On Aug. 22 I had a chance to hear a wonderful young musician as part of the 12th annual Young Alaskan Artist Award Recitals sponsored by Anchorage Festival of Music. Cellist Patrick Hopkins of Fairbanks performed with remarkable poise, technical precision and emotional depth in a program that included music by Haydn, Schubert, Prokofiev and Chopin. In addition two other works were added to the program.

It is inspiring to hear this high level of musicianship in such a young player. Hopkins is now attending Julliard School and already has an impressive resume of accomplishments and performances. Indeed his most recent award is as the winner of the Young Alaskan Artist Award, which one of the prizes was the recital on Sunday.

As explained during the recital by AFM's Artistic Director Juliana Osinchuk, this award was started with a phone call from Sen. Ted Stevens to Osinchuk. Stevens was well known as a supporter of music for the state and had taken much interest in the award since its inception. He was to attend the recital last Sunday. Because of this, the recital was dedicated to him, and a deeply felt performance of Massenet's "Meditation from Thaïs" was added to the performance in his memory.

Hopkins has a mature tone that conveys the emotion and meaning of the music. His intonation and rhythm are impeccable, and his phrasing is mature beyond his years. While the whole recital was enjoyable, the Prokofiev Sonata for Cello and Piano, Op. 119 particularly intrigued me. With Osinchuk's fine and sensitive accompaniment, Hopkins made a strong case for this work that is full of lyricism and rhythmic fire.

The concert ended with an early work of Chopin -- his "Polonaise Brillante," Op. 3. Brilliant best describes the performance that was full of pyrotechnics for both the cellist and pianist, and caused the audience to rise and give a well-deserved standing ovation. An encore of Squire's "Tarantella" rounded out a thoroughly satisfying evening. Keep your attention on this young player. His abilities are a testament to Alaska's artistic growth and his own immense talent.

-- Linn Weeda, Anchorage

Submit reviews of local performances for "You Be the Critic" consideration to mdunham@adn.com.