Senior Recital Transports Skidmore Audience

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Last Friday evening, Skidmore’s Arthur Zankel Music Center was transported to another world as Ellie Ushakov performed her senior recital. The atmosphere for the night was warm and inviting, a beautiful reflection of the performance Ushakov gave. 

Her performance was a combination of solo and group songs, ranging from well-known works to some of her own compositions and songs. Her skill on the guitar produced soft and relaxing sounds that the crowd enjoyed immensely, followed closely by a duet she performed with her teacher, John Kirk, on the mandolin.

Kirk could be seen nodding and swaying along as he played, looking at Ushakov proudly as the crowd erupted into cheers at the closing of their duet. Ushakov was engaging and funny, capturing the crowd’s attention. 

Ushakov’s songwriting was highlighted when she performed multiple original works. Her lyricism was creative and entertaining, with many of her lyrics eliciting a few laughs from the crowd. One of her songs required the crowd to sing the refrain with her.

Ushakov asked musicians from the crowd to join her on stage for her encore, which was an Irish song that transported the audience into an old tavern with an uplifting and jovial tune. 

The night was a wonderful illustration of her range. The music hall was transformed into a brand-new place with each song. The audience was not shy to show their appreciation of her talent as they cheered and hollered between tunes. Her effect on the crowd was evident as she received a standing ovation at the closing of her last song.