The Sooke Philharmonic Society named this competition in recognition of the extraordinary support Don Chrysler gave to the Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra during his lifetime. His wife, Janette Chrysler, is principal cellist of the Sooke Philharmonic.
On Saturday, April 30, 2011, five finalists — chosen from approximately 15 applicants — played their complete concerti at the University of Victoria’s Phillip T. Young Recital Hall.
• Eva Hodge, piano: Concerto No. 1 in Eb Major, by Liszt
• Jordan Ofiesh, violin: Concerto in D major, Op. 77, by Brahms
• Karnsiri Laothamatas, piano: Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11, by Chopin
• Jeffrey Poynter, alto saxophone: Sonata in C#, by Fernande Decruck
• Nelson Moneo, violin: Concerto in D minor, Op. 47, by Sibelius
The adjudicators for the competition were internationally recognized musicians and Professors of Music: Michael Bowie, violist and conductor; Helmut Brauss, world-renowned pianist; and William Street, saxophonist. At the end of the evening — capably emceed by Sooke Philharmonic Society Past President Sue Hyslop — the adjudicators awarded Jordan Ofiesh second prize ($300), and Nelson Moneo first prize: $500 and an invitation to play his Sibelius concerto with the Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra Celebration of Young Artists concerts in October 2011 (Sooke: Oct. 29; Victoria: Oct. 30).
The Sooke Philharmonic Society expresses sincere thanks to Long & McQuade for their donation of the prizes.
All in attendance would agree that it is gratifying to witness these young people who are able to focus on developing their talents to such a high level. The warm reception the audience gave each performer seemed ample expression of their joy, pleasure and appreciation of the enormous effort it takes to prepare and present works that are musical “marathons.”
The Don Chrysler Concerto Competition is supported by numerous donors, and the fundraising campaign is ongoing to ensure a financial base in future years.
For more information about the competition, please call 250-642-2849 or email:info@sookephil.ca.
The next performance of the Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra is on June 24 and 25 where Musical Friends perform music by Beethoven, Brahms and Dvorak.