We've already enjoyed Rachmaninoff's First and Second Piano Concertos... and you know what they say — good things come in threes. This Wednesday at 9 p.m., tune in to WHRO-FM’s “A Local Touch – Music with a Virginia Connection” because it’s time for the Third.
And what a “third” we have this week! Rachmaninoff’s Third Piano Concerto was the very piece that earned Olga Kern the Gold Medal at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition back in 2001. And what better occasion to play it again than the celebration of Rachmaninoff’s 150th anniversary? Pianist Olga Kern joined the Virginia Symphony Orchestra for a powerful performance of this masterpiece. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a rendition full of technical brilliance and emotional depth — a performance that truly captures the romantic soul of this work.
Our listeners will also be treated to a special piece composed by William Byrd in 1593: “Mass for Five Voices.” The Tallis Scholars — coming to Norfolk this month — under the direction of Peter Phillips, perform this work with purity and clarity. This mass is considered one of the pinnacles of the sacred British Renaissance, reflecting both spiritual intensity and exquisite vocal craftsmanship.
We'll also have the chance to enjoy “Vesperae de Dominica,” by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, performed by the Choir and Orchestra of the Cathedral of St. Thomas More, under the direction of Haig Mardirosian. This Cathedral, located in Arlington, has a rich tradition of sacred music, connecting local performers to the universal beauty of Mozart's sacred repertoire.
And speaking of music deeply rooted in Virginia — we’ll listen to “I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes,” by Adolphus Hailstork. Hailstork, who lives and works in Norfolk, is one of America’s leading contemporary composers. This moving choral piece, based on Psalm 121, will be performed by the Williamsburg Choral Guild and Orchestra, under the direction of Genevieve McGiffert.
Finally, we’ll close the program with a timeless classic: J. S. Bach’s Cello Suite No. 2, arranged for viola, performed by Zachary Carretin, and produced by Virginia-based Sono Luminus label. The warm, intimate sound of the viola brings a new color to this introspective and beloved work.
Don’t miss out on this incredible lineup! Tune in to WHRO-FM 90.3 this Wednesday at 9 p.m., or listen online through our Media Player, and immerse yourself in a night of music that connects Virginia to the world.
