John Mellencamp’s No Better Than This Tour Making A Stop In Grand Rapids

Documentary Film Chronicling The Creation of The “No Better Than This” Album To Open The Show

Concert dates for the next leg of John Mellencamp’s No Better Than This Tour, that began last year in Indiana, have just been announced with a performance set this November 1st at DeVos Performance Hall at 7PM. Tickets go on sale Friday, August 5th at 10am. Prices are $42, $72, $92 and $125. Tickets will be available at the Van Andel Arena box office, Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone: 800-745-3000. Tickets will also be available at the DeVos Place box office during the on-sale and following the on-sale, beginning August 8, 2011.

Mellencamp’s No Better Than This Tour is just back from a run of dates in Ireland, England, Germany, France, Netherlands, Denmark, Switzerland and Italy. The 17-date tour begins on October 25 at Boston’s Citi Performing Arts Center Wang Theater and will be making a stop in Savannah, GA at the Johnny Mercer Theater on November 11.

This Savannah show is of extra significance in light of the fact that sessions for Mellencamp’s critically acclaimed “No Better Than This” album began less than half a mile away at Savannah’s First African Baptist Church. Mellencamp and producer T Bone Burnett would go on to record the rest of the album at Sun Studio in Memphis and in Room 414 of San Antonio's Gunter Hotel where Robert Johnson recorded in 1936. The sessions were documented on a 55-year-old mono tape recorder using just one vintage microphone at each location.

As a reflection of the diversity of styles and material that have been a hallmark of Mellencamp's eclectic career, the No Better Than This concerts are formatted into three segments. These showcase John Mellencamp in an acoustic context, fronting a small combo recalling blues/country and rockabilly roots and with his full rock band. Musicians backing Mellencamp include Michael Wanchic (guitar), Andy York (guitar), Miriam Sturm (violin), John Gunnell (electric and upright bass), Dane Clark (drums and percussion) and Troye Kinnett (accordion/keyboards).

Each of the No Better Than This tour dates will be preceded by a screening of It’s About You, the documentary by filmmakers Kurt and Ian Markus, shot on Super 8, over the course of 2009’s Bob Dylan-John Mellencamp-Willie Nelson tour of minor league baseball stadiums. The hour-long film, both a SXSW Film Festival and Nashville Film Festival selection, chronicles the creation of the No Better Than This album that was recorded on that tour’s off days. The film will be shown at 7 PM at each of the No Better Than This Tour venues so ticket holders are advised to arrive in time to see it.

As was the case with its album namesake, No Better Than This concerts have been the subject of an impressive number of laudatory reviews. A selection of excerpts from those follows. “Mellencamp gloriously proved that not only is he one of America’s treasures, an incredible singer-songwriter and guitarist, he’s also a master at putting together a set.” - Dallas Morning News:

“…A concert that seesawed between facing mortality — full of songs about death — and a stubborn determination to live fully.” - New York Times

“...He maintains remarkable vocal strength. It's an instrument that's perfectly suited to a catalogue of songs that aim to provide a voice to a cast of uncelebrated working-class figures.” - Richmond Times-Dispatch

“His voice, grainy and loaded with gravitas, remains as compelling and as affective as it was the day he recorded ‘Pink Houses’ in 1983. It’s a voice that’s as distinctive as any of his arguably more famous peers, from Dylan to Springsteen to Petty, and like those artists, it’s attached to a man who has kept integrity high on his priority list. Johnny Cash once referred to him as one of the ten best songwriters, and Mellencamp’s newer material didn’t disappoint in a live setting.” - American Songwriter

“..it was a generous show, giving the fans what they wanted, but also allowing the leader to indulge in a more old-school style.” - St Paul Pioneer Press

“This concert was superb from beginning to end, with Mellencamp and his crack band taking a stripped down, neo-folk approach until the last quarter, when he unleashed his rock 'n' roll persona. I'm loath to call anything the best, but if I have to choose, this was the concert of the year in Pittsburgh.” - Pittsburgh Tribune

Announcing the Broadway Grand Rapids 2011-2012 Season

SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW

The 2011-2012 season for Broadway Grand Rapids (BGR) raises the curtain on an impressive new level of performance with show-stopping blockbusters including the 25th Anniversary production of Les Misérables and the high-flying family favorite, Mary Poppins.

The 5-Show Subscription Series is Come Fly Away, Irving Berlin's White Christmas, Les Misérables, Million Dollar Quartet, and Mary Poppins. In addition to the subscription series BGR will also offer special engagements of Under the Streetlamp, The Addams Family and Cats. All performances are at DeVos Performance Hall in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. Season tickets are available now at up to 30% off 5-show packages which start as low as $128.

Subscribe today and get great shows, great dates & great rates!

5-Show Subscription Series

Come Fly Away

October 4-9, 2011

Come Fly Away is the new Broadway musical that brings together the legendary music of Frank Sinatra and the creative vision of Tony Award-winner Twyla Tharp (Movin’ Out). This one-of-a-kind experience combines the seductive vocals of “Ol’ Blue Eyes” with the sizzling sound of a live on-stage big band and the visceral thrill of Tharp’s choreography. As 15 of the world’s best dancers tell the story of four couples falling in and out of love, you will experience the exhilaration of a first kiss, the excitement of a first dance, and the bittersweet moments of a first good-bye in a world of sparkling romances and astonishing beauty. Come Fly Away is a co-presentation of Broadway Grand Rapids and Grand Rapids Ballet Company.

Irving Berlin's White Christmas

November 15-20, 2011

Get ready to discover a delightful new show that’s as fresh and rare as newly fallen snow! The classic holiday tradition White Christmas comes to the stage at last, as a brand new Irving Berlin musical direct from Broadway and opening at DeVos Performance Hall this November. Irving Berlin’s White Christmas tells the story of two showbiz buddies putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and finding their perfect mates in the bargain. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas promises to be a merry and bright theatrical experience for the whole family!

Les Misérables

November 29-December 4, 2011

Dream the dream. Cameron Mackintosh presents a brand new 25th anniversary production of Boubill and Schönberg’s legendary musical, Les Misérables, with glorious new staging and dazzling reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo. This new production has been acclaimed by critics, fans and new audiences and is breaking box office records wherever it goes. The New York Times calls this Les Misérables “an unquestionably spectacular production from start to finish.” The London Times hails the new show “a five star hit, astonishingly powerful.” Les Misérables is a co-presentation of Broadway Grand Rapids and Grand Rapids Ballet Company.

Million Dollar Quartet

January 17-22, 2012

Million Dollar Quartet is the smash hit Broadway musical, inspired by the true story of the famed recording session that brought together rock 'n' roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time. On December 4, 1956, these four young musicians were gathered by Sam Phillips, the “Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll” at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions of all time. Million Dollar Quartet brings that legendary night to life with an irresistable tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal and celebrations featuring a score of rock hits including "Blue Suede Shoes," "Fever," "That's All Right," "Sixteen Tons," "Great Balls of Fire," "Walk the Line," "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On," "Who Do You Love?," "Matchbox," "Folsom Prison Blues," "Hound Dog" and more.

Disney & Cameron Mackintosh present Mary Poppins

February 21-26, 2012

Mary Poppins is bringing its own brand of Broadway magic to theaters across the country, which has Variety raving, “This is the rare touring production that over-delivers on every level!” Featuring the irresistable story and unforgettable songs from one of the most popular Disney films of all time, plus brand-new breathtaking dance numbers and spectacular stage-craft, Mary Poppins is everything you could ever want in a hit Broadway show! So get swept up in the fun of this high-flying musical the New York Post gives four out of four stars and calls “a perfect piece of musical theater.”

Special Events available to Season Ticket Holders before the General Public

Under the Streetlamp

October 16, 2011

Rock and Roll is here to stay as recent leading cast members of the Tony Award-winning smash hit Jersey Boys deliver the sounds of the sixties in an electrifying evening of unforgettable hits. You’re gonna hear-some-of-that-rock-and-roll-music, as well as doo-wop ditties, Motown melodies, and cool Rat Pack favorites. Amazingly, these four guys, each a gifted performer, met playing in a band onstage and later went on to form a real rock sensation of their very own. They have thrilled sold-out houses throughout the country and each carries with him an impressive list of credits. Between them, they have appeared on Broadway, in feature films, and on your television. Under the Streetlamp offers audiences the rare opportunity to get to know these rising stars of stage and screen as they relate hilarious and touching stories of a life lived in show business. Complete with an orchestra comprised of world-class jazz musicians, Under the Streetlamp is clean outta sight!

The Addams Family

May 22-26, 2012

The weird and wonderful family comes to devilishly delightful life in The Addams Family. This magnificently macabre new musical comedy is created by Jersey Boys authors Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice. This is definitely not the same old song and dance. It’s every parent’s nightmare. Your little girl has suddenly become a young woman, and what’s worse, has fallen deliriously in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. Yes, Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has a “normal” boyfriend, and for parents Gomez and Morticia, this shocking development will turn the Addams house downside up. It’s a family portrait that’s completely off the wall.

Cats

June 15-17, 2012

There's no better way to introduce your family to the wonders of live theatre than with the magic, the mystery, the memory of Cats. What began as a musical about cats after Andrew Lloyd Webber picked up a book of poems in an airport bookshop has become one of the longest running shows in Broadway’s history. Winner of seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, Cats features 20 of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s timeless melodies, including the hit song, “Memory.”

SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Broadway Grand Rapids offers a 5-Show Subscription package that offers up to 30% off individual ticket prices, discounts on Special Events, advance ticket purchasing before the general public for all presentations, easy payment plans, free lost-ticket replacement, no-fee ticket exchanges, personalized service, exclusive privileges, and the same reserved seats for each show. The Subscription Series package price ranges from $128 to $353, depending on seating section and performance day and time. The 2011-2012 Subscription Series may be renewed or purchased from Broadway Grand Rapids by calling 616-235-6285, in person at 122 Lyon Street NW in downtown Grand Rapids or by mail using the order form which can be downloaded at www.BroadwayGrandRapids.com. BGR office hours are 9 to 5 Monday through Thursday, and 9 to 4 on Fridays. The subscription renewal deadline is Friday, May 13th, 2011.

FOR BROADWAY GRAND RAPIDS’ GROUP DISCOUNTS, EMAIL groupsales@smggr.com OR CALL 616.742.6185.

All performances are at DeVos Performance Hall located at 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: www.BroadwayGrandRapids.com

Divas take Center Stage as the Grand Rapids Symphony Presents a “Wicked” Evening of Broadway Hits and Popular Favorites

Julia Murney and Jennifer Laura Thompson, stars of the smash Broadway hit “Wicked,” will join the Grand Rapids Symphony for a fantastic concert of diva showstoppers May 13-15. New York Pops Music Director Steven Reineke will lead the Grammy-nominated orchestra as guest conductor in a return engagement to DeVos Performance Hall that will showcase his exceptional artistry and boundless enthusiasm. “Wicked Divas” is this season’s final Fox Motors Pops concert and will feature popular favorites from “Wicked,” “The Wizard of Oz,” “Chicago” and “My Fair Lady,” among others. Performances will be held at 8 p.m. on Friday, May 13 and Saturday, May 14, and at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 15.

“I am looking forward to being back on the podium with the Grand Rapids Symphony conducting ‘Wicked Divas,’ with the stars from the hit Broadway musical,” Reineke explained. “I have put together a true diva tribute covering all styles of music and many favorite selections from pop, Broadway, Hollywood and more. It is sure to be a wicked fun evening of great music.”

Julia Murney has played the misunderstood wicked witch, Elphaba, on Broadway and on the national tour of “Wicked.” Her other New York shows including Andrew Lippia’s “The Wild Party,” for which she earned a Drama Desk nomination, as well as “Lennon,” “Crimes of the Heart” and others. From the Kennedy Center and Town Hall, she has also performed regionally with the Philly Pops and Cincinnati Pops. Murney also has a number of television credits, including “30 Rock,” “Sex and the City,” “NYPD Blue” and all three “Law and Orders.”

A native of Southfield and University of Michigan graduate, Jennifer Laura Thompson has played Glinda, the good witch, in “Wicked” on Broadway. She was nominated for a Tony Award for her role in “Urinetown,” and also has performed in “Lend Me a Tenor,” “Footloose” and the premier of “Little Miss Sunshine.” She has numerous off-Broadway roles to her credit, as well as appearances with the Atlanta Symphony, Toronto Symphony and others.

Murney and Thompson will sing favorites such as “I Could Have Danced All Night” from “My Fair Lady,” “My Heart Will Go On” from “Titanic” and, of course, “Defying Gravity” from “Wicked.” These classic songs will be interspersed with arrangements from Reineke such as “I Hear A Symphony: Symphonic Sounds of Diana Ross.”

One of the most sought-after pops conductors, composers and arrangers, Reineke was appointed principal pops conductor to the National Symphony Orchestra this season. His guest conducting appearances have included the Hollywood Bowl, where he performed with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and multi-faceted entertainer Wayne Brady, as well as with orchestras in Detroit, Houston, Toronto and Baltimore, among others. He has also collaborated with rock legend Peter Frampton.

“Our Broadway show is always some of the most exciting and popular music that we perform in the Fox Motors Pops Series,” said Associate Conductor John Varineau. “I am excited that we are featuring two of the leading ladies from the smash hit, ‘Wicked,’ along with the return of the fantastically talented conductor Steven Reineke.

“This will be an entire evening of showstoppers from Broadway and film, a perfect way to end our fantastic season of the Fox Motors Pops.”

Tickets are available at the DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena box offices, weekdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or on the day of the concert at DeVos Performance Hall three hours prior to the performance. Tickets may also be purchased through Ticketmaster at 1.800.745.3000, online at ticketmaster.com, or in person at Ticketmaster outlets including D&W Fresh Market and select Family Fare locations.

To learn more about the Grand Rapids Symphony, please visit http://www.grsymphony.org/.

Grand Rapids Symphony Welcomes Jim Brickman, America’s Best-Selling Contemporary Solo Pianist, April 12

The Grand Rapids Symphony welcomes pianist Jim Brickman for a single performance on Tuesday, April 12, at 7:30 p.m. in DeVos Performance Hall.

With six Gold and Platinum albums to his credit, Brickman will perform with the Grammy®-nominated Symphony to present an evening of popular romantic piano and orchestral music. Brickman, who has collaborated with many gifted musical artists, has been said to revolutionize the sound of solo piano with his pop-style instrumentals.

The concert is part of the SymphonicBoom series, which is designed to bring world-class entertainers and outside-the-box programming to West Michigan.

Associate Conductor John Varineau will lead the Symphony in the performance featuring Brickman, who is the best-selling contemporary solo pianist in America. The program will include many of his chart-topping hits, including “Crossroads,” “If You Believe,” “Hero’s Dream,” “Valentine” and “The Gift.”

“We are delighted to welcome Jim Brickman for his first performance with the Grand Rapids Symphony,” Varineau said. “His lush, expressive playing pairs perfectly with symphonic music. He is a tremendously engaging performer who truly connects with his audience through his music. It should be an outstanding evening.”

With the release of his debut album “No Words” in 1984, Brickman’s signature style of playing and songwriting have established him as “America’s romantic piano sensation.” In addition to his two Grammy nominations and best-selling albums, he has 28 charted radio hits, recently tying for most number one CDs on Billboard’s New Age chart.

Brickman regularly collaborates with chart-topping performers in a wide range of musical genres, from Martina McBride and Lady Antbellum to Carly Simon and Herb Alpert. His well-received 2010 album, “Home,” featured an eclectic mix of performers, including American Idol Matt Giraud, Australian pop star Delta Goodrem and award-winning country singer Ty Herndon.

Brickman tours extensively, performing more than 125 concerts each year. In addition to his touring schedule, he has taped four concert specials for PBS, written two best-selling books and supported charity organizations focused on children. He also hosts a weekly radio show, “Your Weekend.”

Tickets start at $32.Tickets are available at the DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena box offices, weekdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or on the day of the concert two hours prior to the performance. Tickets may also be purchased through ticketmaster.com, 800/982-2787, online at www.grsymphony.org, or in person at Ticketmaster outlets: select D&W Fresh Market, Family Fare Stores and WalMart. Tickets purchased at these locations will include a Ticketmaster service fee.

New Opportunity Available to Enjoy Betty White’s Program in Grand Rapids

Gilda's LaughFest to offer simulcast of Betty White's sold out program

Tickets are on sale for individuals interested in viewing a simulcast of Betty White's program during Gilda's Club Grand Rapids 10th Anniversary Celebration on Tuesday, March 15. Individual tickets for the simulcast cost $12.50 and will be available at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000; tickets are also available at the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place box offices.

Individuals who purchase tickets to the simulcast will be entertained by on-stage guests, including Gilda's LaughFest Laughter Nanny Tim Cusack, beginning at 7:45 p.m. inside DeVos Performance Hall. White's simulcast performance will begin at approximately 8:20 p.m.

A word from the Opera singer who plays Manon Lescaut & her love, on and off stage

It was the wild success of this, Puccini’s third opera that launched the string of masterworks that made him the most popular composer in history. While traveling to a convent where she is being sent by her family, Manon Lescaut attracts the attentions of France’s very wealthy Royal Tax Collector. She escapes his clutches with the help of her true love, a handsome young student. But, the allure of living in luxury soon overwhelms her and she abandons love for riches. Her attempt to return to her true love comes, however, at the incalculable cost of deportment and her tragic demise in the New World. Puccini’s ravishing and poignant music will sweep you away with its rich and emotional power!

Opera Grand Rapids presents Puccini's Manon Lescaut performs at DeVos Performance Hall, February 11th & 12th at 7:30 PM! Tickets are $20-$94 and are available through ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets, the DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena box offices, or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

To hear a word from the Opera singers whom play Manon Lescaut and the wealthy Royal Tax Collector, please follow this link: Fox 17, Tim Doty interview.

Musicians Jeff Beck, LeAnn Rimes, Seal, and more Announced as Additional Performers to honor Barbra Streisand as 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year

Performances by multi-GRAMMY^®-winning artists Tony Bennett, Seal, Donna Summer, BeBe Winans, and Stevie Wonder; multi-GRAMMY-winning artists and current GRAMMY nominees Jeff Beck whom is nominated for “I Put a Spell on You” from the Emotion and Commotion Track and Herbie Hancock; two-time-GRAMMY-winning artist and current GRAMMY nominee LeAnn Rimes; two-time GRAMMY winner Diana Krall; GRAMMY-winner and current GRAMMY nominee Barry Manilow; artist and member of the GRAMMY-nominated "Promises, Promises" cast album Kristin Chenoweth; artists and members of the GRAMMY-nominated "Glee" cast Lea Michele, Matthew Morrison and Darren Criss; and artist Nikki Yanofsky. Ms. Streisand, a multi-GRAMMY-winning artist and current GRAMMY nominee, will close the evening with her own special performance.

Attendees include President/CEO of MusiCares^® and The Recording Academy^® Neil Portnow, and MusiCares Foundation Board Chair Paul Caine and Board Chair Emeritus John Branca. Tribute co-chairs are Marilyn and Alan Bergman, Marty Erlichman, Jay Landers, Ron Meyer, and L. Lee Phillips. Jay Landers and Phil Ramone are the evening's musical directors. Past MusiCares Person of the Year honorees include: Tony Bennett, Bono, Natalie Cole, Phil Collins, David Crosby, Neil Diamond, Gloria Estefan, Aretha Franklin, Don Henley, Billy Joel, Elton John, Quincy Jones, Luciano Pavarotti, Bonnie Raitt, Paul Simon, Sting, James Taylor, Brian Wilson, Stevie Wonder, and Neil Young. In addition, a host of celebrities, along with prominent music industry and entertainment executives, are scheduled to attend.

Iconic artist and philanthropist Barbra Streisand will be honored as the 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year at a special event celebrating her exceptional artistic achievements as well as her philanthropic work. Proceeds from the annual Person of the Year tribute — now in its 21st year — provide essential support for MusiCares, which ensures that music people have a place to turn in times of financial, medical and personal need.

The 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year gala will begin with a cocktail reception and silent auction sponsored by the Starkey Hearing Foundation that will offer an exclusive and unparalleled selection of luxury items, VIP experiences and one-of-a-kind celebrity memorabilia for bidding guests. The auction will be followed by a gala dinner sponsored by MasterCard, and a star-studded tribute concert sponsored by Acura/ELS. The MusiCares Person of the Year tribute is one of the most prestigious events held during GRAMMY Week. The celebration culminates with the 53rd Annual GRAMMY Awards on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011, at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles. The telecast will be broadcast live on the CBS Television Network at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

For more information on the Grammys, please visit www.grammy.com.

Grand Rapids Symphony Presents an Evening of Passion and Romance

Music lovers will be able to hear the musical passion when the Grand Rapids Symphony presents a special evening of romantic works close to Valentine’s on Friday, Feb. 18 and Saturday, Feb 19, at 8 p.m., in DeVos Performance Hall.

Tickets start at $18 and are available at the Symphony office, weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 300 Ottawa NW, Suite 100, (located across from the Calder), or by calling 616/454-9451, Ext. 4. (Phone orders will be charged a $2 per ticket service fee, with a $12 maximum.) Tickets are available at the DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena Box Offices, weekdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or on the day of the concert two hours prior to the performance. Tickets may also be purchased through Ticketmaster, at ticketmaster.com, 1-800-982-2787, online at www.grsymphony.org, or in person at Ticketmaster outlets: select D&W Fresh Market, Family Fare Stores and Walmart. Student Passport tickets are available for this concert.

Guest conductor Christoph Campestrini will lead the Grand Rapids Symphony in the concerts, which will feature a performance of Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 by accomplished Slovenian pianist Dubravka Tomsic. Other musical highlights will include selections from two of the most romantic love stories ever told: “Tristan and Isolde” and “Daphnis and Chloe.” These concerts are part of the Richard and Helen DeVos Classical Series.

The first half of the program will feature Dimitri Shostakovich’s “Festive Overture” and Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No 1. After being condemned for the second time by the Soviet regime in 1948, Shostakovich had all but given up composing. But a year later the Bolshoi Theater found itself without a new composition celebrating the 37^th anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution, so it turned to Shostakovich. He penned the triumphant “Festive Overture” in just three days, and it has since become one of the most popular orchestral and symphonic wind overtures ever written.

Written around 1874, Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 was initially dedicated to pianist Nikolay Rubinstein, but it was not well received and even rejected by Rubinstein. Scratching out Rubinstein’s name from the score, Tchaikovsky rededicated it to Hans von Bülow, who commented that “the ideas are so original, so noble, so powerful, and the details so interesting.” To this day its thundering presence is one of the most loved and popular of any work.

The concert’s second half will feature two romantic pieces loved the world over: the magical musical stories of legendary lovers Tristan and Isolde, and Daphnis and Chloe.

Richard Wagner’s “Prelude and Liebestod,” from his opera “Tristan and Isolde,” is the opening to a tale of intense romantic yearning written while the composer was in the throes of an affair. It tells the story of Tristan, who retrieves Isolde for his king but inevitably ends up falling in love with her. The Prelude consists of never-resolving harmonies that echo the beautiful longing of the lovers, which is taken over by Liebestod (Love-death) that contains the melodic material from the famous second act duet between Tristan and Isolde.

Maurice Ravel’s Suite No. 2 from “Daphnis and Chloe” will complete the program. Originally commissioned by Sergy Dyagilev and written as a ballet, “Daphnis and Chloe” tells the story of two lovers who mime the ancient story of “Pan and Syrinx,” in which Syrinx rejects the declared love of Pan. The story ends happily with Chloe falling into her lover’s arms, and a joyous tumult and wild dance ensues. Although the ballet was not originally considered great success, the music remains some of the most beautiful and evocative of the 20^th century and is a mainstay of the virtuoso orchestral repertoire.

Slovenian pianist Dubravka Tomsic gave her first public recital at age five and has since given more than 4,000 performances worldwide. She moved to New York when she was 12 and enrolled at the Juilliard School. Although considered a pianist of legendary stature in many countries, it was not until 1989, after a hiatus of almost 30 years, that she was reintroduced to American audiences. She has been performing and teaching to great acclaim ever since.