Yoon-Mi Lim at Galloway United Methodist Church, April 17, 2008
Lim opened the recital with Liszt's daunting Prelude and Fugue on
B-A-C-H, which she played with authority. This episodic piece has many
opportunities for dynamic contrasts, and Lim seemed to exploit every one,
in some cases alternating between fff and ppp. She next
played Jehan Alain's Deuxième Fantaisie, an improvisatory piece, again
with imaginative registration. Next, Edwin Lemare's transcription for organ of
Elgar's Military March No. 1 ("Pomp and Circumstance") was given a lively
interpretation (it is only in the trio section one finds the familiar march
theme) that made this selection one of my favorites.
J.S. Bach's Prelude and Fugue in e minor (BWV 548, the "Wedge") followed,
but the fugue seemed a bit lackluster, although it was played accurately
and at a good tempo. The most obvious problem appeared to be the weak pedal
registration. The pedal line could be heard, but remained subordinate
through out the fugue. Lim then played Franck's Chorale No. 1 in E major,
with great feeling and appropriate registration. She closed the recital
with Vierne's Toccata from 24 Pièces de Fantasie giving it a
dazzling performance which brought the house down. All in all, a very
satisfying program.
- Glenn A. Gentry