Aseem Misra Performs On Archlute
Oberlin first-year guitar major, Aseem Misra, had his inaugural performance experience on the archlute this week . He’d been lucky enough to get a small amount of experience while still in high school on the theorbo (he was doing pre-college work at the University of North Texas), but the archlute was new to him. Oberlin is very lucky to have an impressive collection of early instruments for students to borrow and use while enrolled (see Oberlin’s Plucked Instrument Collection). But of course, not every student takes advantage of them. Our Historical Performance department is always happy to have one of my students join in on these critically important instruments in their ensembles, and it seems Aseem may have found himself in this role! This first outing was with the Oberlin Baroque Orchestra. (See also Collin Stern Goes Baroque and Nik Divall Plays Theorbo)
Aseem Misra with Oberlin Baroque Orchestra
The other students in the ensemble are playing various sizes of violas da gamba and baroque violins, and are equally new to the project. The ensemble’s directors, Edwin Huizinga and Rebecca Landell, have an infectiously enthusiastic approach, combined with a light touch which helps the students comfortably navigate what is for many, not just a new style, but a new instrument (and in the case of the archlute, a new notation). Just the same, they sounded glorious.
They played in Warner Concert Hall, our large space, and the concert was well-attended. Aseem only played on the opening number, a Ciacona by Pezel (program at the end of the post). And, while it was hard to hear him, there was the occasional sound of the plucked strings cutting through. I was delighted, though, to see him sitting center stage with his Baroque instrument signifier, that long-necked lute. They performed this work without conductor, a common practice at the time.
Aseem Misra on stage in Warner Concert Hall
I was, unfortunately, unable to remain for the rest of the performance, but the music looked terrific. Aseem will play another piece this semester with a smaller ensemble, and then next semester, he will play continuo on theorbo in a Monteverdi opera. All this, in addition to his classical guitar studies!
Many thanks to Edwin and Rebecca for their dedication to bringing early music to the students and staging such impressive programs with them. And of course, for this wonderful opportunity for the guitarists!
