THE turnout was excellent for the first event in Classical Cleveland’s autumn-winter programme, a concert by the cello/piano duo of young musicians from the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester.

Pianist Lief Kader-Lindstrom is from a musical family – both parents are cellists – but Zachary Owen is the first in his family to study music.

The programme order was altered and opened with Schumann’s Fantasiestücke, a beautiful melodic piece, showcasing both instruments well and demonstrating the empathy between the two performers. They play well together, both having an easy, relaxed style.

Debussy’s Cello Sonata in D minor has a very strong piano element, and Kader-Lindstrom’s technique was absolutely beautiful. He has a very fine classical style, calm and assured, and Owen’s cello performance was equally expressive and free of histrionics. They are a remarkable duo.

In the Lent movement the cello reaches into the very depths of its range, and the piano keeps a steady beating heart. The pace quickens dramatically in the third movement, setting a tremendous pace. There was great playing by both performers. They have a tremendous rapport with each other, with wonderful piano playing backing the cello. Very appreciative applause rewarded this piece.

A fine, flowing opening giving both instruments strong statements opened the Shostakovich Cello sonata in D minor. The second movement moves from the lyrical to an irregular, shifting tempo and uneasy melody with the focus moving from one instrument to the other. Although it is ostensibly a cello piece, the piano has a very strong presence and both of these great young musicians gave a very fine performance which was much appreciated by an enthusiastic audience.

The next Classical Cleveland concert at Tuned In! is on Wednesday, November 9, featuring Lee Jae Phang, piano.

Irene MacDonald