Monday, August 1 — Camerata Chicago
Founded in 2003 by conductor Drostan Hall, Camerata Chicago is a chamber orchestra performing the rich tapestry of diverse repertoire that includes newly commissioned works. Camerata Chicago is firmly established as one of the finest chamber orchestras on the world stage and has performed frequently on WFMT.
Music
Concerto grosso in C major, Alexander’s Feast by George Frideric Handel
Tuesday, August 2 — James Stephenson
Leading American orchestras, instrumentalists, and wind ensembles around the world have performed the music of Chicago-based composer James Stephenson. A formal sense of melody and tonality characterize his music, each embedded in a contemporary soundscape. These qualities, coupled with the composer’s keen ability to write to each occasion, have led to a steady stream of commissions and ongoing projects.
Music
Fantasie by James Stephenson
Wednesday, August 3 —Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concert: Zhu Wang
Praised as “a thoughtful, sensitive performer” who “balanced lyrical warmth and crisp clarity” (New York Times), pianist Zhu Wang was awarded First Prize in the 2020 Young Concert Artists International Auditions. He has performed all over the world in China, Italy, Poland, Japan, and the United States.
Music of Franz Schubert, Louis Moreau Gottschalk, Zhang Zhao, and Igor Stravinsky
Thursday, August 4 — Rachel Barton Pine and Ars Antigua
The seductively charming sound of the Baroque-era viola d’amore takes center stage in this recording with violinist Rachel Barton Pine and the Chicago-based period instrument ensemble Ars Antigua. They perform all eight of Antonio Vivaldi’s virtuosic concertos for viola d’amore, an unusual instrument of the violin family.
Music
Viola d’amore and Lute Concerto in D minor, R. 540 by Antonio Vivaldi
Friday, August 5 – Impromptu Encore: Till Fellner
Till Fellner’s international career began in 1993 with the first prize at the renowned Clara Haskil Competition in Switzerland. Since then, he has been a sought-after guest at the major orchestras and music centers of Europe, the United States, and Japan, as well as at numerous festivals. Fellner performed live on WFMT in 2016.
Music of Ludwig van Beethoven and Robert Schumann