Philip Glass at Society Hall

Last night I saw Philip Glass perform several of his pieces for solo piano. He played Mad Rush (1980) and five of the Metamorphoses (1989). After an intermission, Dennis Russel Davies performed six of the sixteen Etudes Glass composed between 1994 and 1999, showcasing his amazing dexterity. It was apparent that Davies is the more accomplished performer, and it was quite interesting to see how they both approached Glass' works. Davies approached the work with gusto, allowing his face to register emotional reaction to the pieces played, the technical ability of his fingerwork not interrupting a certain performative gusto. Glass, not as strong a player as composer, kept a straight face and bowed head while working his way through his two selections. The selection of pieces was wise. Glass' plain performance style was enhanced by the emotional tenor of the selections he performed. Davies played to his strengths, for in his short works the repetitive phrases were more complicated and shorter in duration, allowing for relatively wild (in comparison to Glass) fingerwork that wowed the audience. The man in front of me, obviously familiar with the Etudes, let out a "Yeah!" as Davies hit the last notes of the sixth piece. It was a stirring introduction to the live performance of Glass' works, and experienced for the meager sum of $10. Can't beat that.Update: I was glad to read that the New York Times critic who reviewed the concert had almost exactly the same response as I did. It kind of validates my critical response.. sort of! If you believe in that kind of thing! Here's a link to his review.