Stephen Framil and Marieta del Mar

Background

Stephen Framil - cello
The BMS is delighted to welcome the return of American cellist, Stephen Framil. Those who heard him on his last visit in 2001 will remember his fine performance of the J. S. Bach cello suites. His interpretation of these exquisite works for unaccompanied cello was spe|I·binding.
Dr Stephen Framil (Indiana University; DM) has developed a distinguished international reputation and is in much demand throughout Asia, Europe and the USA. He has performed in many of the wor|d’s major concert halls including the Carnegie Weill and Avery Fisher Halls (New York) and the Hong Kong City Hall. He has appeared as soloist with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra, Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra (Hungary), Vo|gograd Philharmonic Orchestra (Russia), Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, and Hanoi Philharmonic Orchestra.
As well as achieving fame as a solo performer, Stephen is also well known as an international teacher of cello and chamber music. He has given master classes at the Shanghai Conservatory, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory, Singapore. University of Illinois, Hong Kong University, Zaporoahye Conservatory (Ukraine), and the Silliman University (Philippines).
His recordings include the complete J. S. Bach Suites for Solo Cello, as well as the works for solo cello by Zoltan Kodaly and Gaspar Cassado. In 2004 he won hrst prize in the Contemporary Record Society Competition for Performing Artists. In April 2006 he recorded the two Haydn Cello Concertos with Paul Freeman and the Czech National Symphony Orchestra (Centaur Records).
"There are no words to describe the dazzling technique and bravura of American cellist Stephen Framil, as he played Dvorak’s Cello Concerto. His tone, warm and glowing, is positively brilliant. Suffice it to say he is the very best cellist I have ever heard perform - and l have heard many" (The Manila Bulletin}.
Marieta Del Mar - piano
For this BMS recital, Stephen will be accompanied by local pianist lvlarieta Del Mar. Marleta holds a Bachelor Degree in Music (piano) and a BMus in Education with a minor in voice and flute. She is much in demand as an experienced and sensitive accompanist.
Marieta has performed at the Cultural Centre ofthe Philippines for the ABRSM and Royal Academy of Dance (ballet) exams. She also plays regularly for Radio Television Brunei and the Serunai Singers Choir. She is currently teaching secondary music at the International School Berakas. The recital programme includes J.S. Bach - Suite No. 1 in G for solo cello, Franz Schubert - Sonata in A minor and Astor Pfazzola - Le Grand Tango.