Dubravka Tomsic might be a difficult name to spell and pronounce, but her piano virtuosity will transcend alphabetical barriers. On Sunday, February 11th, Hill Auditorium will resonate with the works of J.S. Bach, Liszt and Prokofiev.
- Paul Wong
- Concert pianist Dubravka Tomsic.<br><br>Courtesy of Susan Wilson
A native of Slovenia, Tomsic has studied at the Ljubljana Academy of Music. In 1954, Tomsic played her first recital at the age of 14 at Carnegie Hall. Arthur Rubinstein, a member of that audience, immediately took her on as a student for the next two years. Following that mentorship, Tomsic returned to her native land. Because of the international political situation, Tomsic did not travel for the next 30 years. During that time, she taught at the local music conservatory, raised a child, and enjoyed regional success on piano. She returned in triumph to the United States in 1989, where she performed in the Newport, Rhode Island Music Festival.
Tomsic presents herself in paradoxical ways. Her piano technique is brilliant she is in full control of the material, and sensitive to the inner structure of the music. Yet, she can convey an almost uninvolved presence in her facial and body gestures.
Her understanding of the repertoire is enhanced by her willingness to allow the music to become the centerpiece of the concert. The sheer minimalism of Tomsic”s performance lies in her total devotion to the music.
For Sunday”s concert, Tomsic will open with the “Prelude and Fugue in D Major,” by J.S. Bach. Three Liszt pieces will also be featured, including “St. Francis of Assisi: Sermon to the Birds.” She will conclude her concert with Liszt”s “Mephisto Waltz.” This will be Tomsic”s first appearance in Hill Auditorium. Although 30 years have elapsed for this artist”s recognition, Dubravka Tomsic will soon take her place as a foremost concert pianist.