ENTERTAINMENT NOTES: Violinist, pianist to perform concert at NLR church

Sep 21, 2024 at 1:00 PM

Exploring the Virtuosic Violin: A Captivating Musical Journey

In the heart of North Little Rock, a captivating musical event is set to unfold, as violinist Kiril Laskarov and pianist Carl Anthony team up for a "Festival of the Senses" program titled "The Virtuosic Violin." This performance promises to transport audiences on a mesmerizing journey through the works of renowned composers, showcasing the virtuosity and artistry of these talented musicians.

Unlock the Virtuosity of the Violin

Masterful Collaborations: Laskarov and Anthony's "The Virtuosic Violin"

The upcoming concert at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in North Little Rock promises to be a captivating exploration of the violin's virtuosic potential. Violinist Kiril Laskarov and pianist Carl Anthony have joined forces to present a program that celebrates the instrument's expressive range and technical brilliance. The duo will perform the Violin Sonata No. 18 in G major, K. 301, by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, as well as the Violin Concerto No. 3 by Camille Saint-Saëns, two masterpieces that showcase the violin's versatility and the artists' exceptional musicianship.Laskarov, a renowned virtuoso, and Anthony, a skilled pianist, have a long-standing history of collaboration, having performed together in various settings. Their shared passion for classical music and their commitment to delivering exceptional performances have earned them a reputation as a formidable duo, capable of captivating audiences with their technical prowess and emotional depth.

Immersing Audiences in the "Festival of the Senses"

The "Festival of the Senses" program, of which "The Virtuosic Violin" is a part, is designed to engage the audience on multiple levels. Beyond the aural experience of the music, the event aims to stimulate the senses through various elements, creating a truly immersive and memorable experience for attendees.The concert at St. Luke's Episcopal Church will not only feature the virtuosic performances of Laskarov and Anthony but will also include a meet-the-performers reception in the church's Parish Hall following the performance. This interactive component allows audience members to engage directly with the artists, fostering a deeper connection and appreciation for the music and the performers.

Accessibility and Community Engagement

One of the standout features of this event is its commitment to accessibility and community engagement. The concert is free and open to the public, making it an inclusive and welcoming experience for music lovers of all backgrounds. This accessibility aligns with the event's mission to bring the transformative power of classical music to a diverse audience, inspiring and enriching the lives of the local community.By offering this free concert, the organizers of the "Festival of the Senses" program demonstrate their dedication to making high-quality classical music accessible to all, regardless of financial means or prior exposure to the art form. This inclusive approach reflects a deeper understanding of the role that the arts can play in fostering community engagement and cultural enrichment.

Percussion Duo Showcase: Justin and Cassie Bunting's "Blue Line Duo"

Alongside the virtuosic violin performance, the "Festival of the Senses" program also features a captivating percussion showcase by the "Blue Line Duo." Comprised of University of Arkansas at Little Rock faculty member Justin Bunting and musician Cassie Bunting, this dynamic duo will present a unique and engaging percussion performance in the Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall.The "Blue Line Duo" performance promises to be a mesmerizing exploration of the rhythmic and tonal possibilities of percussion instruments. Justin and Cassie Bunting, known for their innovative and boundary-pushing approach to percussion, will undoubtedly captivate the audience with their technical mastery and artistic expression.

Soprano Camille Ortiz Celebrates Hispanic Heritage

Rounding out the diverse offerings of the "Festival of the Senses" program is a recital by soprano Camille Ortiz, who will showcase a repertoire of Spanish music by composers from Venezuela, Chile, Peru, Argentina, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. This performance, held at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, coincides with the celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, providing a platform to honor and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of these Latin American countries.Ortiz, an assistant professor of voice at the University of Oregon, brings her exceptional vocal talents and deep understanding of the Spanish musical tradition to this recital. Accompanied by UALR faculty members Alison Hsieh and Qianyu Chen on piano, Ortiz's performance promises to be a captivating exploration of the diverse and vibrant musical landscapes of Latin America.