Tuesday, April 16, 2002

Talent, Energy and Emotion: Kate Dillingham Debuts

When you witness raw talent, that's been refined, it's an inspiration beyond words at times. Tuesday, April 16th, cellist Kate Dillingham moved the audience at Merkin Hall with her performance that evening. Accompanied by noted pianist Blair McMillen (http://www.blairmcmillen.com/) they brought us on an emotional journey with the following pieces: Sonata No.2 in D BWV 1028, J. S. Bach; "Chant" for cello and piano, Augusta Read Thomas; Five Pieces in Folk Style op.102, Robert Schumann; Sonate, Claude Debussy; Suite for Solo Cello, Jennifer Higdon and Suite Espanole, Joaquin Nin. Her world premiere pieces, both by women composers, were especially dramatic in these modern times.

Afterwards, guests enjoyed Bombay drinks-prepared by "celebrity" bartenders including myself, attorney Brad Simon and Janine Trusello--and hors d'oeuvres. Even some tech-folks came out for the night of culture, like Bob Wyman, Julio Cassels and VSA consultant Laine Harris. While the room was hot (Merkin hadn't turned on their air conditioning yet) the celebratory mood kept people's spirits high. And with a successful debut like this one in New York added to her already impressive resume, Kate is on her way to grander performances in the future.