Jan. 25 Performers (l to r) G. Churchill, E. MacDougall and P. Nance

LOCAL MUSICIANS SHINE IN MTAC BENEFIT CONCERT

After a fire-related postponement of four months, the Sonoma County Chapter of the Music Teachers Association of California Jan. 25 gave their annual scholarship benefit in a charming Sebastopol home.

Showcasing local musicians in an intimate setting with two pianos, the first half highlights included violinist Richard Heinberg and pianist Sonia Tubridy in two movements from Bach’s E Major Sonata (No. 3, BWV 1016), followed by a suave Tango, written by Mr. Heinberg’s composer friend Ralph Kessler.

Exceptionally tasty food and drink occupied a long intermission, and the second half began with a slow and moving performance of the Andante from Mendelssohn’s C Minor Trio, Op. 66. Performers were pianist Nicki Bell, cellist Brian Lloyd and Mr. Heinberg. Ukiah pianist Elizabeth MacDougall concluded the afternoon with artful selections from Schumann’s Op. 2 Papillons.

Additional musicians performing included trumpeter Philip Beard and pianists Carol Schindler, Peggy Nance, Mary Beard and Gwen Churchill.