Reviews

On the concerto version

“The evening’s centerpiece was Zhou Tian’s Flute Concerto, which he wrote for Stillman. Stillman is a multifaceted, award-winning flutist who is also the founding artistic director of the Dolce Suono Ensemble and a faculty member at Temple University in Philadelphia. She spoke briefly about the piece, explaining that Zhou’s writing reflects on the flute tradition in various cultures, such as the Baroque, as well as French, American and Chinese cultures.

Zhou’s gift for melody was apparent from the first movement, entitled “Irises.” This was the lengthiest movement, opening with an impressionistic- like canvas of lush orchestral sounds and floating themes for the flute, followed by a section of nonstop virtuosities. The bright orchestral colors included the glimmering sounds of harp, glockenspiel, vibraphone and xylophone.

But above all, the concerto was a real showpiece for this flutist, who soared effortlessly through its wide-ranging melodies, runs and trills. The second movement, “Capriccio,” was a scherzo, with syncopated, slightly jazzy rhythms. Stillman’s phrases on flute were echoed in trumpet, a vibrant touch.

Stillman played with mesmerizing artistry in the slow movement, “Arioso,” offering a breathtaking display of arpeggios and communicating with beautiful tone. The movement built to a sumptuous climax. The finale, a “Toccata,” was vibrant and driving.”
—Cincinnati Business Courier