Turlock, California
April 26, 2013
Dan Franklin Smith played a fantastic piano performance on April 8, 2013 in Turlock, California. It was thrilling to hear all of the sounds he produced on the recently purchased German Steinway concert grand. We had not yet enjoyed the piano as a solo instrument in our concert series so those of us who looked forward to a super evening were very pleased.
It was apparent he enjoyed both the music and the instrument! The program was not composed of the typical piano recital numbers i.e., Bach, Beethoven and Chopin, etc. Instead he offered a stimulating group of selections from Spain, Portugal, and South American composers. Even though I have enjoyed studying some of these musicians, I found many new friends and went home after the concert motivated to practice more literature of this type. It was fun to reflect on my studies and to hear many, new to me, offerings.
Dan Smith’s mastery of the instrument was evident. The tonal qualities were fantastic! The pianissimos were stunning! And so were the passages which required bravura fortissimos!
It was, in sum, an evening to remember and to be recommended to other concert associations.
Dr. Wayne Kidwell
Turlock Concert Association