GREENSBORO, N.C. (July 15, 2024) – Eastern Music Festival presents “Symphonic Triptych,” an extraordinary evening featuring the remarkable talents of violinist Chee-Yun, cellist Amanda Forsyth, EMF faculty guitarist Jason Vieaux, and EMF faculty pianist Marika Bournaki. These renowned artists will join the Eastern Festival Orchestra under the esteemed baton of Gerard Schwarz. The concert will take place at Guilford College’s Dana Auditorium on Saturday, July 20 at 8 PM, as part of the prestigious Joseph M. Bryan Jr. Festival Orchestra Series.
Concert Program Highlights:
The program promises a diverse and captivating musical journey, showcasing:
· Vivaldi’s Guitar Concerto in D major: Experience the lively and innovative spirit of Vivaldi, whose work laid the foundation for the Baroque concerto. Originally composed for lute, this piece is now frequently performed on the guitar, highlighting Vivaldi’s masterful use of the ritornello form.
· Strauss’ Don Juan: A passionate tone poem that marks Strauss’ early transition into modernism, Don Juan is a vivid and dramatic work that continues to captivate audiences with its bold themes and orchestration.
· Hindemith’s Mathis der Maler: This evocative symphony reflects Hindemith’s unique modernist style. The movements—depicting angelic serenades, Christ’s entombment, and a dramatic confrontation followed by a serene meeting—blend dramatic intensity with lyrical beauty.
· Beethoven’s Concerto for Violin, Cello, and Piano in C major: Known as the “Triple Concerto,” this masterpiece showcases Beethoven’s innovative approach to the piano trio, featuring an engaging interplay between the soloists and the orchestra across its three movements.
Spotlight on Guest Artists:
Internationally acclaimed violinist Chee-Yun is celebrated for her captivating performances with leading orchestras such as the San Francisco Symphony and the NHK Symphony. She has collaborated with esteemed conductors including Michael Tilson Thomas and Jaap van Zweden and has premiered contemporary works by Christopher Theofanidis and Kevin Puts. Chee-Yun is also a dedicated educator, conducting master classes globally and serving as Artist-in-Residence at Southern Methodist University.
Juno award-winning cellist Amanda Forsyth is hailed for her intense richness of tone and exceptional musicality. She has performed as a soloist and chamber musician with prestigious ensembles, including the Royal Philharmonic and the Israel Philharmonic. A founding member of the Zukerman Chamber Players and the Zukerman Trio, Forsyth has graced the stages of renowned festivals like Edinburgh and Verbier. She plays a rare 1699 cello by Carlo Giuseppe Testore.
Grammy Award-winning guitarist Jason Vieaux is celebrated for his expressive artistry and virtuosic technique. His performances span classical guitar masterpieces to contemporary works, earning him acclaim as one of the world’s leading guitarists.
Pianist Marika Bournaki is known for her dynamic and engaging performances. She has appeared with major orchestras and in recital series worldwide, captivating audiences with her technical prowess and interpretative depth.
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Eastern Music Festival. Secure your tickets now for a night that promises to be a highlight of the summer season!
For more information about the Eastern Music Festival and its 2024 season lineup, please visit easternmusicfestival.org.