COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (Aug. 19, 2008) — TTU Professor of Flute Roger Martin will present his annual faculty recital on Tuesday, September 2nd at 7:30pm in the Wattenbarger Auditorium of the Bryan Fine Arts Building on the Tennessee Tech campus.

Appearing with Martin are pianist Joy Rachor (Minister of Music at Cumberland Presbyterian Church) and guitarist T.G. Engel (a member of the music faculty at Martin Methodist College in Pulaski, TN and former guitarist with Kenny Rogers’ band).

The program will consist of three pieces.

The first, “Sonata for flute and piano,” is a short, cheerful, single-movement work by 19th century opera composer Gaetano Donizetti.

Next is Robert Beaser’s “Variations for flute and piano.” Written in 1981, this substantive, three-movement composition is an example of Beaser’s intent to “put traditional forms into new clothing.”

Using a harmonic language reminiscent of Aaron Copland, Beaser explores here what he calls “transformational” variations in which the theme is altered throughout the course of the piece to present its opposite in character and mood. It is a fine composition and a tour de force for both instruments.

Concluding the program is Argentinan composer Astor Piazzolla’s “Histoire du Tango” for flute and guitar.

Famous for using the tango music of his native Buenos Aires as a basis for “classical” compositions, Piazzolla brings the dance rhythms and sultry melodies of mid-20th century night life to the flute/guitar duo.

This recital is free and open to the public.

--Tracey Hackett
This information posted 22 August 2008