This past Friday, Sept. 16 brought guest artists Molly Gebrian, viola, and Danny Holt, piano and percussion, to the Harper Hall stage at 8 p.m. Gebrian and Holt first came to know each other at fifteen years old when they attended the same summer music camp. Gebrian and Holt showcased contemporary works commissioned for “Trios for Two,” produced by Gebrian when her Doctor of Musical Arts program at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music demanded a final project. “Trios for Two” aimed to highlight the talents of Holt, who plays not only the piano but several percussive instruments simultaneously.
Gebrian and Holt executed a total of five pieces, all of which were composed for “Trios for Two.” Though all were professionally done, a few pieces were played exceptionally, including “Third Nature” by Christopher Goddard, which challenged the technical skill of Gebrian, and “Black and White” by Chiayu, whose mysterious pair of characters allowed Gebrian and Holt’s expressive capabilities to shine.
“Trios for Two” brought several things to the Harper Hall stage that night. Whether it was the contemporary music, odd instrumentation or outstanding musicianship, all in attendance left the space with something new.
