What do J.S. Bach, Robert Schumann, Frédéric Chopin and Samuel Barber have in common? Notably, 2010 marks the 100th birthday of Barber and the 200th birthdays of both Chopin and Schumann.

To mark these occasions, the Faculty Artist and Friends series presents Glen Montgomery in Recital. This extraordinary evening of piano music, performed by Montgomery, takes place in the University Recital Hall on Saturday, Nov. 20 at 8 p.m.

Audiences can look forward to a collection of skillfully crafted compositions. Offerings include the lyrical Bach Prelude and Fugue in F# minor, Schumann’s Papillons, a Chopin polonaise and nocturne, and a magnificent sonata by Samuel Barber, which includes aspects of traditional American music.

Montgomery explains these composers share more than just birthdays, their compositions all have an affinity and reverence for their mentor, J.S. Bach.

“Chopin and Schumann revered Bach, and despite their apparent romanticism, weave many sub-texts intricately into their compositions, à la Bach,” says Montgomery.  “Barber concludes his Sonata with a wild fugue, again in the style of Bach, but interspersed with American elements and an exhilarating pianistic bravura.”

Montgomery is a highly respected musician who maintains an active performing career while also teaching. In addition to his faculty work, Montgomery travels extensively, performing as a soloist and in collaboration with chamber musicians, such as the Musaeus String Quartet. His recording with cellist Denis Brott of the Brahms sonatas on Analekta has received worldwide acclaim.

Montgomery has performed frequently on CBC and has recorded for Icelandic Radio and television, Belorus television and PBS radio in the United States. He has performed with symphony orchestras in Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, San Diego, Cincinnati and Winnipeg, among others. Recently, Montgomery performed at the international Festival of the Sound in Ontario.

Tickets for this special evening of music can be purchased at the University Box Office, Monday through Friday from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. or by calling 403-329-2616. Tickets are $15 for regular admission and $10 senior/student.

For a look at the full issue of the November Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.