In the 43rd of a series of articles, David Bird discusses the work of Redbridge Music Society and introduces violinist Abigail Dance and pianist David Silkoff, who will be performing in Wanstead this month
Two essential aims of Redbridge Music Society are to bring high-quality live recitals to Redbridge and to champion musicians who live or work near or within the borough. This month, at Wanstead Library, violinist Abigail Dance and local pianist David Silkoff will perform violin sonatas by Mozart and Beethoven (the optimistic Spring Sonata), some well-known miniatures by Elgar, Kreisler and Massenet and some popular film music.
London-based Abigail Dance is a versatile and dedicated performer of the violin and viola. She enjoys an eclectic career spanning classical, jazz and popular music and has given many chamber music recitals, concerto performances and workshops in the UK, Europe and beyond. Recent and upcoming performances include those at Kings Place, Royal Albert Hall, Southbank Centre, St John’s Smith Square and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club. Her performances have been described as “passionate, emotional and inspiring” and have led to a number of awards.
Besides teaching in London schools, Abigail also works with educational charities using music as a tool for social mobility, community cohesion and for promoting health and wellbeing. In 2021, she was invited to participate in the Global Leaders Programme comprising the world’s most promising music leaders and change-makers in the arts; her group was awarded the prize for the most impactful social programme.
David Silkoff studied piano with Lina Collins, a pupil of Mathilde Verne, a former pupil of Clara Schumann. He studied at the Royal College of Music under concert pianists Kendall Taylor and Cyril Smith, during which time he won a Martin Scholarship for those with exceptional musical talent. Later, he studied at the Royal Academy of Music where he won the Lloyd Hartley prize. His Wigmore Hall debut in 1975 was highly praised for his glowing technique and sensitive playing, and Benjamin Britten, on hearing David play Beethoven’s third piano concerto, described his playing as “electrifying.” David has performed at many London concert venues, including the Southbank Centre, and has performed as a soloist and accompanist across Europe.
David has a very wide repertoire, ranging from baroque to contemporary classical and popular music. He entertains for corporate events and has played at many top London venues, including the Ritz Hotel. He is highly sought after as a chamber accompanist and for auditions and piano examinations. He also pursues a busy teaching career.
Please do come along and join us for this very special evening of music-making!
The recital will take place at Wanstead Library on 18 February from 8pm (tickets on the door; visitors £12: members £9). Call 07380 606 767. Redbridge Music Society is affiliated to Making Music.
