By Rhea Mursalin
In this interpretation of Francis Poulenc’s Sonata for Flute and Piano, Isabella Cruz-Vespa (flute) and Hanqi Liu (piano) deliver a performance that transcends physical distance. Despite performing from separate locations, their synchronicity remains seamless throughout, showcasing both technical precision and emotional depth.
This musical experience is deeply inspired, capturing Poulenc’s rich harmonies with elegance and poise. Liu’s piano accompaniment provides a steady, nuanced foundation without ever overshadowing the flute’s lyrical expressiveness. The result is a resonant and captivating rendition of the Cantilena (Assez Lent) movement—graceful, bittersweet, and deeply moving.
Presented by the Bard College Conservatory of Music, this performance honors one of the most beloved works in the 20th-century flute repertoire. A must-watch for music lovers—classical or otherwise.
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5 out of 5 stars)
Rhea Mursalin is a recent graduate from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), where she earned a B.A. in Communications.
