Internationally renowned pianist Cristina Ortiz performed a recital at St Thomas’s Church, Winchelsea, on Saturday, December 17, in memory of local musician Thomas Harris
Thomas, an extremely promising young pianist, died at the age of 22. His funeral was held at the church, where he had often played, in January 2016.
Arranged by Judy Harris and supported by Winchelsea Arts for the very day that Thomas had been due to play there, the recital in his memory was given to a packed church by Brazilian virtuoso Miss Ortiz, who was his friend and mentor.
Beginning with two beautifully characterised Schubert impromptus and continuing with some fascinating preludes by the under-rated British composer York Bowen, Ortiz concluded with three emotionally intense intermezzi by Brahms and a truly memorable Chopin Barcarolle.
This was a most affecting occasion, and made more so by two encores, the first a poignant Prayer from Brazil and the second a reassertion by Ortiz of joy and hope, with Debussy’s L’Isle Joyeuse. All present found themselves deeply moved by this wholly fitting tribute to a gifted young man who, tragically, can no longer fulfil his great potential.
Photo image: CD sleeve