The first half of “The Russian Recital” featured concerti by Goedike and Arutunian.  Lavrik’s beautiful, dark tone was immediately evident in the opening cadenza. 
Arranged by Lavrik and somewhat different than the published version, the piece is in the same single movement, multi-sectioned format as Arutunian’s concerto. 
Lesser known than the Concert Etude, Op. 49, the Concerto, Op. 41 by Goedike is a lengthy, demanding piece that deserves wider recognition. 
It was followed by the more famous concerto by Arutunian.  Somewhat faster and more dynamically controlled than most performances, this rendition was electrifying. 
The passion and excitement throughout was palpable.  Lavrik’s performance of this trumpet classic is a must-hear for anyone planning to perform it!

Following a brief intermission, Lavrik performed Anton Arensky’s Concert Waltz.  Originally composed for two pianos, the composer arranged the work for trumpet and piano. 
Speaking briefly to the audience, Lavrik indicated that because of the acoustics of the church, he might play the pieces a little slower.  This seems hard to believe, as the tempi throughout the recital were more than brisk! 
Next was the Concert Allegro, by Vladimir Peskin, in many ways the most demanding work of the recital.  The rhythmic, articulation and technical demands of this piece were daunting, but Lavrik made it look and sound easy.

The second half concluded with a set of songs by Rachmaninoff and Rimsky-Korsakov.  These short works also had technical demands, but were musically rewarding. 
Lavrik stated that when performing these “romances by great Russian composers,” he approaches them as he believes a vocalist would.  In fact, his sound was quite different from the preceding works.
The interaction between Lavrik and the always exceptional Rebecca Wilt was especially evident during these pieces.

Central Lutheran Church provided a beautiful visual and acoustic setting for this program.  In all, an afternoon well spent!

Find the entire conference Report at http://www.trumpetguild.org/2011conference/FullReport.pdf