Dennis Lee and Chee Hung-Toh, already a familiar couple in Ipoh, was in town once again with their uniquely signature 2-and-4 hand piano recital. Invited guests at the private concert, hosted by PSPA’s patron and advisor, Dato’ Seri Lee Oi Hian and Dato’ Sandra Lee respectively, was suitably impressed with the light classical pieces of the Romantic Era, augmented perhaps by the summery, balmy night that it was.
One dare say that the uninitiated will have been initiated after such a splendid, effortless presentation which belies Dennis’ and Hung-Toh’s many, long years of experience and dedication to their craft.
Dennis and Hung-Toh currently resides in London but traverses the globe frequently in their playing engagements. Not only do they play their stuff well but know it just as well. Each piece is preceded by a clear description of the music and its composer, easing the listener into the mood of the piece.
Saint-Saen’s Carnival of the Animals with its suite of 14 movements was a refreshing change from the more subdued sonata (Sonata in D, Op 33) of Anton Diabelli, nocturne (No 3, Liebestraum) of Franz Liszt or the polonaise (No 2 in C Minor, Op 40) and ballade (No 3 in A Flat Major, Op 47) of Frederic Chopin. Although a chamber and latterly an orchestral piece, Carnival of the Animals was brought vividly to life that night by the four hands of Dennis and Hung-Toh.
A cheerful end to a halcyon night indeed.
Valerie Chan
