might want to swing by Bard's campus, located in the Hudson Valley, an incredibly scenic and beautiful area, and also an architectural wonderland.
    --Road to Parnassus

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    1. It is indeed, Jim, and they are, as you are probably aware, outstanding and, as we understand it, the College itself has a very high academic reputation.

      We should most certainly include the Bard College campus on any itinerary and, in the event, we doubt that our friend, Dávid Nagy, would allow us to miss it.

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  12. My dear Jane and Lance, I have been even more sentimental than usual as of late (as you both know that is saying something) and I was very moved by this beautifully evocative post which did indeed emanate with a musical rhythm. I too felt that I had been there in the bare bones concert hall (which I wish they would keep just as it is). I suppose what touched me was thinking back to when I was a young artist. Even if you are on track, the life ahead of you is so tenuous, it takes so much courage to keep creating fully. I can only begin to imagine how much your contact and support with these musicians meant to them. Bravo and Namaste.

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    1. This is so very sweet of you, Heather, and we are so very pleased that you too had a sense of the rhythm of the whole occasion. Yes, we agree, the hall itself has a strange and rather beautiful quality in its unfinished state.

      Of course, we too are very conscious of what lies ahead for these young people - indeed all young people everywhere. There are so many uncertainties today which, by and large, did not exist when we were young. But they all displayed huge optimism and determination which, we hope, will at least in part see them through.

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  13. My Dears, I have so missed you and your wonderful posts! What joyful news you give us -- I love seeing young musicians following in the footsteps of the long train of musicians through the ages. Mozart and Schubert are of course among my favourite composers and you must have been transported heavenly listening to these young people play. How lovely for them that they were able to meet you and be welcomed into your home. It sounds as if the night and the atmosphere were truly magical. Bless you both and Happy New Year!

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    1. This is so kind of you, Katherine. It is indeed wonderful to have contact with young, talented and creative people who do, so unknowingly, enrich one's life. The concert programme was very well thought out in as much as it combined the traditional with the modern, the familiar with the less well known. We had not heard of Ernst von Dohnányi, who was born in what is today Slovakia, beforehand and enjoyed his work enormously.

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  14. What a grand experience, the Drinks Party at your apartment where you spent time with the musicians and then the music.

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    1. It was all something of a hectic time but hugely enjoyable. And we have made so very many new friends.

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  15. Dear Jane and Lance - I'm sure the Bard students were as inspired and infused as you were — it looks like great fun for all. I find the unfinished concert hall to have an artistic feel nonetheless. Perhaps a hi-tech motif by David Hockney?

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    1. We actually believe that the Bard students are never without inspiration, something which is conveyed in all that they say and do.

      Yes, we rather like your drawing out a similarity between the unfinished concert hall and a high-tech Hockney. On that subject, we believe that there is a wonderful exhibition of his work currently showing in Cologne.

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  16. The Hattatts are boring??!! Never!! The concert & party sounded absolutely splendid and I'm thrilled that you both support young artists. Bravo!

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    1. It is such fun to be able to mix with young artists who do, in our view, really need all the support that they can get in these very uncertain times.

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  17. Dear Jane and Lance - it is wonderful that you gave these talented young musicians a lovely evening before the commencement of their tour to Central Europe. Young people are often unfairly derided these days when in fact there are so many working and studying hard. My own 15 year old granddaughter, living in Norway, is performing tonight in Stavanger. She is singing a duet from Mozart's Don Giovanni, and I am really wishing that I was there this evening to hear her.

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    1. We could not agree with you more, Rosemary, when you make mention of the very unfair press which so many young people are on the receipt of these days. The Bard College students, and those friends of theirs we have been fortunate enough to meet, are an inspiration to us all.

      How thrilling that you have a granddaughter who is musically talented and who is singing in a concert tonight. You must feel very, very proud - we know that we should be.

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  18. A glimpse into another world, Jane and Lance, that fills me full of delight and not a little envy. I was never good enough to make it as a musician but I lived very close to the musicians' world as my former partner was a pianist of some distinction. To see the joy in these young performers' faces is fantastic and I can only imagine how wonderful it must have been to listen.
    Love that not-quite finished hall! (And Carol's oh-so-perfect metaphor!) And everyone looks extremely happy and relaxed in the elegant surroundings of your lovely home in Budapest.
    Great reading - as ever!
    Axxx

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    1. Our own attempts at piano playing were, we have to confess, lamentable and so we are even more in awe of those who, at such an early age, are so very talented in all aspects of music. And yes, Annie, they were truly marvellous and we felt so proud to be a small part of it all.

      We enjoyed the party hugely. Bring on the next one!!

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  19. I love it that the concert had a mixture of the traditional as well as modern classical music composed by your new friend. That is the only way forward in creating new and positive experiences, not only in art but in life too.
    This night and indeed the party you've described "sounds" beautiful.

    Here is to more music in our lives!

    Red

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    1. We felt that the concert programme had been arranged with a great deal of thought and care and that consideration had been given in the choice of music to allow scope for the musicians to demonstrate their very real talents.

      We will certainly drink to more music in our lives!!

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  20. Dear Jane and Lance,
    I do like the music of Dohnányi: His work is so vivacious! I have never heard his sextet played 'live' but I should imagine it was quite wonderful.
    I wish I could have been there.

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    1. Kirk, we should have known that your musical knowledge would be far ahead of ours. It was not until the actual concert that we first became aware of Dohnányi and loved his 'Sextet'. Now we must look out for more of his work.

      And we should have been so thrilled had you and AGA been able to be there with us.

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  21. ...... and, a lovely time was had by all by the sounds of it...... and a drinks party before made it even better methinks !!!!
    I love the interior of The Budapest Music Centre.....I think that they should leave it like that. It seems to add to the atmosphere somehow . We are quite a musical family as my dad played saxophone and clarinet, my mum sang and our son studied music at University and is now a producer of music at the BBC. I'm only telling you that as I feel that I let you down on my last post with Tomita's version of Claire De Lune and want you both to know that we do listen to better !!!!!!!!!! Hehe XXXX

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    1. Indeed, you are right, Jackie, it was all such enormous fun and we are left not a little sad that it is now over. But we hope, and believe, that possibly they may all return at a future date.

      You are most certainly a musical family and we are so interested, and impressed, to learn that your son is a producer of music at the BBC. We should never dare to own to some of the things which we listen to - but we have graduated above 'The Sound of Music'!!!!!

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  22. Dear Jane and Lance,
    I just saw your post about this outstanding event in Budapest. How lovely! To see those radiant young faces (as we can not hear their concert, we only can imagine how heavenly it must have been). A Drinks Party will have hightened the festvity of the moment - one keeps that forever in ones memory. And the not finished concert hall: I am really tempted to say: leave it as it is (I only see the pictures - and they have something special).

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    1. We are so fortunate here in Budapest to have so much in the way of excellent music going on at all times. And this concert, Britta, given by the students of The Bard Conservatory of Music, was absolutely no exception.

      Yes, we too rather like the concert hall in its unfinished state.

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  23. I rather enjoyed the background of the unfinished concert hall....will the finish change the acoustics, do you think, or has some clever computer dealt with all that?

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    1. Indeed, others have also said much the same. We rather think that the walls of rough brick will remain but what is to happen behind the stage is unknown - at least to us.

      We are told by a professional that the acoustics, which were very good, will be slightly less hollow when the hall is completed.

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  24. How lucky you are to have talented friends like this. It sounds like a magical evening and one I am sure you will remember for some time. Diane

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    1. We consider ourselves, Diane, to have been most fortunate to have had the whole experience. We will certainly not forget any of it.

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  25. I think your first line captures it for me--surreal in the most lovely way to see this transatlantic connection made. The photographs are a delight, and your snapshot word-portraits of the musicians, some of whom, as you know, are well known to me, are a delight!

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    1. It has all been so very thrilling, Susan, and in no small thanks to you. And you were spoken of often, and so very highly. We have made some wonderful friendships - another reason to cross the Atlantic.

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  26. I was green with envy Jane and Lance, wonderful music is an appreciation my grandmother did indeed pass on to me, along with years of piano lessons!
    Perhaps I shall acquire one again - one day!

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    1. It was all very exciting as all good music always is.

      Now you really must set about taking up the piano again. Think what a tribute that would be to your grandmother to whom you owe your love of music.

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  27. Dear Jane and Lance,

    What a special evening, and how wonderful that you are friends with these talented young people. How exciting the tour must be for them. Bard College is known for both intellectual rigor and great arts programs. They have a summer music festival which I, inspire by you, will look into.

    Jen

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    1. Do, Jen, look into the Bard College summer music festival. This is something in which Dávid Nagy, our friend, takes an active part and he is also very involved with the actual organization.

      We too believe that the academic standards of the College are very high.

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  28. To be horribly prosaic, was Sabrina Tabby talking to a 12 foot tall relative of Hagrid in your little flat, or was it a trick of the light?

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    1. Actually, Tom, Miklos to whom Sabrina was talking is very tall. But we should also like to think that in part it was the interesting camera angle we had employed for the shot which did, of course, require several takes!!

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  29. In my favourite art history topics of all time, I included the history of cultural salons. This at the time meant 19th century and Edwardian salons, but your example showed that cultural salons can thrive in the 21st century. Listening to young musicians, sharing knowledge, socialising with new people and perhaps finding new patrons for the performers - what could be better?

    I was also struck by the cities on the musicians' trip: Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Brno and Prague. Add in Berlin and Paris, and you have my complete history of cultural salons sorted :)

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    1. This is all most fascinating and remarkable. What is more your comment has inspired us to look into 'salons' of the periods which you describe and, of course, those, often society figures, who hosted them. Certainly here the Bitós can be said to have kept up the tradition in as much as they really do regularly fill their house with the most interesting of people and where intellectual discussion is the order of the day.

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  30. As I read your post, I could feel your happiness at attending such an event and of also hosting the talent in your home. These young artists, I am sure, must have also enjoyed your company as much as you enjoyed theirs.

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    1. It was all great fun, Arleen. What we enjoyed most was meeting with so many very intelligent and creative young people who really do serve to add interest to life.

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  31. Dear Jane & Lance

    How delightful to be transported to your drawing room for a drink's party with such accomplished and interesting musicians. As I write, I am listening to Dohnáyni's 'Sextet in C Major by Musica Camerata Montreal, on you tube. A perfect piece for a winter's night in Budapest with the snow falling softly.
    The Bard College is very impressive, I notice their Performing Arts Hall is desinged by Frank Gehry. It is certainly worth a visit when we are next in the Adirondacks.

    Thank you for this delightful and entertaining post and may your week continue to be melodious

    Helen xx

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    1. How lovely to think of you, Helen, listening to Dohnáyni's music in far away Florida. He is, as we have mentioned to others, a composer of whom we knew nothing before the night of the concert.

      We understand the entire campus of Bard College not to be without interest. It is somewhere we very much hope to see for ourselves one day.

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  32. Dear Jane and Lance, I can almost discern the strains of Mozart and Schubert through your words and photos. (Need to know the music of Dohnányi)

    This intimate setting in close proximity to the musicians personalizes the performance with each draw of the bow and phrasing breath. It just makes my hair stand on end to think of it.

    These young musicians were treated to the finest that Budapest has to offer with the gracious social reception. I am certain that they will never forget the concert and the warmth of you two. It occurs to me that the Hattatts are excellent ambassadors for Budapest and its arts.

    Love, love, love this post... almost as nice as being there.

    Bises,
    Genie

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    1. We certainly found, Genie, that to know so many of the musicians playing in a concert added a rather strange and exciting dimension to the whole performance. It does indeed give it an intimacy unlike anything else.

      Your comment is so very kind. But we, ourselves, gained so much from the visit of the Bard students who, individually and collectively, made such an impression on our lives. Their creative talent and energy are beyond words.

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  33. My dearest Jane and Lance,

    The air must have been electric the night of your gathering. Having had past opportunity to meet and chat with members of touring ensembles from the Bard Conservatory I agree with your observation that it is easy to be swept away by their energy and excitement.

    As always a most delightful post and recounting your most recent encounters. – gary

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    1. How exciting, Gary, that members of the Bard Conservatory have also crossed your path. We too are hugely impressed with everything about them, not least their rigour and discipline but also too their capacity to work together as a team.

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  34. It all sounds wonderfully exciting. Having held positions on various arts boards I appreciate the importance of patrons support not only in attendance but in hosting events for the artists. It looks as if everyone had a lovely evening.

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    1. We too think, Bonnie, in whatever way possible it is so important to support and encourage the creative talent of young people in all that they do. Alas patrons of the old school, such as were plentiful in former times, are now few and far between.

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  35. Oh you two free spirits! :) Looks like you had jolly good fun and music in any form is good for the soul, this must have been a delight indeed! :)

    Hugs,

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    1. Tremendous fun was indeed had by all. We are feeling rather sad at the moment that it is all over. But there will be other times, that is for sure.

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  36. I can feel the excitement is the words you have written, it shows me you are passionate about this music... I love when people show their passions... it's a form of showing love... awesome:)

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    1. We too love the energy that emanates from passionate people, Launna. As you say, it is about showing love and, rather sadly, people generally seem very reluctant to do this.

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  37. What an experience...I adore these instruments. It would have been wonderful to be there. Am glad you enjoyed yourselves!! xx

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    1. It was most intriguing to see and hear chamber music played by these somewhat unusual instrumental combinations in the forms of a trio, quintet and sextet rather than the much more prevalent quartet. We did enjoy ourselves enormously!

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  38. Oh, Jane and Lance, there's so much promise!
    To me, the unfinished Budapest Music Centre looks stately, noble. It almost doesn't need to be decorated ( though I'm hoping it will be ).
    How glorious to partake of such an event. How wonderful culture is so strong!
    God bless Budapest and God bless you both for sharing!

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    1. Absolutely, dearest Faisal, the promise and the hope for the future. It really does lift the spirits and make things seem well with the world.

      We got totally lost trying to find the Budapest Music Centre as it is still shrouded by building site hoardings!!!It is due to open formally in March.....we shall see. However, the sight of heating pipes clad in insulating material and electricity cables running round the walls did give the place a somewhat 'space age' quality. The acoustics, we have to say, were excellent!

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  39. Simply fabulous. I can remember going to University for the day with my daughter (long story)to be surrounded by young people full of life and energy is wonderfully energising for an oldster like me. Verve and enthusiasm tends to lessen along the way somewhat, youth rubs off and makes you feel full of life. Your drinks party will be remembered I am sure for your splendid hospitality and charming personalities - bliss.

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    1. Less of the old, Susan!!! We do so agree that to be in the company of young, talented individuals is a most uplifting experience. It does invigorate one and gives one confidence to try out new ideas and interests.

      We too shall hold dear in our hearts memories of the drinks party when so many different worlds collided in the name and shared love of music making.

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  40. Bard's benefactors are well-known for their generous connections to Hungary and I am delighted to read that you, among so many others, are enjoying the results. Belated Happy New Year, dear Hattatts, I am so glad you're back!

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    1. The support being given by Bard College to the students is truly wonderful.Not only for the quality of its academic and musical teaching programmes but in its encouragement of exposing young talent to the wider world.

      Thank you for your very kind New Year wishes. We trust that 2013 will be joyous, healthy and peaceful for you!!!

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  41. Softly falling snow and a concert in an unfinished hall, surreal for sure.

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    1. The walls dotted with paint rather resembled falling snow......all very strange, but beautiful!

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  42. I would certainly say, that your feelings on that night were all the things you wrote .anticipation..the light snow falling, the empty concert hall, the lights and ever so much more.
    What a wonderful experience to hear such young talented players.
    They are out into the big world now, lets hope that one day, you get to entertain them again.
    A delightful evening indeed .
    Thank you for sharing this delightful evening and week Jane and Lance.
    best wishes
    val

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    1. We certainly feel very privileged that our paths have crossed with those of the Bard College students. They are such excellent role models for the music profession and for the youth of today. Intelligent, talented and self-effacing, they are delightful, each and every one.

      We do hope that this meeting will not be the last....

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  43. You transported me to the magic of the evening so beautifully. I can picture the softly falling snow, the excitement of the young musicians. Thank you for sharing this fabulous experience with us.
    My Best,
    Jennifer

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    1. Thank you, Jennifer, for your most kind and generous comment. Once we had finally found the concert hall, no mean feat in itself, the music transported us to another place entirely!!!

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  44. How wonderful, Jane and Lance. To see and hear young talent demonstrating its gifts is always a joy, however temporarily unprepossessing the surroundings. At a less advanced level we always look forward to the concerts given by the music centre our daughter and two eldest grandsons attend each Saturday morning, learning not only music but the pleasure of making it together.

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    1. But how lovely. Perpetua, to be listening to, and sharing, music with your daughter and grandsons each week. That indeed must be a real pleasure and something to which you must look forward.

      We are already missing the members of the Bard Conservatory!

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    2. Sadly we only manage to attend the occasional concert, as they are in North Yorkshire and we in Wales.

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    3. Even as we wrote 'each week' we thought that we had probably got this not quite right. Now we do understand - thank you!

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  45. it makes the world a bit lighter and lovelier to think there are evenings like this being enjoyed by people like you. It almost makes up for someone having loosed Honey Boo Boo on the world. Almost.

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    1. We should like to think that all such similar occasions, wherever they may take place, would contribute to, as you say, making the world "a bit lighter and lovelier". A lovely thought.

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  46. I would have loved to be there. It sounds like such a magical and romantic evening. I am sure these incredibly talented young people will enchant audiences far and wide in the future.

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    1. As you so rightly say, Loree, it was a totally magical evening and one that we should not have wished to miss for anything. Yes, we too think that these young people will go a long way in their professions. They certainly deserve to.

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  47. How wonderful that you both immerse yourself in the young music scene, as salon host, connoisseurs and to bring together talents and lovers of music together under one roof. Surely you will see many talents blossom and you can say you have known them from the start! What a gift you are to all around you!

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    1. You are most generous, Victoria. But it is wonderful to have the opportunity to meet with and get to know highly creative, talented young people. We are certain that they will all continue to develop professionally and will become the names to look out for in the future.

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  48. That looks like a fun party and a marvelous concert. Thanks for bringing us along. Thanks too for your kind comments on my blog. I'm so happy to have met you too!

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    1. It was, as you say, great fun indeed and the concert we shall remember for a long time to come.

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  49. Dear Jane and Lance, what a beautiful evening you must have had. I was immediately drawn to the barren half finished walls of this cavernous space, the beauty of it, the simplicity. The focus is entirely on the music, the musicians, the sounds and not on the surroundings, which in an elaborate theatre might have taken centre stage. A drinks party to meet all the musicians sounds like a lovely event! Thank you for joining me on my blog! I look forward to browsing your blog as I type!

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    1. We do agree with you, Sharon, that so often at concerts the surroundings can distract from the actual music. Not so, as you rightly say, in this case. And even when complete, we suspect that the main concert hall of The Budapest Music Centre will be quite stark.

      Thank you so much for becoming a Follower; we are delighted to have found you too.

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  50. It must have been a blessed relief from all those Christmas carols we all had to endure. The starkness of the hall will only improve the acoustics, where you can whisper and still be heard. Hit Me With Your Rhythm stick is playing on the radio as I type. How uncanny!

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    1. The music was certainly very different from Slade, and for that we are truly grateful. We know that you would have loved all the 'posh' frocks, not to mention the gossip in the interval.

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  51. Very cool...now if I could only hear the concert:)

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    1. If you have time, then listen to the Mendelssohn by clicking on the link at the end of the post.

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  52. It seems that you had a beautiful and wonderful evening at this concert. Is heartening that young people offer these beautiful events. I wish them success in their music tour.
    Thank you for sharing with us !

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    1. It is, Olympia, quite so that it is most heart warming to see young people working together in such a creative and purposeful way. And, when they are as talent as the students from Bard then one really does have faith in youth!

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  53. What a beautifully written post. I love your sketches of the musicians.

    I'm off to listen to the Mendelssohn

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    1. We are so pleased that you have enjoyed the post. The Mendelssohn is, we feel, wonderful. And the more one listens, the more wonderful it becomes.

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  54. What a lovely party, and you have conjured a wonderful atmosphere. I can imagine the snow gently falling as you made your way. Thank you for posting the Mendelssohn link - it's not a piece I am familiar with, but I very much enjoyed listening to it. Is the Concert Hall in the midst of a revamp, or is it a new building?

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    1. The night of the concert was one of those darkly romantic evenings with snow falling and snow on the ground which somehow added to the atmosphere of the occasion.

      The Budapest Music Centre is a building which was, previously, an old apartment house which is now being given new life. The actual concert hall was formerly an open courtyard onto which all the flats opened.

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  55. How poetic and unforgettable, no wonder you two Jane and Lance keep falling in love with each other over and over again...Lovely :).

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    1. This is such a wonderful thing for you to have said, Petronela. We are so fortunate to have found each other now nearly thirty-three years ago.

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  56. how magical......being void of musical talent I am always in awe of such talent!!

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    1. We so enjoy music but really know so very little. And when we are confronted with such exceptional talent, then........!!

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  57. A music concert and that too by such young, talented artists must have been an absolute joy to be a part of. Although I have attended very few live concerts, I must say, with your lovely writing, you brought the creatively charged evening alive to us.
    Thank you for taking us on such eclectic and delightful (and may I add, much-needed?!) tours every now and then.

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    1. You are so right, Suman. We had such fun with the musicians throughout the week in which they were in Budapest and the concert, when it finally arrived exceeded all our expectations. Hearing music live is so very different from a recording.

      And now, very shortly, they will return to their College life and homes in the United States but will, we trust, come to Hungary again at some point in the future.

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  58. Bravo indeed!

    My daughter was long a member of the youth orchestra here (violin) and it was always a privilege to listen to them perform.

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    1. How wonderful to have a musician, Annie, in the family. We do agree about the privilege that it is to be able to listen to performances given by the young, many of whom are so very talented.

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  59. There is nothing to beat live music and this looks like just the sort of event I would have enjoyed (being there I mean - not vicariously through your bog post!). How wonderful also to meet the musicians. Just before Christmas we attended a wonderful open-air concert here in Lanzarote. Our friend Camilla, who sings with the Swedish National Opera, and her friends, were on top form. My father died at the end of November and we brought my mother (aged 92) over here to spend Christmas with us. She is a lifelong lover of opera and was enthralled by the wonderful performance. A golden memory for me to treasure.

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    1. We very much agree with what you say here, Marilyn, about the power of live music and we are certain that you would have very much enjoyed the concert.

      The open air concert around Christmas time sounds to us absolutely perfect. And yes, somehow or other if the musicians are known to one, it really does make a huge difference.

      We are sorry to learn of the death of your father but are filled with admiration for your mother to have travelled to be with you and are delighted to know that she was thrilled with the performance.

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  60. Dearest Jane and Lance! I have just spent the most distracted and wonderful forty five minutes listening to music and, then, trying to type out a comment and, then, getting pulled back in to the music. The three short paragraphs that I have, at the moment, written here are completely loopy!!! However, I have now stopped trying to listen and type at the same time and, yet, what an edifying almost-an-hour of sanity this has been for me!

    I'm afraid that my mind and my words have been a tired jumble the past few days (only good for ridiculous Facebook fodder - pah!) and I have been putting off coming here till I could really concentrate...but, then, finally, giving up on being able to concentrate... now, where was I? Oh, just... you'll have to take what you can get here:

    Well, I have just been enjoying a good long chamber concert of my own. =] But... wait... I have the compelling, darling spitfire of talent - Sabrina Tabby playing Beethoven in another open tab on my computer and I don't think I can do 'B' and type at the same time.

    There! That's better! Of course I know and love the Mozart - it is on the two CDs that I blogged about last spring. =] But I wasn't sure if I knew the Schubert and have been listening. Nope, I don't know that one but, once again, I think of how romantic, in the true sense of the word, Schubert's music is. It's so lush! You must have spent some wonderfully charming time listening to it at the concert. Then, I scrolled down to see who that very last composer was but realized that you had a link to David Nagy and off I went again and wound up by the end of it with some quirky and fun modern music...

    How wonderful that you can, actually, share with us a sampling of how talented these amazing young people are. 'What a fascinating modern age we live in!' More than that, what wonderful *musicians* they are. Anyway, I listened for a while to the Mendelssohn (first and third movements and, now, the second... wait... I've been gone for many more minutes... the second pulled me right in and I went to watch and listend - beautiful!)

    so, where was I? Oh! That's right! I've been off being edified! Well, you get the picture.

    Going to a concert is a sparkling event in one's life, isn't it? No matter how many times one goes... or where or when it is. The excitement builds as one gets dressed and, then, ventures out the door and I can only imagine that with the glittering, muted snow - it must have amplified your excitement and feeling of anticipation!

    Listening to music on a speaker in the (sometimes) quiet of my home can lead to some moments of great connect with the music (especially when it's accompanied by the breeze and real bird song as one digs in one's garden!!! =D) But, live music - being expressed at the very moment - somewhat of a spiritual experience, isn't it? Then! To actually know a bit of the hearts and minds of the musicians (instead of squinting through opera glasses) brings even more of a 'connect' and communication. Fun!

    I'll just stop there but what a wonderful start to the new year!! =]

    xxo

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    1. And if the music sparkles, then so does this wonderful comment, dearest Katy, where your real love and devotion to this aspect of the Arts comes through in each sentence that you write. What too is so wonderful is your outright enthusiasm, but then we suspect that this applies to so many different and varied areas of your life.

      Yes, these musicians are wonderful and it has been such a marvellous experience getting to know them. They have so much talent, energy and vitality that one cannot help but be swept along with it all. The marvellous thing is, as you say, that in the modern world it is possible to have access to so much outstanding music, and other things of course, which would have been quite beyond the reach of, say, our grandparents.

      Have a wonderful, restful and musical weekend.

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    2. Thank you for your kind response!!! I hesitated.... my enthusiasm.... it would be much safer to attempt to hide it behind a cool and seemingly apathetic veneer. People are so doubtful and suspicious of it, it seems. I considered scrapping the comment and coming back when I felt more, er, 'succinct'. But, then... that's a precious rare moment ;) and, when I do that - that's when it seems that I've disappeared and you never hear from me. So, I closed one eye and squinted through the other - trusting you - and pressed publish! =]

      Love to you both!! =] xoxo

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    3. Dearest, dearest Katy how we love the exuberancy and the immediacy of your thoughts. We cannot bear to think of you waiting around until you cool down, oh now, that would be too awful. Please continue to say/write it all as it is. Live the moment, that is our motto and, we are certain, it is shared with you too.

      Snowing here in Budapest but it has been a glorious sunny day. Off tonight for dinner with Sabrina and David as a final farewell to the Bard European Tour. We shall miss them.

      Hoping that your weekend is going wonderfully well!!! Love, J and L xx

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  61. What a fabulous thing to do! Mostly I am very happy up here on my Welsh hill but I do need the occasional injection of city life to keep the balance, particularly European cities. This sounds to represent everything that is best about the cities of Europe. I have only briefly been to Budapest but for long enough to be able to imagine this. You make me feel like getting on a plane right now!

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    1. It has to be said that there are times when we miss the countryside and where you are is so very, very beautiful. That said, we are more than happy living in this most interesting city where, particularly in the area of music, there is always much going on.

      And we are delighted to know that you have visited Budapest. You must do so again. Meanwhile thank you so much for your comment; we shall hope to welcome you here again.

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  62. Dear Jane and Lance,

    The two of you are really special!! Your posts always bring a smile on my face. Lucky you to be surrounded by all those young and inspiring people! I have a feeling that you have not only found someone to play the pianoforte, but the hobo, cello and violin as well!!!

    Have a good Sunday!

    Madelief x

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    1. Why indeed stop at the pianoforte when we can have a whole orchestra?!! But seriously, it has all been the most wonderful fun and we will miss them all hugely when they return, as they are now doing, to the United States. There will though be other times to which we much look forward.

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  63. Greetings humans, Jane and Lance,

    What a wondrous collection of young talent you have duly noted. For a moment there I thought it read The 'Bark' College Conservatory of Music. Then I realised it was the wrong conservatory. My apologies. Must be all my election campaigning.

    Have a pawsitive weekend.

    Penny the Jack Russell dog and next 'Paw Minister' of Britain!

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    1. Your election campaigning, Gary, seems to be gaining momentum with each day that passes!

      We wish you a really happy week ahead.

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  64. Hello! Thank you so much for popping by and for following - I'm so glad to connect with you via the wonderful Heather! And can't wait to follow along in your fascinating footsteps - what a wonderful life you are leading!

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    1. This is so very kind of you. We are delighted too to have made the connection with you and much look forward to sharing future posts.

      Meanwhile, have a happy and restful Sunday and thank you so much for becoming a Follower.

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  65. My dearest Jane and Lance,

    Thank you so much for taking me to an enchanted world which I'd like to imagine as "Hattatt's Court". It is just as fascinating as the court of Isabella d'Este in Mantua during the Renaissance or a special gathering with grace and style at Garsington, the home of Lady Ottoline Morrell.

    It is so very rare to find a couple who are cognoscenti in their own right, to devote their time to cherish and nurture the brightest things that are associated with the mind, the music and the talent. The setting of the evening and the concert are exquisite and the language of musical appreciation is rich and pure Sitwellian. This must be one of those singular evenings one would hope to relive again and again.

    With best wishes, ASD

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    1. How generous, as always, of you dear ASD. Alas, we somewhat lack the resources of both Isabella d'Este and Ottoline Morrell although of the latter we know much and, of course, loved Garsington apart from the fact that it is now, very sadly, almost a suburb of Oxford.

      The pleasure which we have had from those members of the Bard Conservatory who took part in the Central European Tour is undeniable. They are all, without exception, so very vivacious, such fun, and extraordinarily talented. And through them we have met other wonderful people and so, even though the musicians are returned to the United States, for now, the party goes on.

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  66. Dear Jane and Lance - How wonderful to host these wonderful young artists! And to celebrate their talents. I would love to one day attend more live concerts.....educate myself a bit more on classical music. Yes, it should be a resolution for 2013. Thank you for sharing. Have a wonderful weekend. We're celebrating a long holiday weekend here in the U.S.
    Cheers from DC,
    Loi

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    1. It has been the most marvellous of times, Loi, and we have had huge fun. Do try to attend some more concerts for that becomes one of the best ways of learning about, and appreciating, classical music.

      WE hope that you have a hugely enjoyable weekend and send you our very best wishes from a bitterly cold and wintry Europe.

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  67. Hello there....
    Just wanted to say 'Thank you' for popping in on me and leaving kind words.
    It is always lovely to find new and exciting blogs.
    Like finding a beautiful new book to delve into. I feel I have enjoyed a wonderful evening out after reading your lovely post.~ Take time to dream... Love Maria x

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    1. We are so pleased to welcome you here. Thank you for your kind comment, it was indeed a most magical evening and we feel privileged to have met such a charming and talented group of individuals.

      We hope that we shall see you back here again, perhaps as a Follower?

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  68. Dearest Jane and Lance!

    Your soirée looks as if it was a great success, with so many smiling faces. Your support of these young artists will never be forgotten, for I remember the wonderful gatherings that my dear theatre professor would hold at her lovely manor in the woods. Each room filled to the brim with books, fireplaces roaring with comforting fires, and great conversation and wisdom coming from her hearth. To this day, in her late 80s, she still supports us thespians who have gone on to other things.

    Your apartment is stunning, from what I can see! And thank you kindly for coming to visit my post, At the Vestibule of Day. ENJOY LIFE! Anita

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    1. Thank you, Anita, for such a kind and generous comment. Your gatherings at the 'manor in the woods' sound to have been blissfully inspiring with so many talented individuals gathered under one roof. If in some small way we can contribute to the careers of these most talented of young musicians, we shall be thrilled. We shall, whatever, watch their progress with avid interest.

      We did so enjoy your post with so many incredible images as illustration of your thoughts and ideas. We always come away with our minds racing!!!

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  69. Well, this gives me great hope for the future of classical music! I just listened to the marvelous young musicians...thank you, dear friends, for the link...
    I can imagine the excitement and infusion of creative energy during these lovely get-togethers, not to mention the actual concerts...
    Right now, the air is rather heavy in the Twin Cities, as both world-class orchestras are in lock-out...
    We pray that the managements come to their senses in some way, and help save these cultural treasures...
    As for the wonderfully talented Bard musicians...may their futures hold great promise!
    Thank you for sharing this lovely and exhilarating experience with us...
    And may your week be full of joy and wonder, dearest Jane and Lance!
    Much love,
    - Irina

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    1. We know that you share our view that cultural events are the very heart of a nation and so keeping music alive wherever and whenever possible is so important. It is, of course, particularly gratifying when one sees young musicians coming forward with a passion for their playing. It helps one believe that all is well with the world.

      We too hope that these talented young people from Bard continue to make progress in their musical careers. The way ahead looks difficult but we believe that they are more than up to the challenge.

      Hoping you are keeping warm and well and wishing you a lovely week ahead!

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    2. Indeed, they are...with such passion, purpose, and talent...
      Thank you, and you stay warm and cozy as well!!
      xoxo

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    3. We shall indeed, thank you. Slightly warmer today and it has been raining!

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  70. How glorious, Jane and Lance. What an exceptional evening. Magical really. How many other times in your life will all these wonderful events coalesce?

    And thanks, as always, for sharing your adventures - musical and otherwise.

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    1. We tend to think, Yvette, that these magical moments do not come along very frequently so, when they do cross one's path, we feel that we must seize them before they go away. In this case, we feel terribly privileged to have been part of the Bard College Central European Tour and we look forward to a continuing friendship with the young people involved.

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  71. Dear Hattatts
    I yearn to be a salonnière......does having people round for tea, cake and a chat about 'The Today' programme count?

    How wonderful your lives are and thank you as always for sharing

    Best wishes
    Jenny

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    1. Jenny, how we love the term 'saloniére' [sorry, we can only do an acute accent!!] and are adopting it forthwith. And actually, we do rather miss the 'Today' programme and talking about it.

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  72. Such beautiful music. What a privilege to be surrounded by so much talent!

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    1. We have enjoyed the company of the musicians equally to that of the music.

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  73. Dear Jane and Lance, bless you greatly for taking these young folks under your wings. They will remember your kindness all their days and will have an impact on others by passing your blessing forward. It looks like a delightful time was had by all. If those old walls could talk...such a delightful, charming post!

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    1. Thank you so much, Sandra. But in truth it is we who will remember them for they have, in such a short time, come into our lives as real friends and we are confident that there will be many future happy times to be spent together.

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  74. Thank you for visiting my blog and commenting :)
    Music, oh my so wonderful.

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    1. It is a pleasure. And we shall hope to see you here again.

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  75. I always love stepping into another world with you.

    All joys,

    Sharon

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    1. On this occasion, Sharon, we really did have great fun.

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  76. "Without music life would have been a mistake" Nietsche (forgive the paraphrasing but the essence remains true) ♥

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    1. Angy, you are completely forgiven for this is such a perfect thought! Our thinking entirely, we have to say!

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  77. Heel Jane and Lance,

    Once again you open up such a wonderfully cultured world to me! The evening of music at the concert hall sounds divine, and I am pleased you may such inspiring friends in such a short time. Your drinks party looks lie fun, too.

    Take care, Tammy xx

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    1. Our lives have certainly been enriched through meeting this delightful group of young people. We were so sad to see them all go home at the end of a wonderfully successful tour. However, they have also introduced us to several young musicians in Budapest so the magic goes on!

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  78. Hi Jane and Lance,

    Not sure if my last comment worked? I am using my silly iPad, which is not helping.

    The concert sounded wonderful, as did your making of young and inspiring friends. You open a beautifully cultured world to me, thank you.

    Regards, Tammy xx

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  79. Sounds interesting. You got me googling Sunbin Kim. I managed to find his blog, with mp3s. I think I'll have a listen...

    http://sunbinkim.wordpress.com/performancesrecordings/

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    1. Dominic, we are thrilled that you have followed up Sunbin Kim. He is a prodigious talent as well as being extremely personable and highly self-effacing. We think that he will be a future name to watch out for.

      We have now found your most interesting blog and have signed ourselves as Followers. We do so hope that we shall welcome you here again!!

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  80. I love your posts on Budapest for the wonderful insight they give to actually living in a city that I enjoy visiting. X Dolly

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