Mozart’s Magic Meets Miro Quartet’s Mastery on Stage

SEDONA, AZ – Chamber Music Sedona hosted a vibrant concert titled “Rendezvous with Benny Goodman” on Sunday, January 12. The event featured the acclaimed Miró Quartet, including Daniel Ching on violin, John Largess on viola, Joshua Gindele on cello, and clarinetist David Shifrin. In a last-minute adjustment due to the absence of regular second violinist William Fedkenheuer, Aaron Boyd from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center filled in seamlessly.

The concert opened with Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 2 in G Major. This early work offered a contrast of formal elegance and youthful exuberance. The first movement shifted between lively gaiety and melancholic themes, showcasing Ching’s dynamic playing. The exploration continued in the second movement, where the quartet’s delicate interpretation shone through. Brief energetic moments hinted at the forthcoming scherzo, which quickly became a spirited exchange of musical ideas. The final movement marked a return to Beethoven’s signature vibrancy, with the quartet’s lively energy culminating in a powerful climax.

Then, Shifrin joined the ensemble for Alan Shulman’s “Rendezvous for Clarinet and Strings,” a mid-century piece initially written for Goodman. The performance launched with an energetic string entrance, blending elements of suspense akin to a Hitchcock film, with a clarinet that felt both youthful and carefree. This blend captured the essence of Shulman’s imagination, illustrating the collision of urban landscapes with poignant melodies.

The quintet delved into three arrangements of Goodman’s own compositions. “Smooth One” resonated with the rhythmic feel of a swing era cabaret, accentuated by Shifrin’s fluid clarinet lines. “How Am I To Know” showcased evocative interplay between the violins, while “Temptation Rag” introduced a lively Latin rhythm, drawing applause from attendees familiar with its influence on classic Disney scores. The ensemble engaged the audience with an energetic performance, highlighting Gindele’s exceptional bowing technique.

Post-intermission, the ensemble presented Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet in A Major, featuring some of the composer’s most cherished melodies. Shifrin adeptly navigated both playful and somber sections, with the Miró Quartet providing an intimate backdrop. The second movement allowed for lyrical exchanges, where Shifrin and Ching displayed synchrony in their melodies.

The concert’s narrative weaved through a gentle minuet before transitioning into a lively fourth movement, rich with character. The Miró Quartet gave a measured interpretation, allowing the clarinet’s prominence to shine through. Their execution effectively captured the playful spirit of Mozart, inviting the audience to connect deeply with the music.

To conclude the evening, the ensemble invigorated the crowd with a spirited encore of Goodman’s “Sing, Sing, Sing,” leaving attendees in high spirits and eager for future performances.