Thursday, December 22, 2011
Virginia Opera meets challenge
Virginia Opera has raised nearly $600,000 to match and surpass the goal of a $500,000 challenge grant made by an anonymous donor last January, adding more than $1 million to the company’s revenue.
The additional funds will be used for some 300 education and outreach programs statewide, as well as supporting the company’s four mainstage productions in 2012 and its Emerging Artists troupe.
Nearly 600 individual, corporate and foundation donors contributed to meet the challenge grant, said Russell P. Allen, Virginia Opera’s CEO and president.
The additional funds will be used for some 300 education and outreach programs statewide, as well as supporting the company’s four mainstage productions in 2012 and its Emerging Artists troupe.
Nearly 600 individual, corporate and foundation donors contributed to meet the challenge grant, said Russell P. Allen, Virginia Opera’s CEO and president.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Review: Stile Antico
Dec. 14, University of Richmond
When Oscar Wilde wrote that life imitates art, he coined a clever aphorism but demonstrated his ignorance of English history – specifically, religious history under the Tudor monarchs. Listening to the British vocal ensemble Stile Antico perform liturgical music of Thomas Tallis, William Byrd and their contemporaries, one could easily forget that Christianity in 16th-century Britain was a death struggle between Catholics and Protestants, accompanied by epithets, burnings, beheadings and general mayhem.
Stile Antico’s Advent-Christmas program, “Puer natus est” (“A son is born”), centered on Tallis’ unfinished Mass for seven parts by that name; sections of the Mass were interspersed with Byrd’s four propers for the fourth Sunday of Advent.
This was audience-friendly, if not quite fair to Tallis. His Mass, introduced in 1554, was written in the
plainchant-rooted “old” style, circumscribed in both pacing (adagio to andante and back) and expressive range (reverential and awed). An uninterrupted performance of the piece would have been sublime, but also might have sent listeners into a blissful stupor.
Byrd’s works, later in vintage and more musically concentrated and adventurous, added needed animation and variety. Robert White’s Magnificat and John Sheppard’s “Verbum caro,” which ended the two halves of the program, added still more harmonic adventure and playful joyousness to the proceedings.
Stile Antico sings in a style that is historically informed, yet not angelically denatured, as so many early music vocal groups tend to sound. This group’s 13 voices blend beautifully, but retain their individual characters – especially the bass voices, with their hint of grit – and audibly feed off one another’s energy and expressiveness.
In this performance, the singers, singly and collectively, pushed the expressive limits of the Tallis Mass, treated Byrd’s vocal weavings with spontaneity, and positively reveled in the intricacies and surprising eccentricities of the White and Sheppard works.
When Oscar Wilde wrote that life imitates art, he coined a clever aphorism but demonstrated his ignorance of English history – specifically, religious history under the Tudor monarchs. Listening to the British vocal ensemble Stile Antico perform liturgical music of Thomas Tallis, William Byrd and their contemporaries, one could easily forget that Christianity in 16th-century Britain was a death struggle between Catholics and Protestants, accompanied by epithets, burnings, beheadings and general mayhem.
Stile Antico’s Advent-Christmas program, “Puer natus est” (“A son is born”), centered on Tallis’ unfinished Mass for seven parts by that name; sections of the Mass were interspersed with Byrd’s four propers for the fourth Sunday of Advent.
This was audience-friendly, if not quite fair to Tallis. His Mass, introduced in 1554, was written in the
plainchant-rooted “old” style, circumscribed in both pacing (adagio to andante and back) and expressive range (reverential and awed). An uninterrupted performance of the piece would have been sublime, but also might have sent listeners into a blissful stupor.
Byrd’s works, later in vintage and more musically concentrated and adventurous, added needed animation and variety. Robert White’s Magnificat and John Sheppard’s “Verbum caro,” which ended the two halves of the program, added still more harmonic adventure and playful joyousness to the proceedings.
Stile Antico sings in a style that is historically informed, yet not angelically denatured, as so many early music vocal groups tend to sound. This group’s 13 voices blend beautifully, but retain their individual characters – especially the bass voices, with their hint of grit – and audibly feed off one another’s energy and expressiveness.
In this performance, the singers, singly and collectively, pushed the expressive limits of the Tallis Mass, treated Byrd’s vocal weavings with spontaneity, and positively reveled in the intricacies and surprising eccentricities of the White and Sheppard works.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Review: Richmond Symphony
Erin R. Freeman conducting
Dec. 10, Richmond CenterStage
No two performances of any piece of music are exactly the same, but some works are more changeable than others. Handel’s “Messiah” is a prime example: Tempos, accents,
ornamentation of melody lines, even solo voice registers, are all subject to change – and have been ever since Handel’s day.
This year’s Richmond Symphony “Messiah,” led by Erin R. Freeman, the orchestra’s associate conductor and director of the Richmond Symphony Chorus, was more upbeat than many past performances. Freeman opted for brisk, dance-like tempos in many of the work’s most familiar airs and choruses, notably “Hallelujah” and “O thou that tellest good tidings to Zion.”
The Symphony Chorus responded with alert, finely articulated singing that didn’t stint on the work’s big choral exclamations but often sounded more intimate and expressively nuanced than this large ensemble generally does.
The solo quartet – soprano Michelle Areyzaga, countertenor José Lemos, tenor William Ferguson and bass-baritone Matthew Burns – varied in tonal and expressive character. Lemos was audibly more conversant in baroque ornamentation and expressive affectus than his colleagues, and that expertise yielded dividends in several alto numbers, notably “He was despised.”
Most of the solo numbers in this performance, however, were melodically straightforward and conversational or contemplative. Ferguson’s interaction with the chorus in the sequence beginning with “All they that see him laugh him to scorn” added a nice touch of theatricality.
The orchestra’s chamber-scale forces, the strings playing with historically informed low vibrato, maintained good balance with soloists and chorus, at least from my vantage. (I sat in a center-orchestra seat, not my usual perch in the balcony.)
Trumpeter Rolla Durham played “The trumpet shall sound” with his accustomed brilliance, and concertmaster Diana Cohen and principal second violinist Ellen Cockerham made fine work of their cameo duet in the “Amen” chorus.
Dec. 10, Richmond CenterStage
No two performances of any piece of music are exactly the same, but some works are more changeable than others. Handel’s “Messiah” is a prime example: Tempos, accents,
ornamentation of melody lines, even solo voice registers, are all subject to change – and have been ever since Handel’s day.This year’s Richmond Symphony “Messiah,” led by Erin R. Freeman, the orchestra’s associate conductor and director of the Richmond Symphony Chorus, was more upbeat than many past performances. Freeman opted for brisk, dance-like tempos in many of the work’s most familiar airs and choruses, notably “Hallelujah” and “O thou that tellest good tidings to Zion.”
The Symphony Chorus responded with alert, finely articulated singing that didn’t stint on the work’s big choral exclamations but often sounded more intimate and expressively nuanced than this large ensemble generally does.
The solo quartet – soprano Michelle Areyzaga, countertenor José Lemos, tenor William Ferguson and bass-baritone Matthew Burns – varied in tonal and expressive character. Lemos was audibly more conversant in baroque ornamentation and expressive affectus than his colleagues, and that expertise yielded dividends in several alto numbers, notably “He was despised.”
Most of the solo numbers in this performance, however, were melodically straightforward and conversational or contemplative. Ferguson’s interaction with the chorus in the sequence beginning with “All they that see him laugh him to scorn” added a nice touch of theatricality.
The orchestra’s chamber-scale forces, the strings playing with historically informed low vibrato, maintained good balance with soloists and chorus, at least from my vantage. (I sat in a center-orchestra seat, not my usual perch in the balcony.)
Trumpeter Rolla Durham played “The trumpet shall sound” with his accustomed brilliance, and concertmaster Diana Cohen and principal second violinist Ellen Cockerham made fine work of their cameo duet in the “Amen” chorus.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
December calendar
Classical performances in and around Richmond, with selected events elsewhere in Virginia and the Washington area. Program information, provided by presenters, is updated as details become available. Adult single-ticket prices are listed; senior, student/youth, group and other discounts may be offered.
SCOUTING REPORT
* In the season’s spirit . . . It’s all good.
Dec. 1 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 2 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 3 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra
Christoph Eschenbach conducting
Golijov: commissioned work TBA
Britten: Violin Concerto
Midori, violin
Shostakovich: Symphony No. 1
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 2 (8 p.m.)
Black Music Center (old church), Virginia Commonwealth University, Grove Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
Choral Arts Society
VCU Women’s Choir
Vocal Chamber Ensemble
“Choral Showcase”
Britten: “A Ceremony of Carols”
other works TBA
free
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Dec. 2 (8 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Dec. 10 (8 p.m.)
First Presbyterian Church, 523 Park St., Charlottesville
Virginia Glee Club
Frank Albinder directing
Virginia Gentlemen
Christmas program TBA
$15
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Dec. 2 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 3 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 4 (1:30 p.m.)
University of Virginia Chapel, Charlottesville
The Virginia Women’s Chorus
Katherine Mitchell directing
“Candlelight Concert,” program TBA
$15
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Dec. 2 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 4 (2 p.m.)
Center for the Arts, George Mason University, Fairfax
Virginia Opera
Gerald Steichen conducting
Humperdinck: “Hansel and Gretel”
Karin Mushegain (Hansel)
Julia Ebner (Gretel)
Margaret Gawrysiak (Witch/Gertrude)
Eric Greene (Peter)
Jason Abrams (Sandman)
Elizabeth Baldwin (Dew Fairy)
Kevin Newbury, stage director
in English and German, English captions
$44-$98
(888) 945-2468 (Tickets.com)
http://www.vaopera.org/
Dec. 3 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 4 (3 p.m.)
Carpenter Theatre, Richmond CenterStage, Sixth and Grace streets
Richmond Symphony Pops
Erin R. Freeman conducting
Richmond Symphony Chorus
One Voice Chorus
“Let It Snow!” holiday program
works by Handel, Berlioz, Humperdinck, Rachmaninoff, Leroy Anderson, others
$12-$76
(800) 514-3849 (ETIX)
http://www.richmondsymphony.com/
Dec. 3 (4 and 7 p.m.)
First Presbyterian Church, 523 Park St., Charlottesville
The Virginia Consort
Youth Chorale
Christmas program TBA
$25
(434) 244-8444
http://www.virginiaconsort.org/
Dec. 3 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 4 (3:30 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Charlottesville & University Symphony Orchestra
U.Va. University Singers
Michael Slon conducting
Martha Eason, soprano
“Family Holiday Concert”
carols and works by Tchaikovsky, Leroy Anderson, others
$10-$38
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Dec. 3 (2 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Kathryn Stott, piano
Ravel: Sonatine
Debussy: Nocturne in D-flat major
Franck: Prelude, Chorale and Fugue
Ginastera: Sonata No. 1, Op. 22
Villa-Lobos: “Valsa da Dor”
Fitkin: “Relent” (1998)
Fauré: Nocturnes Nos. 4, 6
$40
(202) 785-9727 (Washington Performing Arts Society)
http://www.wpas.org/
Dec. 4 (4 p.m.)
St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 520 N. Boulevard, Richmond
Richmond Choral Society
Markus J. Compton directing
“Christmas with the Richmond Choral Society,” program TBA
$12-$30
(804) 353-9582
http://www.richmondchoralsociety.org/
Dec. 4 (5 and 8 p.m.)
Cannon Memorial Chapel, University of Richmond
UR Schola Cantorum & Women’s Chorale
Jeffrey Riehl & David Pedersen directing
“Christmas Candlelight Services,” festival of lessons and carols
free
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
Dec. 4 (3 p.m.)
Jefferson Center, 541 Luck Ave. SW, Roanoke
Roanoke Symphony
David Stewart Wiley conducting
Handel: “Messiah”
Adelaide Muir-Trombetta, soprano
Tara Bouknight, alto
John Hugo, tenor
Wayne Kompelien, bass
Roanoke Symphony Chorus
$21-$41
(540) 343-9127
http://www.rso.com/
Dec. 5 (7 p.m.)
Atrium of The James Center, 1051 E. Cary St., Richmond
Richmond Philharmonic
Robert Mirakian conducting
light classics and carols TBA, sing-along
donation requested
(804) 673-7400
http://www.richmondphilharmonic.org/
Dec. 6 (7:30 p.m.)
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Grove Avenue at Three Chopt Road, Richmond
choirs of St. Christopher’s School
Service of Lessons and Carols
free
(804) 288-2867
http://www.stchristophers.com/
Dec. 6 (8 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Handel: “Messiah” sing-along
Donald Loach directing
$8
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Dec. 6 (7:30 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Narek Arutyunian, clarinet
Steven Beck, piano
program TBA
$24
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 7 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 8 (8 p.m.)
Phi Beta Kappa Hall, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg
Dec. 9 (8 p.m.)
Regent University Theater, Virginia Beach
Dec. 10 (8 p.m.)
Chrysler Hall, 201 Brambleton Ave., Norfolk
Dec. 11 (2:30 p.m.)
Ferguson Arts Center, Christopher Newport University, Newport News
Virginia Symphony
Robert Franz conducting
Handel: “Messiah”
Máire O’Brien, soprano
Elise DesChampes, mezzo-soprano
Brian Stucki, tenor
Brian Banion, bass-baritone
Virginia Symphony Chorus
$20-$85
(757) 892-6366
http://www.virginiasymphony.org/
Dec. 7 (7:30 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Augustin Hadelich, violin
Rohan de Silva, piano
Beethoven: Violin Sonata No. 6 in A major, Op. 30, No. 1
Poulenc: Violin Sonata
Zimmermann: Sonata for Solo Violin (1951)
Brahms: Sonata for violin and piano No. 1 in G major, Op. 78
Sarasate: “Zigeunerweisen”
$32
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 8 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 9 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 10 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 11 (7 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra Pops
Steven Reineke conducting
The Canadian Tenors
Children’s Chorus of Washington
“The Greatest Gift,” program TBA
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 9 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 11 (3 p.m.)
Virginia Center Commons, 10101 Brook Road (U.S. 1), Glen Allen
Central Virginia Wind Symphony
Mike Goldberg directing
Ellen Broen, vocalist (Dec. 9)
Kat Simons, host (Dec. 9)
Audra Honaker, vocalist (Dec. 11)
Mikki Spencer, host (Dec. 11)
“Holiday Spectacular”
Anderson: “A Christmas Festival”
Carter: Overture for winds
Sousa: “The Fairest of the Fair”
Bocook (arr.): Selections from “Wicked”
Ricketts (arr.): Selections from “Grease”
Lavender (arr.): “John Williams In Concert”
Anderson: “Bugler’s Holiday”
Swearingen: “Christmas Favorites”
Ployhar: “Christmas Sing-Along”
Anderson: “Sleigh Ride”
free
(804) 342-8797
http://www.thewindsymphony.com/
Dec. 9 (7:30 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
VCU faculty and student performers
“VCU Music Holiday Gala,” program TBA
proceeds benefit VCU Hospitality House
$10
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Dec. 9 (8 p.m.)
Salem Civic Center, Roanoke Boulevard at U.S. 460 (alt.), Salem
Roanoke Symphony
David Stewart Wiley conducting
Adelaide Muir Trombetta, soprano
Hollins University Choir
Roanoke College Children’s Choir
“Holiday Pops Spectacular,” program TBA
$19-$33
(540) 343-9127
http://www.rso.com/
Dec. 9 (7:30 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Eric Owens, bass-baritone
Craig Rutenberg, piano
works by Wolf, Schumann, Schubert, Debussy, Duparc, Ravel, Wagner
$45
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 10 (7 p.m.)
Carpenter Theatre, Richmond CenterStage, Sixth and Grace streets
Richmond Symphony
Erin R. Freeman conducting
Handel: “Messiah”
Michelle Areyzaga, soprano
José Lemos, countertenor
William Ferguson, tenor
Matthew Burns, baritone
Richmond Symphony Chorus
$12-$45
(800) 514-3849 (ETIX)
http://www.richmondsymphony.com/
Dec. 11 (2:30 p.m.)
1 Welwyn Place, Richmond
Atlantic Chamber Ensemble
“House Specials: a Musical Meal of Your Choice”
works by Mozart, Rossini, Chopin, Piazzolla, others
reception follows
$10-$40 (limited seating, reservations suggested)
benefit for Neighborhood Resource Center of Greater Fulton
proceeds partially benefit scholarship fund for Williams Syndrome Association’s Music Camps for young people
(917) 414-3112
http://www.acensemble.org/
Dec. 11 (4 p.m.)
Bon Air Presbyterian Church, 9201 W. Huguenot Road, Richmond
Second Sunday South of the James:
Handel: “Messiah” sing-along
Anne Carr Regan conducting
Karen Floyd Savage, soprano
Heather Jones, mezzo-soprano
Andrew Seigle, tenor
James Lynn, bass
Kim Peachy, harpsichord
Stephen Henley, organ
donation requested
rehearsal at 1 p.m. Dec. 10
(804) 272-7514
Dec. 11 (4 p.m.)
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Lakeside Avenue at Dumbarton Road, Richmond
Greater Richmond Children’s Choir
Hope Armstrong Erb directing
“Festival of Holidays,” program TBA
$7-$11
(804) 201-1894
http://www.grcchoir.org/
Dec. 11 (4 p.m.)
Rockfish Presbyterian Church, 5016 Rockfish Valley Highway, Nellysford
Virginia Consort
“A Blue Ridge Christmas,” program TBA
$30
(434) 325-8292
http://www.virginiaconsort.org/
Dec. 14 (7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
Stile Antico
“Puer natus est,” English Tudor vocal music for Christmas and Advent
$38
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
Dec. 15 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 16 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 17 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 19 (1 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra
Matthew Halls conducting
Handel: “Messiah”
Kiera Duffy, soprano
Matthew Shaw, countertenor
James Gilchrist, tenor
Neal Davies, bass-baritone
University of Maryland Concert Choir
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 16 (8 p.m.)
Sandler Arts Center, 201 S. Market St., Virginia Beach
Dec. 17 (8 p.m.)
Chrysler Hall, 201 Brambleton Ave., Norfolk
Virginia Symphony Pops
Robert Shoup conducting
Virginia Symphony Chorus
Virginia Children’s Chorus
“Holiday Pops,” program TBA
$22-$85
(757) 892-6366
http://www.virginiasymphony.org/
Dec. 17 (3 and 8 p.m.)
Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Charlottesville
Oratorio Society of Virginia
Michael Slon directing
brass ensemble
John Rutter: Gloria
Poulenc: “O Magnum Mysterium”
other Christmas music TBA
$17-$57
(434) 979-1333
http://www.theparamount.net/
Dec. 17 (4 p.m.)
Dec. 18 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 20 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 22 (7 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
The Washington Chorus
Julian Wachner directing
Carl Tanner, tenor
“A Candlelight Christmas,” program TBA
$15-$65
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 17 (8 p.m.)
Coolidge Auditorium, Library of Congress, First Street at Independence Avenue S.E., Washington
Borromeo String Quartet
Seymour Lipkin, piano
Schuller: String Quartet No. 4
Beethoven: Violin Sonata No. 7 in C minor, Op. 30
Schubert: String Quartet in D minor, D. 810 (“Death and the Maiden”)
Free; tickets required
(703) 573-7328 (Ticketmaster)
http://www.loc.gov/rr/perform/concert/1112-schedule.html
Dec. 19 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 21 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 24 (1 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
Choral Arts Society of Washington
Norman Scribner directing
Ural Philharmonic
Enkhbaatar Baatarzhyvan conducting
Irina Shishkova, mezzo-soprano
The Choral Arts Chorus
“Holiday Treasures from Russia,” program TBA
$15-$65
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 23 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
Washington National Opera Orchestra
Barry Hemphill conducting
Handel: “Messiah” sing-along
free tickets distributed at 6 p.m. in Hall of Nations
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 31 (8:30 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra members
Murry Sidlin conducting
Salon Orchestra of Washington
“New Year’s Eve at the Kennedy Center,” program TBA
dancing in Grand Foyer at 11 p.m.
$50-$95
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
SCOUTING REPORT
* In the season’s spirit . . . It’s all good.
Dec. 1 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 2 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 3 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra
Christoph Eschenbach conducting
Golijov: commissioned work TBA
Britten: Violin Concerto
Midori, violin
Shostakovich: Symphony No. 1
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 2 (8 p.m.)
Black Music Center (old church), Virginia Commonwealth University, Grove Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
Choral Arts Society
VCU Women’s Choir
Vocal Chamber Ensemble
“Choral Showcase”
Britten: “A Ceremony of Carols”
other works TBA
free
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Dec. 2 (8 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Dec. 10 (8 p.m.)
First Presbyterian Church, 523 Park St., Charlottesville
Virginia Glee Club
Frank Albinder directing
Virginia Gentlemen
Christmas program TBA
$15
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Dec. 2 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 3 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 4 (1:30 p.m.)
University of Virginia Chapel, Charlottesville
The Virginia Women’s Chorus
Katherine Mitchell directing
“Candlelight Concert,” program TBA
$15
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Dec. 2 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 4 (2 p.m.)
Center for the Arts, George Mason University, Fairfax
Virginia Opera
Gerald Steichen conducting
Humperdinck: “Hansel and Gretel”
Karin Mushegain (Hansel)
Julia Ebner (Gretel)
Margaret Gawrysiak (Witch/Gertrude)
Eric Greene (Peter)
Jason Abrams (Sandman)
Elizabeth Baldwin (Dew Fairy)
Kevin Newbury, stage director
in English and German, English captions
$44-$98
(888) 945-2468 (Tickets.com)
http://www.vaopera.org/
Dec. 3 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 4 (3 p.m.)
Carpenter Theatre, Richmond CenterStage, Sixth and Grace streets
Richmond Symphony Pops
Erin R. Freeman conducting
Richmond Symphony Chorus
One Voice Chorus
“Let It Snow!” holiday program
works by Handel, Berlioz, Humperdinck, Rachmaninoff, Leroy Anderson, others
$12-$76
(800) 514-3849 (ETIX)
http://www.richmondsymphony.com/
Dec. 3 (4 and 7 p.m.)
First Presbyterian Church, 523 Park St., Charlottesville
The Virginia Consort
Youth Chorale
Christmas program TBA
$25
(434) 244-8444
http://www.virginiaconsort.org/
Dec. 3 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 4 (3:30 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Charlottesville & University Symphony Orchestra
U.Va. University Singers
Michael Slon conducting
Martha Eason, soprano
“Family Holiday Concert”
carols and works by Tchaikovsky, Leroy Anderson, others
$10-$38
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Dec. 3 (2 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Kathryn Stott, piano
Ravel: Sonatine
Debussy: Nocturne in D-flat major
Franck: Prelude, Chorale and Fugue
Ginastera: Sonata No. 1, Op. 22
Villa-Lobos: “Valsa da Dor”
Fitkin: “Relent” (1998)
Fauré: Nocturnes Nos. 4, 6
$40
(202) 785-9727 (Washington Performing Arts Society)
http://www.wpas.org/
Dec. 4 (4 p.m.)
St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 520 N. Boulevard, Richmond
Richmond Choral Society
Markus J. Compton directing
“Christmas with the Richmond Choral Society,” program TBA
$12-$30
(804) 353-9582
http://www.richmondchoralsociety.org/
Dec. 4 (5 and 8 p.m.)
Cannon Memorial Chapel, University of Richmond
UR Schola Cantorum & Women’s Chorale
Jeffrey Riehl & David Pedersen directing
“Christmas Candlelight Services,” festival of lessons and carols
free
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
Dec. 4 (3 p.m.)
Jefferson Center, 541 Luck Ave. SW, Roanoke
Roanoke Symphony
David Stewart Wiley conducting
Handel: “Messiah”
Adelaide Muir-Trombetta, soprano
Tara Bouknight, alto
John Hugo, tenor
Wayne Kompelien, bass
Roanoke Symphony Chorus
$21-$41
(540) 343-9127
http://www.rso.com/
Dec. 5 (7 p.m.)
Atrium of The James Center, 1051 E. Cary St., Richmond
Richmond Philharmonic
Robert Mirakian conducting
light classics and carols TBA, sing-along
donation requested
(804) 673-7400
http://www.richmondphilharmonic.org/
Dec. 6 (7:30 p.m.)
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Grove Avenue at Three Chopt Road, Richmond
choirs of St. Christopher’s School
Service of Lessons and Carols
free
(804) 288-2867
http://www.stchristophers.com/
Dec. 6 (8 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Handel: “Messiah” sing-along
Donald Loach directing
$8
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Dec. 6 (7:30 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Narek Arutyunian, clarinet
Steven Beck, piano
program TBA
$24
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 7 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 8 (8 p.m.)
Phi Beta Kappa Hall, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg
Dec. 9 (8 p.m.)
Regent University Theater, Virginia Beach
Dec. 10 (8 p.m.)
Chrysler Hall, 201 Brambleton Ave., Norfolk
Dec. 11 (2:30 p.m.)
Ferguson Arts Center, Christopher Newport University, Newport News
Virginia Symphony
Robert Franz conducting
Handel: “Messiah”
Máire O’Brien, soprano
Elise DesChampes, mezzo-soprano
Brian Stucki, tenor
Brian Banion, bass-baritone
Virginia Symphony Chorus
$20-$85
(757) 892-6366
http://www.virginiasymphony.org/
Dec. 7 (7:30 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Augustin Hadelich, violin
Rohan de Silva, piano
Beethoven: Violin Sonata No. 6 in A major, Op. 30, No. 1
Poulenc: Violin Sonata
Zimmermann: Sonata for Solo Violin (1951)
Brahms: Sonata for violin and piano No. 1 in G major, Op. 78
Sarasate: “Zigeunerweisen”
$32
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 8 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 9 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 10 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 11 (7 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra Pops
Steven Reineke conducting
The Canadian Tenors
Children’s Chorus of Washington
“The Greatest Gift,” program TBA
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 9 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 11 (3 p.m.)
Virginia Center Commons, 10101 Brook Road (U.S. 1), Glen Allen
Central Virginia Wind Symphony
Mike Goldberg directing
Ellen Broen, vocalist (Dec. 9)
Kat Simons, host (Dec. 9)
Audra Honaker, vocalist (Dec. 11)
Mikki Spencer, host (Dec. 11)
“Holiday Spectacular”
Anderson: “A Christmas Festival”
Carter: Overture for winds
Sousa: “The Fairest of the Fair”
Bocook (arr.): Selections from “Wicked”
Ricketts (arr.): Selections from “Grease”
Lavender (arr.): “John Williams In Concert”
Anderson: “Bugler’s Holiday”
Swearingen: “Christmas Favorites”
Ployhar: “Christmas Sing-Along”
Anderson: “Sleigh Ride”
free
(804) 342-8797
http://www.thewindsymphony.com/
Dec. 9 (7:30 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
VCU faculty and student performers
“VCU Music Holiday Gala,” program TBA
proceeds benefit VCU Hospitality House
$10
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Dec. 9 (8 p.m.)
Salem Civic Center, Roanoke Boulevard at U.S. 460 (alt.), Salem
Roanoke Symphony
David Stewart Wiley conducting
Adelaide Muir Trombetta, soprano
Hollins University Choir
Roanoke College Children’s Choir
“Holiday Pops Spectacular,” program TBA
$19-$33
(540) 343-9127
http://www.rso.com/
Dec. 9 (7:30 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Eric Owens, bass-baritone
Craig Rutenberg, piano
works by Wolf, Schumann, Schubert, Debussy, Duparc, Ravel, Wagner
$45
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 10 (7 p.m.)
Carpenter Theatre, Richmond CenterStage, Sixth and Grace streets
Richmond Symphony
Erin R. Freeman conducting
Handel: “Messiah”
Michelle Areyzaga, soprano
José Lemos, countertenor
William Ferguson, tenor
Matthew Burns, baritone
Richmond Symphony Chorus
$12-$45
(800) 514-3849 (ETIX)
http://www.richmondsymphony.com/
Dec. 11 (2:30 p.m.)
1 Welwyn Place, Richmond
Atlantic Chamber Ensemble
“House Specials: a Musical Meal of Your Choice”
works by Mozart, Rossini, Chopin, Piazzolla, others
reception follows
$10-$40 (limited seating, reservations suggested)
benefit for Neighborhood Resource Center of Greater Fulton
proceeds partially benefit scholarship fund for Williams Syndrome Association’s Music Camps for young people
(917) 414-3112
http://www.acensemble.org/
Dec. 11 (4 p.m.)
Bon Air Presbyterian Church, 9201 W. Huguenot Road, Richmond
Second Sunday South of the James:
Handel: “Messiah” sing-along
Anne Carr Regan conducting
Karen Floyd Savage, soprano
Heather Jones, mezzo-soprano
Andrew Seigle, tenor
James Lynn, bass
Kim Peachy, harpsichord
Stephen Henley, organ
donation requested
rehearsal at 1 p.m. Dec. 10
(804) 272-7514
Dec. 11 (4 p.m.)
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Lakeside Avenue at Dumbarton Road, Richmond
Greater Richmond Children’s Choir
Hope Armstrong Erb directing
“Festival of Holidays,” program TBA
$7-$11
(804) 201-1894
http://www.grcchoir.org/
Dec. 11 (4 p.m.)
Rockfish Presbyterian Church, 5016 Rockfish Valley Highway, Nellysford
Virginia Consort
“A Blue Ridge Christmas,” program TBA
$30
(434) 325-8292
http://www.virginiaconsort.org/
Dec. 14 (7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
Stile Antico
“Puer natus est,” English Tudor vocal music for Christmas and Advent
$38
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
Dec. 15 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 16 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 17 (8 p.m.)
Dec. 19 (1 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra
Matthew Halls conducting
Handel: “Messiah”
Kiera Duffy, soprano
Matthew Shaw, countertenor
James Gilchrist, tenor
Neal Davies, bass-baritone
University of Maryland Concert Choir
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 16 (8 p.m.)
Sandler Arts Center, 201 S. Market St., Virginia Beach
Dec. 17 (8 p.m.)
Chrysler Hall, 201 Brambleton Ave., Norfolk
Virginia Symphony Pops
Robert Shoup conducting
Virginia Symphony Chorus
Virginia Children’s Chorus
“Holiday Pops,” program TBA
$22-$85
(757) 892-6366
http://www.virginiasymphony.org/
Dec. 17 (3 and 8 p.m.)
Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Charlottesville
Oratorio Society of Virginia
Michael Slon directing
brass ensemble
John Rutter: Gloria
Poulenc: “O Magnum Mysterium”
other Christmas music TBA
$17-$57
(434) 979-1333
http://www.theparamount.net/
Dec. 17 (4 p.m.)
Dec. 18 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 20 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 22 (7 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
The Washington Chorus
Julian Wachner directing
Carl Tanner, tenor
“A Candlelight Christmas,” program TBA
$15-$65
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 17 (8 p.m.)
Coolidge Auditorium, Library of Congress, First Street at Independence Avenue S.E., Washington
Borromeo String Quartet
Seymour Lipkin, piano
Schuller: String Quartet No. 4
Beethoven: Violin Sonata No. 7 in C minor, Op. 30
Schubert: String Quartet in D minor, D. 810 (“Death and the Maiden”)
Free; tickets required
(703) 573-7328 (Ticketmaster)
http://www.loc.gov/rr/perform/concert/1112-schedule.html
Dec. 19 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 21 (7 p.m.)
Dec. 24 (1 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
Choral Arts Society of Washington
Norman Scribner directing
Ural Philharmonic
Enkhbaatar Baatarzhyvan conducting
Irina Shishkova, mezzo-soprano
The Choral Arts Chorus
“Holiday Treasures from Russia,” program TBA
$15-$65
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 23 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
Washington National Opera Orchestra
Barry Hemphill conducting
Handel: “Messiah” sing-along
free tickets distributed at 6 p.m. in Hall of Nations
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Dec. 31 (8:30 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra members
Murry Sidlin conducting
Salon Orchestra of Washington
“New Year’s Eve at the Kennedy Center,” program TBA
dancing in Grand Foyer at 11 p.m.
$50-$95
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Review: Takács Quartet
Nov. 14, University of Richmond
by Francis Church
guest reviewer
The 20th century, not to say the 21st, is anathema to too many listeners of so-called classical music. What a pity!
The Takács Quartet unveiled the last century in its many moods on Monday night in the Camp Concert
Hall at the University of Richmond. The result: one of the finest concerts ever to reach these ears. Ever!
For openers, this ensemble – violinists Edward Dusinberre and Karoly Schranz, violist Geraldine Walther and cellist Andreas Fejer – chose the first of Leos Janáček’s two string quartets, subtitled “After Tolstoy’s The Kreutzer Sonata.” Based on Tolstoy’s novella, in which Beethoven’s “Kreutzer” Sonata for violin and piano takes on a prominent role, in a tale of ill-fated love, ending in murder, the music is highly operatic and episodic.
The Takács captured every mood, shifting from the dance-like to the dark, including in the third movement a brief statement from the Beethoven sonata, by first violin and cello, broken by slashing chords from second violin and viola. Finally, the Janáček quartet ends in emotion and resignation.
Next up was Benjamin Britten’s first quartet, written in 1941 during his stay in the United States. It shows the influence of the music he was listening to at the time, according to UR faculty member Jessie Fillerup in her engaging pre-concert talk: Stravinsky (“The Rite of Spring” and “Symphony of Psalms”) and Schoenberg (“Erwartung”). A far cry from Ralph Vaughan Williams and Gustav Holst!
Unlike Janáček, Britten used many elements of formal structure, such as sonata form and counterpoint. And there were folksy elements, as well. The Takács offered a spunky, spiky reading that kept the audience on the edge of its seats. The playing of violist Walther was a special wonder. What warmth and power! No more viola jokes, please.
The concert closed with Maurice Ravel’s lone quartet, written at the opening of the 20th century. Unlike the works on the first half of this program, the Ravel is a staple. The Takács offered a singularly inspiring account, shimmering, balanced and probing, one to remember.
Thank heavens, the Takács let it go at that – no encore when one was not needed. One would like to add a future wish list of a Bartók quartet cycle in which this foursome with Hungarian roots excels. Come back soon.
Francis Church, retired music critic of The Richmond News Leader, is an avid chamber music lover and player.
by Francis Church
guest reviewer
The 20th century, not to say the 21st, is anathema to too many listeners of so-called classical music. What a pity!
The Takács Quartet unveiled the last century in its many moods on Monday night in the Camp Concert
Hall at the University of Richmond. The result: one of the finest concerts ever to reach these ears. Ever!For openers, this ensemble – violinists Edward Dusinberre and Karoly Schranz, violist Geraldine Walther and cellist Andreas Fejer – chose the first of Leos Janáček’s two string quartets, subtitled “After Tolstoy’s The Kreutzer Sonata.” Based on Tolstoy’s novella, in which Beethoven’s “Kreutzer” Sonata for violin and piano takes on a prominent role, in a tale of ill-fated love, ending in murder, the music is highly operatic and episodic.
The Takács captured every mood, shifting from the dance-like to the dark, including in the third movement a brief statement from the Beethoven sonata, by first violin and cello, broken by slashing chords from second violin and viola. Finally, the Janáček quartet ends in emotion and resignation.
Next up was Benjamin Britten’s first quartet, written in 1941 during his stay in the United States. It shows the influence of the music he was listening to at the time, according to UR faculty member Jessie Fillerup in her engaging pre-concert talk: Stravinsky (“The Rite of Spring” and “Symphony of Psalms”) and Schoenberg (“Erwartung”). A far cry from Ralph Vaughan Williams and Gustav Holst!
Unlike Janáček, Britten used many elements of formal structure, such as sonata form and counterpoint. And there were folksy elements, as well. The Takács offered a spunky, spiky reading that kept the audience on the edge of its seats. The playing of violist Walther was a special wonder. What warmth and power! No more viola jokes, please.
The concert closed with Maurice Ravel’s lone quartet, written at the opening of the 20th century. Unlike the works on the first half of this program, the Ravel is a staple. The Takács offered a singularly inspiring account, shimmering, balanced and probing, one to remember.
Thank heavens, the Takács let it go at that – no encore when one was not needed. One would like to add a future wish list of a Bartók quartet cycle in which this foursome with Hungarian roots excels. Come back soon.
Francis Church, retired music critic of The Richmond News Leader, is an avid chamber music lover and player.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Review: Fry Street Quartet
with Robert McDonald, piano
Nov. 5, Virginia Commonwealth University
A string quartet without its usual first violinist is not its usual self – not nearly so in the large body of quartet literature in which the ensemble takes its expressive cues from and plays off the melodies of the first fiddle.
That may account for the thin and uneven collective sound and expressive caution of the Fry Street Quartet when the group arrived for a Rennolds Chamber Concerts date at VCU with a guest first violinist, Felicia Moye, joining three of its regulars, second violinist Rebecca McFaul, violist Bradley Ottesen and cellist Anne Francis.
The ensemble sounded best in Shostakovich’s Quartet No. 7, whose string parts are sharply etched and tonally stark and whose accents and dynamics are fairly straightforward. The four string players made a strong impression in the piece, especially cellist Francis and violist Ottesen in the somber melody of the central slow movement.
The group, joined by pianist Robert McDonald, played Brahms’ Piano Quintet in F minor, Op. 34, at such a measured pace that the work’s volatile and vehement elements came across with little more than thumping emphasis and its andante’s bittersweet lyricism sounded merely sweet. McDonald reined in piano sound to not overpower the strings and brought out some usually obscured inner lines of the piano part; but that’s about all this account had going for it.
The string players were a bit more expressively engaged in Beethoven’s Quartet in C minor, Op. 18, No. 4. Cellist Francis, as she had in the Brahms, seemed to be striving to ignite the proceedings with sharp accenting and robust bass lines; and the group warmed to the work as it went along, playing the concluding menuetto and allegro with animation and fire.
Nov. 5, Virginia Commonwealth University
A string quartet without its usual first violinist is not its usual self – not nearly so in the large body of quartet literature in which the ensemble takes its expressive cues from and plays off the melodies of the first fiddle.
That may account for the thin and uneven collective sound and expressive caution of the Fry Street Quartet when the group arrived for a Rennolds Chamber Concerts date at VCU with a guest first violinist, Felicia Moye, joining three of its regulars, second violinist Rebecca McFaul, violist Bradley Ottesen and cellist Anne Francis.
The ensemble sounded best in Shostakovich’s Quartet No. 7, whose string parts are sharply etched and tonally stark and whose accents and dynamics are fairly straightforward. The four string players made a strong impression in the piece, especially cellist Francis and violist Ottesen in the somber melody of the central slow movement.
The group, joined by pianist Robert McDonald, played Brahms’ Piano Quintet in F minor, Op. 34, at such a measured pace that the work’s volatile and vehement elements came across with little more than thumping emphasis and its andante’s bittersweet lyricism sounded merely sweet. McDonald reined in piano sound to not overpower the strings and brought out some usually obscured inner lines of the piano part; but that’s about all this account had going for it.
The string players were a bit more expressively engaged in Beethoven’s Quartet in C minor, Op. 18, No. 4. Cellist Francis, as she had in the Brahms, seemed to be striving to ignite the proceedings with sharp accenting and robust bass lines; and the group warmed to the work as it went along, playing the concluding menuetto and allegro with animation and fire.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
November calendar
Classical performances in and around Richmond, with selected events elsewhere in Virginia and the Washington area. Program information, provided by presenters, is updated as details become available. Adult single-ticket prices are listed; senior, student/youth, group and other discounts may be offered.
SCOUTING REPORT
* In and around Richmond: Nathan Laube plays Bach, Mendelssohn, Duruflé and more in an American Guild of Organists recital, Nov. 1 at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. . . . eighth blackbird, the Verge Ensemble and others join for the University of Richmond’s Third Practice Electroacoustic Music Festival, presenting five programs on Nov. 4-5 at UR’s Modlin Arts Center. . . . The Fry Street Quartet and pianist Robert McDonald perform in a Rennolds Chamber Concerts program, Nov. 5 at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Singleton Arts Center. . . . The VCU Symphony Orchestra, choral groups and clarinetist Charles West perform in an all-Mozart program, Nov. 8 at the Singleton Center. . . . Pianist Anton Nel and the Richmond Symphony Chorus join conductor Steven Smith and the symphony in music of Ravel, Poulenc, Rossini and Stravinsky, Nov. 12-13 at Richmond CenterStage. . . . The Takács Quartet, one of the world’s premier string quartets, plays Janáĉek, Britten and Ravel, Nov. 14 at UR’s Modlin Center. . . . The James River Singers perform in a mostly American program, Nov. 19 at River Road Church, Baptist, and Nov. 20 at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church. . . . The Richmond Concert Chorale anticipates Christmas in “In dulci jubilo,” Nov. 20 at All Saints Episcopal Church. . . . Virginia Opera stages Engelbert Humperdinck’s family classic “Hansel and Gretel,” Nov. 25 and 27 at Richmond CenterStage (following a Nov. 12-20 run at Norfolk’s Harrison Opera House).
* Also noteworthy: Pianist Peter Serkin joins Oliver Knussen and the National Symphony in a program of Messiaen and Stravinsky, Nov. 3-5 at Washington’s Kennedy Center. . . . Flutists James and Jeanne Galway play Mozart and Cimarosa with the Roanoke Symphony, Nov. 6 at the Roanoke Performing Arts Theatre. . . . The Washington National Opera stages Donizetti’s “Lucia di Lammermoor,” with Sarah Coburn and Lyubov Petrova alternating in the title role, Nov. 10-19 at the Kennedy Center. . . . The Toronto-based Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra plays Bach, Vivaldi, Lully and Fasch in a Tuesday Evening Concert Series program, Nov. 15 at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. . . . John Eliot Gardiner’s Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique gives an all-Beethoven program, including the “Eroica” and Fifth symphonies, Nov. 19 at the Kennedy Center. . . . The Chanticleer men’s vocal ensemble presents “A Chanticleer Christmas,” Nov. 26 at George Mason University’s Center for the Arts in Fairfax.
Nov. 1 (7:30 p.m.)
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Grove Avenue at Three Chopt Road, Richmond
American Guild of Organists Repertoire Recital Series:
Nathan Laube, organ
Bach: Toccata in E major, BWV 566
Sowerby: “Requiescat in Pace”
Mendelssohn-Laube: “Variations sérieuses,” Op. 54
Saint-Saëns: Fantasie in D flat major, Op. 101
Duruflé: Suite, Op. 5
Donation requested
(804) 288-2867
http://www.richmondago.org/
Nov. 1 (7:30 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Orion String Quartet
Bach: Contrapunctus 1 from “The Art of the Fugue”
Webern: “Five Pieces”
Brahms: Quartet No. 3 in B flat major, Op. 67
Schubert: Quartet in G major, D. 887
$38
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 2 (7 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
Johnandrew Slominski, piano
program TBA
free
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Nov. 3 (6:30 p.m.)
Museum of Contemporary Art, 2200 Parks Ave., Virginia Beach
Lyric Opera Virginia
Shelly Milam, soprano
Andrew Seigla, tenor
children’s chorus
preview of Rodgers’ & Hammerstein’s “The King and I”
$30
(757) 446-6666
http://www.lyricoperavirginia.org/
Nov. 3 (7 p.m.)
Nov. 4 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 5 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra
Oliver Knussen conducting
Messiaen: “Le Réveil des oiseaux”
Peter Serkin, piano
Stravinsky: “Firebird” Suite
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 3 (7:30 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Pro Musica Hebraica:
Jascha Nemtsov, piano
other performers TBA
Stutschewsky: “Jewish Song + Freilachs” for cello and piano
Wolfsohn: “Two Paraphrases on Old Jewish Folk Tunes” for piano solo
Weinberg: Piano Trio, Op. 24
Krein: “Elegie” for piano trio
Veprik: “Chant rigoureux” for clarinet and piano
Jacob Schoenberg: “Chassidic Suite” for piano solo
Chajes-Sarah Nemtsov: “Hebrew Suite” (arr. for piano trio and clarinet) (premiere)
$38
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 4 (2:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 5 (10:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
Third Practice Electroacoustic Music Festival:
Benjamin Broening, artistic director
eighth blackbird
Verge Ensemble
Elizabeth McNutt, flute
works by Heather Stebbins, Joo Won Park, Lesley Hinger, David Malkiel, Christopher Chandler, Anna Clyne, Alvin Lucier, Jacob Ter Veldhuis, Mario Diaz de Leon, McGregor Boyle, Konstantinos Karathanasis, Andrew May, Nina C. Young, William Kleinasser, Nathan Wolek, Mark Kilstofte, Kevin Ernste, Benjamin Broening, James Mobberly, Kaija Saariaho, Steve Antonsca, Lucky Leone & Butch Rover
Free
(804) 289-8980
http://www.thirdpractice.org/
Nov. 4 (7 p.m.)
Carpenter Theatre, Richmond CenterStage, Sixth and Grace streets
Richmond Symphony
Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra
Richmond Symphony Youth Concert Orchestra
Erin R. Freeman conducting
“Side by Side,” program TBA
Free
(800) 514-3849 (Etix.com)
http://www.richmondsymphony.com/
Nov. 4 (8 p.m.)
Coolidge Auditorium, Library of Congress, First Street at Independence Avenue S.E., Washington
Mozart Piano Quartet
Mozart: Piano Quartet in G minor, K. 478
Mahler: piano quartet movement in A minor
Saint-Saëns: Piano Quartet in B flat major, Op. 41
free; tickets required
(703) 573-7328 (Ticketmaster)
http://www.loc.gov/rr/perform/concert/1112-schedule.html
Nov. 5 (8 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
Rennolds Chamber Concerts:
Fry Street Quartet
Robert McDonald, piano
program TBA
$32
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Nov. 5 (8 p.m.)
Regent University Theatre, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach
Virginia Symphony
Benjamin Rous conducting
Haydn: Symphony No. 83 (“The Hen”)
Judith Shatin: “Jefferson, in His Own Words”
Bill Barker, narrator
Beethoven: Violin Concerto
Vahn Armstrong, violin
$20-$50
(757) 892-6366
http://www.virginiasymphony.org/
Nov. 5 (2 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Marouan Benabdallah, piano
works by Schubert, Debussy, Ravel, Granados, Albeniz, Benabdallah
$38
(202) 785-9727 (Washington Performing Arts Society)
http://www.wpas.org/
Nov. 5 (2 p.m.)
Coolidge Auditorium, Library of Congress, First Street at Independence Avenue S.E., Washington
Roberto Díaz, viola
Kwan Yi, piano
Liszt: “Romance oubliée”
Brahms: Sonata in F minor, op. 120, no. 1
Bach: Cello Suite no. 1 in G Major (viola arr.)
Brahms: Sonata in E-flat Major, op. 120, no. 2
free; tickets required
(703) 573-7328 (Ticketmaster)
http://www.loc.gov/rr/perform/concert/1112-schedule.html
Nov. 6 (6 p.m.)
Verizon Wireless Arena, Siegel Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Broad and Harrison streets, Richmond
Richmond Symphony
community musicians
Erin R. Freeman conducting
“Come and Play,” program TBA
free
(800) 514-3849 (Etix.com)
http://www.richmondsymphony.com/
Nov. 6 (3 p.m.)
Central United Methodist Church, 14 N. Lewis St., Staunton
Staunton Music Festival:
Carsten Schmidt & Jason Stell, harpsichord
lecture-performance of Bach’s “Well-Temprered Clavier,” Book 2
$15
(540) 569-0267
http://www.stauntonmusicfestival.com/
Nov. 6 (3 p.m.)
Roanoke Performing Arts Theatre, Orange Avenue at Williamson Road
Roanoke Symphony
David Stewart Wiley conducting
Glinka: “Russlan and Ludmilla” Overture
Mozart: “The Magic Flute” Overture
Mozart: Flute Concerto No. 2 in D major, K. 314
James Galway, flute
Mendelssohn: “Hebrides” Overture
Cimarosa: Concerto in G major for two flutes
James & Jeanne Galway
$21-$69
(540) 343-9127
http://www.rso.com/
Nov. 6 (8 p.m.)
Center for the Arts, George Mason University, Fairfax
Chamber Orchestra Kremlin
Misha Rachlevsky conducting
program TBA
$23-$46
(888) 945-2468 (Tickets.com)
http://cfa.gmu.edu/calendar/month/2011/11/
Nov. 6 (2 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Kennedy Center Chamber Players
Bach: Sonata No. 1 in B minor, BWV 1014, for violin and piano
Mendelssohn: Sonata in F major for violin and piano
Bach: Sonata No. 1 in G major, BWV 1027, for cello and piano
Mendelssohn: Piano Trio No. 2 in C minor, Op. 66
$35
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 8 (8 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
VCU Symphony Orchestra
Daniel Myssyk conducting
Mozart: Clarinet Concerto
Charles West, clarinet
Mozart: Requiem
soloists TBA
VCU Choral Arts Society
Commonwealth Singers
$5
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Nov. 8 (8 p.m.)
Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD
Garrick Ohlsson, piano
Handel: Keyboard Suite in B flat major
Brahms: “Handel Variations”
Chopin: Barcarolle, Op. 60
Chopin: Mazurka in C sharp minor, Op. 50, No. 3
Chopin: Sonata No. 3 in B minor
$23-$80
(202) 785-9727 (Washington Performing Arts Society)
http://www.wpas.org/
Nov. 10 (7 p.m.)
Nov. 11 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 12 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra
Leonard Slatkin conducting
Anna Clyne: “rewind”
Saint-Saëns: Cello Concerto No. 1
Gautier Capuçon, cello
Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 3
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 10 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 12 (7 p.m.)
Nov. 13 (2 p.m.)
Nov. 14 (7 p.m.)
Nov. 15 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 16 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 18 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 19 (7 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Opera House, Washington
Washington National Opera
Philippe Auguin conducting
Donizetti: “Lucia di Lammermoor”
Sarah Coburn/Lyubov Petrova (Lucia)
Saimir Pirgu/Alexey Dolgov (Edgardo)
Michael Chioldi/Brian Mulligan (Enrico)
Mirco Palazzi/Paolo Pecchioli (Raimondo)
David Alden, stage director
in Italian, English captions
$25-$300
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 11 (8 p.m.)
Ferguson Arts Center, Christopher Newport University, Newport News
Nov. 13 (2:30 p.m.)
Sandler Arts Center, 201 S. Market St., Virginia Beach
Nov. 19 (8 p.m.)
Chrysler Hall, 201 Brambleton Ave., Norfolk
Virginia Symphony
JoAnn Falletta conducting
Berlioz: “Harold in Italy”
Beverly Baker, viola
Tchaikovsky: “Francesca da Rimini”
Tchaikovsky: “Capriccio Italien”
$20-$87
(757) 892-6366
http://www.virginiasymphony.org/
Nov. 12 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 13 (3 p.m.)
Carpenter Theatre, Richmond CenterStage, Sixth and Grace streets
Richmond Symphony
Steven Smith conducting
Rossini: “The Barber of Seville” Overture
Poulenc: Gloria
Richmond Symphony Chorus
Erin R. Freeman directing
Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major
Anton Nel, piano
Stravinsky: “Jeu de Cartes”
$18-$73
(800) 514-3849 (Etix.com)
http://www.richmondsymphony.com/
Nov. 12 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 16 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 18 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 20 (2:30 p.m.)
Harrison Opera House, 160 E. Virginia Beach Boulevard, Norfolk
Virginia Opera
Gerald Steichen conducting
Humperdinck: “Hansel and Gretel”
Karin Mushegain (Hansel)
Julia Ebner (Gretel)
Margaret Gawrysiak (Witch/Gertrude)
Eric Greene (Peter)
Jason Abrams (Sandman)
Elizabeth Baldwin (Dew Fairy)
Kevin Newbury, stage director
in English and German, English captions
$25-$114
(866) 673-7282
http://www.vaopera.org/
Nov. 12 (8 p.m.)
Center for the Arts, George Mason University, Fairfax
Fairfax Symphony
Christopher Zimmerman conducting
Mozart: Symphony No. 10
Barber: Adagio for strings
Ginastera: Harp Concerto
Yolanda Kondonassis, harp
Barber: “First Essay for Orchestra”
Schubert: Symphony No. 5
$25-$55
(888) 945-2468 (Tickets.com)
http://www.fairfaxsymphony.org/
Nov. 13 (4 p.m.)
Bon Air Presbyterian Church, 9201 W. Huguenot Road, Richmond
Second Sunday South of the James:
Marjorie Wharton, mezzo-soprano
Russell Wilson, piano
opera arias, spirituals TBA
donation requested
(804) 272-7514
Nov. 13 (7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
UR Wind Ensemble
David Niethamer directing
Gordon Jacobs: “William Byrd Suuite”
other works TBA
free
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
Nov. 13 (3 p.m.)
Central United Methodist Church, 14 N. Lewis St., Staunton
Staunton Music Festival:
Carsten Schmidt, harpsichord
Bach: “The Well-Tempered Clavier,” Book 2
$20
(540) 569-0267
http://www.stauntonmusicfestival.com/
Nov. 13 (4 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
Choral Arts Society of Washington & orchestra
Norman Scribner conducting
Stravinsky: “Symphony of Psalms”
Bernstein: “Chichester Psalms”
Lauridsen: “Lux Aeterna”
Prokofiev: “Alexander Nevsky” (excerpts)
$15-$65
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 14 (7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
Takács Quartet
Janáĉek: Quartet No. 1 (“Intimate Letters”)
Britten: Quartet No. 1
Ravel: Quartet in F major
$38
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
Nov. 15 (8 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Tuesday Evening Concerts:
Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra
Jeanne Lamon, violin & director
Fasch: Orchestral Suite in D minor
Bach: Concerto in D minor, for three violins, after BWV 1063
Lully: “Phaeton” Suite
Bach: Violin Concerto in A minor, after BWV 1067
Vivaldi: Concerto in D minor for two oboes
$25-$30
(434) 924-3376
http://www.tecs.org/
Nov. 17 (7 p.m.)
Nov. 18 (1:30 p.m.)
Nov. 19 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra
Christoph Eschenbach conducting
Beethoven: Symphony No. 6 (“Pastoral”)
Brahms: Violin Concerto
Leonidas Kavakos, violin
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 18 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
The Washington Chorus & orchestra
Julian Wachner conducting
Wachner: “Come My Dark Eyed One”
Mozart: Mass in C minor (“Great”)
Marie-Ève Munger, soprano
Arianna Zukerman, soprano
Arnold Rawls, tenor
David Kravitz, baritone
$15-$65
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 19 (7 p.m.)
River Road Church, Baptist, River and Ridge roads, Richmond
Nov. 20 (5 p.m.)
Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, Monument Avenue at Staples Mill Road, Richmond
James River Singers
David Pedersen directing
Amy Beach: Te Deum
René Clausen: “Three Whitman Settings from ‘Leaves of Grass’ ”
Stravinsky-Gesualdo: “Tres Cantiones Sacrae”
Barber: “Reincarnations”
Bernstein: “Make Our Garden Grow” from “Candide”
works by Billings, Ronald Staheli, Mack Wilberg
$15
(804) 233-9220
http://www.jamesriversingers.org/
Nov. 19 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 20 (4 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
VCU Opera
Melanie Kohn Day directing
singers TBA
arias and scenes by Mozart, Rossini, Bizet, Handel, others
Free
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Nov. 19 (8 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Nov. 20 (3 p.m.)
Monticello High School, 1400 Independence Way, Charlottesville
Charlottesville & University Symphony Orchestra
Stephen Czarkowski conducting
Bernstein: “Chichester Psalms”
Stravinsky: “Symphony of Psalms”
University Singers
Michael Slon directing
Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 2 (“Little Russian”)
$10-$38
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Nov. 19 (3 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique
John Eliot Gardiner conducting
Beethoven: “Egmont” Overture
Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 (“Eroica”)
Beethoven: Symphony No. 5
$39-$100
(202) 785-9727 (Washington Performing Arts Society)
http://www.wpas.org/
Nov. 20 (7:30 p.m.)
All Saints Episcopal Church, River and Parham roads, Richmond
Richmond Concert Chorale
Grant Hellmers directing
Crystal Jonkman, organ
“In dulci jubilo,” Christmas works by Praetorius, Byrd, Vaughan Williams, Reger, others
donation requested
(804) 288-7811
Nov. 20 (8 p.m.)
Brooks Hall Commons, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Assaf Schellig, piano
works TBA by Israeli and Jewish composers
free
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Nov. 21 (8 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
U.Va. Baroque Orchestra
David Sariti conducting
Palladian Chamber Orchestra
works by Handel, C.P.E. Bach, Rosenmuller, Muffat, Finzi
Free
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Nov. 25 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 27 (2:30 p.m.)
Carpenter Theatre, Richmond CenterStage, Sixth and Grace streets
Virginia Opera
Gerald Steichen conducting
Humperdinck: “Hansel and Gretel”
Karin Mushegain (Hansel)
Julia Ebner (Gretel)
Margaret Gawrysiak (Witch/Gertrude)
Eric Greene (Peter)
Jason Abrams (Sandman)
Elizabeth Baldwin (Dew Fairy)
Kevin Newbury, stage director
in English and German, English captions
$29-$111
(866) 673-7282
http://www.vaopera.org/
Nov. 26 (8 p.m.)
Center for the Arts, George Mason University, Fairfax
Chanticleer
“A Chanticleer Christmas,” program TBA
$24-$48
(888) 945-2468 (Tickets.com)
http://cfa.gmu.edu/calendar/month/2011/11/
Nov. 28 (7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
UR chamber ensembles
vocalists TBA
opera scenes TBA
Free
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
Nov. 30 (7 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
VCU Symphonic Wind Ensemble
University Band
Terry Austin directing
Hindemith: Symphony in B flat major
Michael Schelle: “The End of the World”
Frescobaldi-Slocum: Toccata
$5
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Nov. 30 (7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
UR Symphony Orchestra
Alexander Kordzaia conducting
winners of 2011 Concerto/Vocal Competition
works by Mozart, Dvořák, others
Free
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
SCOUTING REPORT
* In and around Richmond: Nathan Laube plays Bach, Mendelssohn, Duruflé and more in an American Guild of Organists recital, Nov. 1 at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. . . . eighth blackbird, the Verge Ensemble and others join for the University of Richmond’s Third Practice Electroacoustic Music Festival, presenting five programs on Nov. 4-5 at UR’s Modlin Arts Center. . . . The Fry Street Quartet and pianist Robert McDonald perform in a Rennolds Chamber Concerts program, Nov. 5 at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Singleton Arts Center. . . . The VCU Symphony Orchestra, choral groups and clarinetist Charles West perform in an all-Mozart program, Nov. 8 at the Singleton Center. . . . Pianist Anton Nel and the Richmond Symphony Chorus join conductor Steven Smith and the symphony in music of Ravel, Poulenc, Rossini and Stravinsky, Nov. 12-13 at Richmond CenterStage. . . . The Takács Quartet, one of the world’s premier string quartets, plays Janáĉek, Britten and Ravel, Nov. 14 at UR’s Modlin Center. . . . The James River Singers perform in a mostly American program, Nov. 19 at River Road Church, Baptist, and Nov. 20 at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church. . . . The Richmond Concert Chorale anticipates Christmas in “In dulci jubilo,” Nov. 20 at All Saints Episcopal Church. . . . Virginia Opera stages Engelbert Humperdinck’s family classic “Hansel and Gretel,” Nov. 25 and 27 at Richmond CenterStage (following a Nov. 12-20 run at Norfolk’s Harrison Opera House).
* Also noteworthy: Pianist Peter Serkin joins Oliver Knussen and the National Symphony in a program of Messiaen and Stravinsky, Nov. 3-5 at Washington’s Kennedy Center. . . . Flutists James and Jeanne Galway play Mozart and Cimarosa with the Roanoke Symphony, Nov. 6 at the Roanoke Performing Arts Theatre. . . . The Washington National Opera stages Donizetti’s “Lucia di Lammermoor,” with Sarah Coburn and Lyubov Petrova alternating in the title role, Nov. 10-19 at the Kennedy Center. . . . The Toronto-based Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra plays Bach, Vivaldi, Lully and Fasch in a Tuesday Evening Concert Series program, Nov. 15 at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. . . . John Eliot Gardiner’s Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique gives an all-Beethoven program, including the “Eroica” and Fifth symphonies, Nov. 19 at the Kennedy Center. . . . The Chanticleer men’s vocal ensemble presents “A Chanticleer Christmas,” Nov. 26 at George Mason University’s Center for the Arts in Fairfax.
Nov. 1 (7:30 p.m.)
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Grove Avenue at Three Chopt Road, Richmond
American Guild of Organists Repertoire Recital Series:
Nathan Laube, organ
Bach: Toccata in E major, BWV 566
Sowerby: “Requiescat in Pace”
Mendelssohn-Laube: “Variations sérieuses,” Op. 54
Saint-Saëns: Fantasie in D flat major, Op. 101
Duruflé: Suite, Op. 5
Donation requested
(804) 288-2867
http://www.richmondago.org/
Nov. 1 (7:30 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Orion String Quartet
Bach: Contrapunctus 1 from “The Art of the Fugue”
Webern: “Five Pieces”
Brahms: Quartet No. 3 in B flat major, Op. 67
Schubert: Quartet in G major, D. 887
$38
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 2 (7 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
Johnandrew Slominski, piano
program TBA
free
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Nov. 3 (6:30 p.m.)
Museum of Contemporary Art, 2200 Parks Ave., Virginia Beach
Lyric Opera Virginia
Shelly Milam, soprano
Andrew Seigla, tenor
children’s chorus
preview of Rodgers’ & Hammerstein’s “The King and I”
$30
(757) 446-6666
http://www.lyricoperavirginia.org/
Nov. 3 (7 p.m.)
Nov. 4 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 5 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra
Oliver Knussen conducting
Messiaen: “Le Réveil des oiseaux”
Peter Serkin, piano
Stravinsky: “Firebird” Suite
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 3 (7:30 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Pro Musica Hebraica:
Jascha Nemtsov, piano
other performers TBA
Stutschewsky: “Jewish Song + Freilachs” for cello and piano
Wolfsohn: “Two Paraphrases on Old Jewish Folk Tunes” for piano solo
Weinberg: Piano Trio, Op. 24
Krein: “Elegie” for piano trio
Veprik: “Chant rigoureux” for clarinet and piano
Jacob Schoenberg: “Chassidic Suite” for piano solo
Chajes-Sarah Nemtsov: “Hebrew Suite” (arr. for piano trio and clarinet) (premiere)
$38
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 4 (2:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 5 (10:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
Third Practice Electroacoustic Music Festival:
Benjamin Broening, artistic director
eighth blackbird
Verge Ensemble
Elizabeth McNutt, flute
works by Heather Stebbins, Joo Won Park, Lesley Hinger, David Malkiel, Christopher Chandler, Anna Clyne, Alvin Lucier, Jacob Ter Veldhuis, Mario Diaz de Leon, McGregor Boyle, Konstantinos Karathanasis, Andrew May, Nina C. Young, William Kleinasser, Nathan Wolek, Mark Kilstofte, Kevin Ernste, Benjamin Broening, James Mobberly, Kaija Saariaho, Steve Antonsca, Lucky Leone & Butch Rover
Free
(804) 289-8980
http://www.thirdpractice.org/
Nov. 4 (7 p.m.)
Carpenter Theatre, Richmond CenterStage, Sixth and Grace streets
Richmond Symphony
Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra
Richmond Symphony Youth Concert Orchestra
Erin R. Freeman conducting
“Side by Side,” program TBA
Free
(800) 514-3849 (Etix.com)
http://www.richmondsymphony.com/
Nov. 4 (8 p.m.)
Coolidge Auditorium, Library of Congress, First Street at Independence Avenue S.E., Washington
Mozart Piano Quartet
Mozart: Piano Quartet in G minor, K. 478
Mahler: piano quartet movement in A minor
Saint-Saëns: Piano Quartet in B flat major, Op. 41
free; tickets required
(703) 573-7328 (Ticketmaster)
http://www.loc.gov/rr/perform/concert/1112-schedule.html
Nov. 5 (8 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
Rennolds Chamber Concerts:
Fry Street Quartet
Robert McDonald, piano
program TBA
$32
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Nov. 5 (8 p.m.)
Regent University Theatre, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach
Virginia Symphony
Benjamin Rous conducting
Haydn: Symphony No. 83 (“The Hen”)
Judith Shatin: “Jefferson, in His Own Words”
Bill Barker, narrator
Beethoven: Violin Concerto
Vahn Armstrong, violin
$20-$50
(757) 892-6366
http://www.virginiasymphony.org/
Nov. 5 (2 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Marouan Benabdallah, piano
works by Schubert, Debussy, Ravel, Granados, Albeniz, Benabdallah
$38
(202) 785-9727 (Washington Performing Arts Society)
http://www.wpas.org/
Nov. 5 (2 p.m.)
Coolidge Auditorium, Library of Congress, First Street at Independence Avenue S.E., Washington
Roberto Díaz, viola
Kwan Yi, piano
Liszt: “Romance oubliée”
Brahms: Sonata in F minor, op. 120, no. 1
Bach: Cello Suite no. 1 in G Major (viola arr.)
Brahms: Sonata in E-flat Major, op. 120, no. 2
free; tickets required
(703) 573-7328 (Ticketmaster)
http://www.loc.gov/rr/perform/concert/1112-schedule.html
Nov. 6 (6 p.m.)
Verizon Wireless Arena, Siegel Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Broad and Harrison streets, Richmond
Richmond Symphony
community musicians
Erin R. Freeman conducting
“Come and Play,” program TBA
free
(800) 514-3849 (Etix.com)
http://www.richmondsymphony.com/
Nov. 6 (3 p.m.)
Central United Methodist Church, 14 N. Lewis St., Staunton
Staunton Music Festival:
Carsten Schmidt & Jason Stell, harpsichord
lecture-performance of Bach’s “Well-Temprered Clavier,” Book 2
$15
(540) 569-0267
http://www.stauntonmusicfestival.com/
Nov. 6 (3 p.m.)
Roanoke Performing Arts Theatre, Orange Avenue at Williamson Road
Roanoke Symphony
David Stewart Wiley conducting
Glinka: “Russlan and Ludmilla” Overture
Mozart: “The Magic Flute” Overture
Mozart: Flute Concerto No. 2 in D major, K. 314
James Galway, flute
Mendelssohn: “Hebrides” Overture
Cimarosa: Concerto in G major for two flutes
James & Jeanne Galway
$21-$69
(540) 343-9127
http://www.rso.com/
Nov. 6 (8 p.m.)
Center for the Arts, George Mason University, Fairfax
Chamber Orchestra Kremlin
Misha Rachlevsky conducting
program TBA
$23-$46
(888) 945-2468 (Tickets.com)
http://cfa.gmu.edu/calendar/month/2011/11/
Nov. 6 (2 p.m.)
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington
Kennedy Center Chamber Players
Bach: Sonata No. 1 in B minor, BWV 1014, for violin and piano
Mendelssohn: Sonata in F major for violin and piano
Bach: Sonata No. 1 in G major, BWV 1027, for cello and piano
Mendelssohn: Piano Trio No. 2 in C minor, Op. 66
$35
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 8 (8 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
VCU Symphony Orchestra
Daniel Myssyk conducting
Mozart: Clarinet Concerto
Charles West, clarinet
Mozart: Requiem
soloists TBA
VCU Choral Arts Society
Commonwealth Singers
$5
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Nov. 8 (8 p.m.)
Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD
Garrick Ohlsson, piano
Handel: Keyboard Suite in B flat major
Brahms: “Handel Variations”
Chopin: Barcarolle, Op. 60
Chopin: Mazurka in C sharp minor, Op. 50, No. 3
Chopin: Sonata No. 3 in B minor
$23-$80
(202) 785-9727 (Washington Performing Arts Society)
http://www.wpas.org/
Nov. 10 (7 p.m.)
Nov. 11 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 12 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra
Leonard Slatkin conducting
Anna Clyne: “rewind”
Saint-Saëns: Cello Concerto No. 1
Gautier Capuçon, cello
Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 3
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 10 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 12 (7 p.m.)
Nov. 13 (2 p.m.)
Nov. 14 (7 p.m.)
Nov. 15 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 16 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 18 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 19 (7 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Opera House, Washington
Washington National Opera
Philippe Auguin conducting
Donizetti: “Lucia di Lammermoor”
Sarah Coburn/Lyubov Petrova (Lucia)
Saimir Pirgu/Alexey Dolgov (Edgardo)
Michael Chioldi/Brian Mulligan (Enrico)
Mirco Palazzi/Paolo Pecchioli (Raimondo)
David Alden, stage director
in Italian, English captions
$25-$300
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 11 (8 p.m.)
Ferguson Arts Center, Christopher Newport University, Newport News
Nov. 13 (2:30 p.m.)
Sandler Arts Center, 201 S. Market St., Virginia Beach
Nov. 19 (8 p.m.)
Chrysler Hall, 201 Brambleton Ave., Norfolk
Virginia Symphony
JoAnn Falletta conducting
Berlioz: “Harold in Italy”
Beverly Baker, viola
Tchaikovsky: “Francesca da Rimini”
Tchaikovsky: “Capriccio Italien”
$20-$87
(757) 892-6366
http://www.virginiasymphony.org/
Nov. 12 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 13 (3 p.m.)
Carpenter Theatre, Richmond CenterStage, Sixth and Grace streets
Richmond Symphony
Steven Smith conducting
Rossini: “The Barber of Seville” Overture
Poulenc: Gloria
Richmond Symphony Chorus
Erin R. Freeman directing
Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major
Anton Nel, piano
Stravinsky: “Jeu de Cartes”
$18-$73
(800) 514-3849 (Etix.com)
http://www.richmondsymphony.com/
Nov. 12 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 16 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 18 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 20 (2:30 p.m.)
Harrison Opera House, 160 E. Virginia Beach Boulevard, Norfolk
Virginia Opera
Gerald Steichen conducting
Humperdinck: “Hansel and Gretel”
Karin Mushegain (Hansel)
Julia Ebner (Gretel)
Margaret Gawrysiak (Witch/Gertrude)
Eric Greene (Peter)
Jason Abrams (Sandman)
Elizabeth Baldwin (Dew Fairy)
Kevin Newbury, stage director
in English and German, English captions
$25-$114
(866) 673-7282
http://www.vaopera.org/
Nov. 12 (8 p.m.)
Center for the Arts, George Mason University, Fairfax
Fairfax Symphony
Christopher Zimmerman conducting
Mozart: Symphony No. 10
Barber: Adagio for strings
Ginastera: Harp Concerto
Yolanda Kondonassis, harp
Barber: “First Essay for Orchestra”
Schubert: Symphony No. 5
$25-$55
(888) 945-2468 (Tickets.com)
http://www.fairfaxsymphony.org/
Nov. 13 (4 p.m.)
Bon Air Presbyterian Church, 9201 W. Huguenot Road, Richmond
Second Sunday South of the James:
Marjorie Wharton, mezzo-soprano
Russell Wilson, piano
opera arias, spirituals TBA
donation requested
(804) 272-7514
Nov. 13 (7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
UR Wind Ensemble
David Niethamer directing
Gordon Jacobs: “William Byrd Suuite”
other works TBA
free
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
Nov. 13 (3 p.m.)
Central United Methodist Church, 14 N. Lewis St., Staunton
Staunton Music Festival:
Carsten Schmidt, harpsichord
Bach: “The Well-Tempered Clavier,” Book 2
$20
(540) 569-0267
http://www.stauntonmusicfestival.com/
Nov. 13 (4 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
Choral Arts Society of Washington & orchestra
Norman Scribner conducting
Stravinsky: “Symphony of Psalms”
Bernstein: “Chichester Psalms”
Lauridsen: “Lux Aeterna”
Prokofiev: “Alexander Nevsky” (excerpts)
$15-$65
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 14 (7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
Takács Quartet
Janáĉek: Quartet No. 1 (“Intimate Letters”)
Britten: Quartet No. 1
Ravel: Quartet in F major
$38
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
Nov. 15 (8 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Tuesday Evening Concerts:
Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra
Jeanne Lamon, violin & director
Fasch: Orchestral Suite in D minor
Bach: Concerto in D minor, for three violins, after BWV 1063
Lully: “Phaeton” Suite
Bach: Violin Concerto in A minor, after BWV 1067
Vivaldi: Concerto in D minor for two oboes
$25-$30
(434) 924-3376
http://www.tecs.org/
Nov. 17 (7 p.m.)
Nov. 18 (1:30 p.m.)
Nov. 19 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
National Symphony Orchestra
Christoph Eschenbach conducting
Beethoven: Symphony No. 6 (“Pastoral”)
Brahms: Violin Concerto
Leonidas Kavakos, violin
$20-$85
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 18 (8 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
The Washington Chorus & orchestra
Julian Wachner conducting
Wachner: “Come My Dark Eyed One”
Mozart: Mass in C minor (“Great”)
Marie-Ève Munger, soprano
Arianna Zukerman, soprano
Arnold Rawls, tenor
David Kravitz, baritone
$15-$65
(800) 444-1324
http://www.kennedy-center.org/
Nov. 19 (7 p.m.)
River Road Church, Baptist, River and Ridge roads, Richmond
Nov. 20 (5 p.m.)
Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, Monument Avenue at Staples Mill Road, Richmond
James River Singers
David Pedersen directing
Amy Beach: Te Deum
René Clausen: “Three Whitman Settings from ‘Leaves of Grass’ ”
Stravinsky-Gesualdo: “Tres Cantiones Sacrae”
Barber: “Reincarnations”
Bernstein: “Make Our Garden Grow” from “Candide”
works by Billings, Ronald Staheli, Mack Wilberg
$15
(804) 233-9220
http://www.jamesriversingers.org/
Nov. 19 (7:30 p.m.)
Nov. 20 (4 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
VCU Opera
Melanie Kohn Day directing
singers TBA
arias and scenes by Mozart, Rossini, Bizet, Handel, others
Free
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Nov. 19 (8 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Nov. 20 (3 p.m.)
Monticello High School, 1400 Independence Way, Charlottesville
Charlottesville & University Symphony Orchestra
Stephen Czarkowski conducting
Bernstein: “Chichester Psalms”
Stravinsky: “Symphony of Psalms”
University Singers
Michael Slon directing
Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 2 (“Little Russian”)
$10-$38
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Nov. 19 (3 p.m.)
Kennedy Center Concert Hall, Washington
Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique
John Eliot Gardiner conducting
Beethoven: “Egmont” Overture
Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 (“Eroica”)
Beethoven: Symphony No. 5
$39-$100
(202) 785-9727 (Washington Performing Arts Society)
http://www.wpas.org/
Nov. 20 (7:30 p.m.)
All Saints Episcopal Church, River and Parham roads, Richmond
Richmond Concert Chorale
Grant Hellmers directing
Crystal Jonkman, organ
“In dulci jubilo,” Christmas works by Praetorius, Byrd, Vaughan Williams, Reger, others
donation requested
(804) 288-7811
Nov. 20 (8 p.m.)
Brooks Hall Commons, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Assaf Schellig, piano
works TBA by Israeli and Jewish composers
free
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Nov. 21 (8 p.m.)
Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
U.Va. Baroque Orchestra
David Sariti conducting
Palladian Chamber Orchestra
works by Handel, C.P.E. Bach, Rosenmuller, Muffat, Finzi
Free
(434) 924-3376
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/music/concertsevents/index.html
Nov. 25 (8 p.m.)
Nov. 27 (2:30 p.m.)
Carpenter Theatre, Richmond CenterStage, Sixth and Grace streets
Virginia Opera
Gerald Steichen conducting
Humperdinck: “Hansel and Gretel”
Karin Mushegain (Hansel)
Julia Ebner (Gretel)
Margaret Gawrysiak (Witch/Gertrude)
Eric Greene (Peter)
Jason Abrams (Sandman)
Elizabeth Baldwin (Dew Fairy)
Kevin Newbury, stage director
in English and German, English captions
$29-$111
(866) 673-7282
http://www.vaopera.org/
Nov. 26 (8 p.m.)
Center for the Arts, George Mason University, Fairfax
Chanticleer
“A Chanticleer Christmas,” program TBA
$24-$48
(888) 945-2468 (Tickets.com)
http://cfa.gmu.edu/calendar/month/2011/11/
Nov. 28 (7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
UR chamber ensembles
vocalists TBA
opera scenes TBA
Free
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/
Nov. 30 (7 p.m.)
Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Singleton Arts Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Park Avenue at Harrison Street, Richmond
VCU Symphonic Wind Ensemble
University Band
Terry Austin directing
Hindemith: Symphony in B flat major
Michael Schelle: “The End of the World”
Frescobaldi-Slocum: Toccata
$5
(804) 828-6776
http://www.vcu.edu/arts/music/dept/events/index.html
Nov. 30 (7:30 p.m.)
Camp Concert Hall, Modlin Arts Center, University of Richmond
UR Symphony Orchestra
Alexander Kordzaia conducting
winners of 2011 Concerto/Vocal Competition
works by Mozart, Dvořák, others
Free
(804) 289-8980
http://www.modlin.richmond.edu/