Faculty Recital Showcases Talented Department

After flowing down a waterfall of steps, I sat in anticipation. The Piedmont Virginia Community College Facility Music Recital was about to begin on the V. Earl Dickinson Building’s  main stage. Previously postponed due to inclement weather, it was held March 29, a sunny Sunday afternoon.

Marco Escobar, PVCC’s violin, viola and cello instructor,  was the first to appear on stage. He played his violin with finesse, grace and urgency. His style took the listener to the brink of ecstasy and then gently back to reality.

Dr. Arnold Popkin, a retired dentist who performs regularly in the area, provided piano accompaniment on the glistening black Baby Grand piano.

Ruth Ann Bishop, voice and piano professor at PVCC, had four vocal selections, which were about different types of love. She was accompanied by Gina Tuck, guest performer, who exuded confidence.

David Wilson is PVCC’s saxophone, clarinet and flute instructor. I felt quiet contentment as the first notes emanated from his sax. His second selection  had our heads bobbing in time. Dr. Kay Bethea, Professor of Theater and Music at PVCC, played the piano with fluid movement and apparent joy which projected nicely through her chosen melodies.

Melody Z. Day, one of two voice instructors at PVCC, sang with her entire body. She allows the character she portrays to take over her expressive face, enriching her performance. Even though most of her selections were not in English, she left little doubt of the story she told. Gina Tuck’s piano accompaniment formed a great duet with Day’s voice.

We were then treated to Dr. Bethea and Bishop once again, who played “four-handed” pieces, sitting side-by-side at the same piano. They certainly increased the excitement.

The recital closed with a trio consisting of Tuck at the piano, Bishop finally unleashing her voice and belting out, “Love is where you Find it” along with Day’s clear voice and expressive face.

This was a great hour and half spent enjoying the talents some of our PVCC faculty possess.