Cristina Ballatori, director of the UW-Whitewater flute choir, performed a concert for the public at Light Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 28, with guest pianist, Kevin Chance. The duo typically perform with each other often; however, due to the pandemic, this was their first opportunity to play in front of a live audience. To say that they lived up to everyones expectations would be an understatement as they exceeded them greatly. Playing pieces such as, “All the Words to All the Songs” and “Introduction and Variations, Opus 160” the audience was left in astonishment at the talent and flawlessness of the performance.

The most fascinating song of the night, “Introduction and Variations, Opus 160” by Franz Schubert on Trockne Blumen from Die Schöne Müllerin, was a dynamic trip for the audience as they were guided through various emotions which shifted with every tone as expressed by momentary pauses. Transitioning from a soft sound similar to an early spring morning to harsh staccatos which bit like the crisp air in fall, the piece was a full range experience for the audience.

“Introduction and Variations, Opus 160” is one of the masterpieces of the flute repertoire and is a journey that has a heroic ending,” said Chance.

Excited to be back together, the duo played as one, complimenting each other throughout the entire performance. This could especially be seen in the song, “All the Words to All the Songs” by Dan Welcher, as Ballatori and Chance showed the audience their friendship and connection. Throughout the entirety of the piece, there was not a moment when the two were not playing as a team, building each other up through runs which seemed everlasting, making it that much more powerful.

“We have been friends for twenty years and this is our first performance back together since the pandemic began,” said Ballatori.