arts and culture
Georgiana Dawson Captivates Violin Aficionados
On November 9, a small but enthusiastic crowd at the Sedona Public Library enjoyed a free concert by 10-year-old violinist Georgiana “Georgie” Dawson. The young artist, who hails from Houston, Texas, has made it a tradition to perform during her fall visits to her grandparents in Sedona.
Dawson’s initiative began last year when she decided to express her gratitude to the community through intimate performances. This time, she was accompanied by pianist Luke Arnold, a recent Rice University graduate who has been collaborating with Dawson since her last concert.
Unlike her previous holiday-themed performance, this concert showcased a diverse repertoire. Dawson commenced with Niccolo Paganini’s “Cantabile in D Major,” where her emotional depth and engagement were remarkably enhanced compared to her prior performance. The steadiness of her tone impressed the audience, even as she occasionally paused to refine her control. Her glissandos added a layer of sophistication that captivated listeners.
The concert progressed with the scherzo from Tchaikovsky’s “Souvenir d’un lieu cher.” This lively piece gave Dawson an opportunity to demonstrate her vibrant style and meticulous technique. She maneuvered through the staccato demands with ease, and her interaction with Arnold during the dynamic sections illustrated their seamless teamwork.
Dawson then took center stage to perform the gavotte and rondeau from Bach’s Partita No. 3. Her delivery was light and elegant, showcasing her expert technique and memory; she did not reference sheet music at any point during the concert. The audience relished the intricacies of Bach’s composition as Dawson’s mastery brought the notes vividly to life.
The highlight of the concert was the first movement of Max Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1. Here, both musicians displayed their skill, with Arnold complementing Dawson’s powerful performance through delicate and climactic piano passages. Her agility and trilling ability further underscored her professionalism and poise on stage.
To conclude the afternoon, Arnold lightheartedly introduced “Linus and Lucy,” referencing its connection to his musical upbringing. Dawson closed the concert with a heartfelt rendition of “Over the Rainbow” from “The Wizard of Oz,” earning a standing ovation from the audience.
Carolyn Fisher, a board member of both the Sedona Public Library and the Sedona Symphony, praised Dawson’s performance. She noted that the concert set the perfect tone for the Symphony’s upcoming event, which will spotlight Chamber Music Sedona director Nick Canellakis on cello. Fisher encouraged those present to attend the contrasting yet complementary concert.
