Vladislav Lavrik

TORAN RECORDS presents four exceptional tracks captured during the joint recital of Vladislav Lavrik and Pam Gordon in Alabama. Recorded in 2008 within the marvelous acoustics of Moody Hall at the University of Alabama, this release showcases an all-Russian program performed by trumpeter Lavrik alongside pianist Gordon.

The album features works by Alexander Gedike, Alexander Arutiunian, Vladimir Peskin, and Anton Arensky, offering a vivid portrait of Russian musical heritage through masterful performance and intimate chamber collaboration.

Comments by Vladislav Lavrik:

Dear Friends, My friendship with Chris, who is himself an accomplished trumpeter, started from that concert some 14 years ago. To tell the truth, I fell in love with the entire Gordon family. Chris, Pam, and their two beautiful and talented daughters Anna and Tori Gordon have been a part of my life since then. I was truly wrapped in the warm embrace of this rare family. Every moment we were together was a lesson to me, a lesson in humanistic values, warm hospitality, humor, and love. We made music together and our friendship and mutual respect grew. As Americans say, we kept in touch. We shared our hopes and dreams, our good times, our bad times.

Now, with this recording coming out worldwide, a flood of memories come to me from our days together and our communications when we were apart. Pam was fascinated by the depth and soulfulness of Russian music. We had engrossing rehearsals. She worked tirelessly to master every aspect of our recital program. When another pianist in a different city on my tour was unable to perform at the last minute, Pam drove through the night, bringing her piano scores and a bottle of vodka, confident we would celebrate another successful performance together and of course I was late for my plane next morning. In the Gordon home, Pam prepared wonderful dinners for me. Guests and the entire family gathered around her beautiful table, everyone smiling and happy with life. Then, after a red velvet cake, music.

Destiny brought the Gordon family many challenges. In 2011, Anna died from leukemia. In 2018, Pam died from ovarian cancer. Somehow, through these tragic illnesses, Chris and Tori grew stronger. Their example, based on overflowing love, allows us to keep Anna and Pam Guthrie Gordon in our hearts forever.

The photo image for this release was made by Anna Gordon straight after that 2008 recital.

My heartfelt thanks go to Chris Gordon, who made this release happen. And I extend special thanks to Mary Ann Allin, who organized my 2008 American solo tour and connected me with this amazing family. During every difficult time, music has the power to bring us peace and joy.

2022 Toran Enterprises, LLC Release

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