Valentine's Day Brunch & Concert - Feb 14, 2010

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On Valentine’s Day, the Parlor of the Salmagundi Club in Greenwich Village New York was filled to the last chair as violinist Anna Miritza Lundberg played romantic music suited to the theme of the day. Beginning with Jean Sibelius’ Romance, the music and the intimate setting –  with its oriental carpets, 19th century paintings, crystal chandeliers and ornate fireplaces — quickly took the listener back to the 19th century salons. Somewhat familiar, at least to the Finns in the audience, were some of Pablo de Sarasate’s virtuoso tunes, for which he drew inspiration from Spanish Gypsy music. Ms. Lundberg’ spirited playing  was matched by that of accompanying pianist Kalle Toivio, who also performed two solo pieces, one being Frederic Chopin’s Ballade in F minor, the other one the Spanish Rhapsody by Franz Liszt. The performers received a standing ovation, and were called back for an encore: Czardas by Monti. We are grateful for the valuable contribution of our Music Director, Kalle Toivio, in arranging this concert as well as many others earlier and yet to be heard; and like some members in the audience specifically expressed to us, we hope to hear Ms. Lundberg again soon in New York.