Metchosin’s music lovers are in for a treat.
The Iskra Violin and Guitar Duo, featuring Douglas Hensley on guitar and Tatiana Kostour on violin, partner to perform wide-ranging melodies from the 1800s to the late 20th century interwoven with original tunes for Metchosin Community Association’s first fall concert of 2014.
“As performers it is always great to be invited to perform anywhere. A lot of my energy is spent on teaching… so it’s great to have people interested in seeing your ensemble perform,” said Hensley. “(Metchosin Community Hall) is always really well received and attended. It’s great to see it full of appreciative audiences, that is always very enjoyable.”
Hensley, a guitarist of 40 years who got his musical start when his roommate gave him a guitar after high school, said the partnership of more than a year has proven to be a natural musical fit with Colwood’s Ukrainian violinist Kostour.
“Tatiana is a very warm, dynamic performer. She loves playing music and it’s great to see her reach out to the audience in the way she plays music,” Hensley said. “She really gives the audience something substantial and it’s great to be a part of that energy.”
Having performed recently in Oak Bay, Hensley, who is also a faculty member at the Victoria Conservatory of Music, said the duo is looking forward to bringing a variety of songs to Metchosin, from the lush harmonies and varied use of instrumental compositions from Italian composer Niccolò Paganini to the striking melodies and harmonies from Austria’s Ferdinand Rebay.
“It’s always interesting to explore music from a particular vantage point finding music for a violinist and guitar,” Hensley said.
“Music is great stuff. There is so much diversity and when I’m not working on this kind of art music program, I love (performing). I can’t imagine any better way to spend a life.”
The duo take the stage Sunday, Oct. 19 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $15, or $5 for students or children and available at the Metchosin Community Association at 4430 Happy Valley Rd.
alim@goldstreamgazette.com