Cormack, Shelley

Press, 24 June 1989, Page 8

Cormack, Shelley

Justine Cormack (violin) and, lola Shelley (piano), presented by the Arts Centre of Christchurch at the Great Hall, June 23, 1.10 p.m. Reviewed by Philip Norman. The University of Canterbury School of Music seems to be producing an unending string of good violinists. Following on the heels of Martin Riseley’s successful lunchtime recital last week, Justine Cormack offered a promising account yesterday of sonatas by Mozart and Brahms. She was accompanied by lola Shelley on the piano and, in select passages, by an anonymous renovator of Rutherford’s Den on ancillary percussion. Of the two works, Brahms’ “Violin sonata in D minor Op. 108” was given the more satisfying airing. One of Justine Cormack’s strengths is her bowing arm, and this was allowed full play in the outer movements. Though occasionally roughly shod, the

rhythms were nonetneless executed with flair and vitality. There was a zest to her sound that appealed. Excellent restraint was shown in the Adagio, yet the tone struck retained its warmth and body. The treatment of the opening theme was especially lyrical. The performance of Mozart’s "Violin Sonata in A major K. 526” was less convincing, mainly because it was guided with a heavy hand. Though cleanly articulated and of hearty spirits, the interpretation carried unsettling touches of aggression. That the piano line tended to dominate for much of the work’s course did not help. In spite of reservations about specific points in the playing, it was obvious that Justine Cormack is a violinist of considerable potential. She has an able technique, an ear for musical sounds, and a stylish performing manner. It will be interesting to watch her progress.