OBOIST Leleux and conductor Popovič in perfect harmony. photo: Courtesy of ACEC |
Initiated by the Slovak Association for Culture, Education, and Communication (ACEC)on the occasion of Slovakia's entry to the European Union, the project's aim is to present Slovakia in all member countries. During the events, talks on economic issues are combined with cultural performances. The Paris event took place on May 27 at the Gabriel Pavilion.
The pavilion is situated on a beautiful green alley in the very heart of Paris, next to the presidential palace. Constructed for the first World Exposition, it is now used for private functions, business meetings, and official receptions. On the evening of May 27, it opened its doors to the guests of the Slovak Embassy in France, welcomed by ambassador Mária Krasnohorská.
The evening's atmosphere was relaxed, friendly, and joyful. The Slovak Chamber Orchestra and the Trumpets Ensemble, conducted by Anton Popovič, took the stage. The solemn sounds of the Concerto by Georg Philipp Telemann started the concert.
The orchestra, formed by young Slovak musicians, demonstrated a rare unity, enthusiasm, and outstanding music quality. The Concerto, written 200 years ago and interpreted by the orchestra, sounded very modern. Its massive chords, youthful and forthcoming rhythms, as well as the profound lyrics of the slow movements corresponded to the dynamics of our times.
The participation of two soloists - Slovak and French - symbolised a new European cooperation. Appearing first was the Slovak soprano singer Ľubica Vargicová, who has already conquered famous opera stages around the world. She performed two arias of the Queen of the Night from The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The demanding coloraturas of these arias were interpreted with brilliance, precision, and inspiration.
SOPRANO Ľubica Vargicová. photo: Courtesy of ACEC |
His musical style was marked by elegance, sophistication, and perfect intonation. Accompanied by the Slovak Chamber Orchestra, he played the Concerto for Oboe and Orchestra by Mozart. Total harmony and mutual understanding between the soloist and the orchestra crowned this performance.
In the second part of the concert, the orchestra played Four Compositions by the Slovak composer Peter Zagar, and Symphony by Joseph Haydn.
"Music is a universal language," Leleux said after the concert. "It does not need any translation. That's why musicians of different nationalities can understand each other without words.
And that's what happened tonight. We really enjoyed playing together and I hope we will cooperate in the future as well."
One can only hope that such harmonious cooperation is found between Slovakia and other EU countries in all fields.