JAVS Fall 2002

60

V OL 18 0 . 2 & 3

j OUR.'\AL OF THE AMERICA.'\ V IOL<\ SOCIE.n

Beginning with only a few students, Mr. Gonzalez has brought new enthusiasm and recognition for the viola in Peru. Almost single-handedly, he has encouraged students to find their special voice in the alto!tenor member of the violin family. By mid 2001 he felt that his students were ready for the challenge and inspiration that a Viola Festival could offer. Having organized Maine's first Viola Congress back in 1983 when Emanuel Vardi carne as guest clinician/conducrorlperformer, I had a good idea how to proceed. Together with Roberto I set up a schedule ofmaster classes, viola ensemble rehearsals, a concert of Mozart and Brahms viola quintets with professional players, a solo recital by the students, and a culminating concert of viola ensembles. Solo performance literature included works by Cordli, J. S. Bach, Telemann, Bruch, Cassadesus, von Weber, Srarnitz, ]. C. Bach, Walton, Schubert, and Reger.

Viola choir arrangements and original Literature included works by J. S. Bach, Pachelbel, Telemann, York Bowen, and Gordon Jacob, and a work by Peruvian composer Nilo Velarde commissioned especially for the Festival. The ensembles of four, six, eight, and sixteen violas produced an extraordinarily beautiful sound of depth and character unique to the viola. In a week of classes and rehearsals, students were expe riencing phenomenal growth and a new-found sense of identity with their instrument. When a trip to Peru is next on your agenda, make it a point to explore also Peru's cultural offer ings. Surely the Cuarrero Lima and the violists in Peru will welcome you with an exciting level of music-making! 8 - j ulia Adams is Violist with the Portland String Quartet andArtist in Residence at Colby College.

julia Adams with mnnbers ofthe Cuarteto Lima

Roberto Gonzalez andjulia Adams