First Thursday Salons: Celebrate a Sparkling New Year with the Camilla Duo
$25-$30
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart — Violin Sonata No. 32 in B-flat major, K. 454
George Gershwin — Porgy and Bess Medley
Igor Frolov — Selected works
Janny Joo, violin
April Sun, piano
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Violin Sonata No. 32 in B-flat major, K.454
Gabriel Fauré – Violin Sonata No. 1 in A major, Op. 13
George Gershwin, arr. Igor Frolov – Porgy and Bess Medley
Explore a kaleidoscope of musical sounds and traditions with this New Year celebration of playful and dramatic classical compositions performed by the Camilla Duo.
The night begins with Mozart’s dramatic, achingly beautiful, yet playful Sonata K. 454. The piece transports the listener back to 1700’s Vienna where listeners watched concerts and operas set in sparkling ballrooms and gold-clad concert halls. It was written for the Viennese debut of a young female virtuoso, incredibly rare at that time. She was also a trained opera singer with a dramatic flair. It embodies all the aspects of youthful exuberance.
Then we dive headfirst into Fauré’s Paris of the late 1800’s. Much like the Mozart selection, Fauré’s first sonata was dedicated to yet another accomplished woman, Pauline Viardot, a celebrated opera singer. She was considered the grand diva of her time. This work flawlessly blends the contemporary music of the time with music from the past, sprinkling in sounds of medieval times. Saint-Saens said that there’s “a magic float[ing] above everything” when he heard this sonata. It invites the listener to experience a world full of shimmering and swirling melodies and harmonies, reflective of 19th century Paris.
The final piece transports us to Catfish Row on the waterfront of Charleston, SC during the 1900s. Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess is one of the most beloved American operas, full of vibrant music, dancing, love, and heartbreak. The medley is arranged by Igor Frolov and includes all the opera’s greatest hits including “Summertime”, “It Ain’t Necessarily So”, and “Bess You Is My Woman Now,” among others.
We hope you enjoy experiencing the elegance of Mozart’s Vienna, the swirling magic of Fauré’s Paris, and the jazzy vibrancy of Gershwin’s Charleston during tonight’s concert!
About the Series
First Thursday Salons are inspired by a 19th century tradition of informal and intimate performances at home. Audiences are encouraged to wear comfortable attire, bring their friends, and engage in a highly social and interactive musical experience. The series features communal seating at sophisticated tables with beer and wine bar service available in the hall and throughout each performance. Snacks and other non-alcoholic beverages are also available.
About the Bar
In celebration of the new year, bubbly drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) will be available for purchase, along with special dessert offerings.
Tickets: $25 online, $30 at the door. Fees apply for online purchases.