JUSTIN SEIDEL
Special to The Leader
SUNY Fredonia is known for its artistic excellence.
Many people think of the performers as students that are trying to open their talents to the public.
However, faculty members get the chance to do so as well.
On Sept. 23, Jessica Tong, Isabel Ong and I-fei Chen will perform two pieces that are similar to Schumann-esque short character pieces with a Spanish touch at the Rosch Recital Hall in Mason Hall.
The repertoire of the recital will be unique compared to others, as it features a collection of two books of short character pieces by relatively unknown composer Paul Juon.
What really separates this concert from other events is the fact that these artists barely get a chance to rehearse as a group — a common phenomenon in professional show business.
“Ideally, you want to prepare for a recital months in advance, but that luxury is rarely the case in the professional world,” said Tong, assistant professor of violin and artistic advisor and director.
Many times, people will only watch a show if it is being performed by a particular group. This notion adds another factor of intrigue to the Faculty Recital on Sept. 23, as it will be the first time where Jessica Tong, Isabel Ong and I-fei Chen will perform together as a group.
Although it will be their first time performing in a faculty recital, do not lower your expectations — Jessica Tong has performed violin and piano acts with both Isabel Ong and I-fei Chen.
One of the musicians’ reasons behind performing at the recital is to provide the community with entertainment, showing that the group will put a lot of effort into satisfying the crowd.
According to Tong, “It’s always a wonderful experience to play with colleagues you admire, and for a community that is as enthusiastic and supportive as the one we have here at Fredonia.”
The event will be free for everyone to attend, including community members.