Manchester University
Oak Leaves

September 21, 2018


'Duo No. 2' Features Modern, Postmodern Compositions


Victoria Heishman


The Wine Recital Hall filled with music played by Elizabeth Smith, violinist, and Robert Lynn, cellist, on Sunday, Sept. 16, at 3 p.m.

Focusing on modern and postmodern compositions, the performance started with “Duo No. 2,” composed by Bohuslav Martinů, which consisted of Allegretto, Adagio and Poco adagio. The second performance was “Theme and Variation for Violin and Cello,” composed by Marlene Schlieffen (1961). This was a slightly longer list, being made up of Theme, Marcato, Slowly, Fast, Gigue, Chorale and Fugue, March and Finale.

Upon finishing, Lynn stood and gave a small announcement that filled the crowd with laughter. He explained how 20th century music is filled with a dissonance that was heavy within the previous songs, but would be less noticeable in the coming songs. 

The collection following his announcement and a short break was “Mikautadze Tryptich” (2018) which consisted of “Company,” “David and Elizabeth” and “The Vibe,” composed by Debra Lynn. 

The final two performances were “Four Miniatures for Violin and Cello” (2010), a series composed by Tim Reed. This collection is one that they’ve played in the past, and play rarely due to the difficulty of it. 

Finally, the concert was wrapped up by “The Graham Vibe” (2018) composed by Debra Lynn. Upon the end of the song the crowd rose in applause.

During 2007, Elizabeth Smith and her husband Tim moved to Indiana. She serves as concertmaster of the Manchester Symphony Orchestra and teaches applied violin and viola, and string ensembles, as listed on the event program.

Dr. Robert Lynn teaches Music History, as well as classes in World music, American Music and Introduction to Music. Dr. Lynn also teaches music fundamentals and aural skills, as well as applied study in cello and low brass.