New Orford a unique treat

trevor.kenney — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 21:27:08 +0000

"Ravishing beautiful tone" and "extraordinary technical skills and musicianship" are just a few of the accolades critics heap on the New Orford String Quartet. Brilliant and refined, the New Orford String Quartet has risen to national acclaim with sold out concerts across the country and Lethbridge audiences have their opportunity to hear the group on Saturday, Dec. 3 in a special 2 p.m. matinee performance.

The ensemble, which was formed in 2009, is comprised by either former or current principal members of the Montreal and Toronto Symphony Orchestras, including Jonathan Crow (violin), Andrew Wan (violin), Eric Nowlin (viola) and Brian Manker (cello).

"There is a long history of performance associated with the New Orford String Quartet, stemming back to its previous incarnation as the Orford String Quartet," says Nick Sullivan, Faculty Artists and Friends co-coordinator. "Aside from the amazing musicianship of the ensemble, the chance to hear performers that are also current or former members of some of the biggest orchestras in Canada is an opportunity that cannot be missed."

The concert includes music by Sokolovic, Beethoven, Brahms as well as contemporary work. In addition, Lethbridge violinist Aaron Au joins the quartet for a compelling performance of Brahms' String Quartet op. 111 in G Major.

To reserve seats for this rare and exciting performance, visit the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Box Office (open Monday to Friday, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., or call 403-329-2616). Tickets are $15 regular, $10 for seniors/students.

Expect anything but a Little Solemn Mass

trevor.kenney — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 21:08:19 +0000

Petite Messe Solonnelle translates as Little Solemn Mass.

"However, it's not little and it's not solemn!," says Dr. Janet Youngdahl, Faculty Artists and Friends Series
co-coordinator.
"Rossini's Petite Messe Solennelle is actually huge and bombastic. Written in 1863, this was Rossini's last major composition and it contains a lot of wit and humour not found in the usual style of religious music of the time."

Audiences can hear for themselves as an ensemble of music faculty, students and alumni come together to perform Rossini Petite Messe Solennelle in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Recital Hall, Oct. 15 at 8 p.m.

Written for 12 voices and piano, Youngdahl says the ensemble is performing the piece in the setting for which it was intended.

"The Petite Messe Solennelle is a curious cross between opera and sacred music. It was not written to be performed in the church. The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Recital Hall is the perfect venue for this piece."

In addition to Youngdahl (soprano), Dr. Blaine Hendsbee (tenor) and Dr. Sandra Stringer (mezzo-soprano), both from the U of L's music department are also performing. Joining them are Professor Emeritus Dr. George Evelyn (bass-baritone), alumni Kade Hogg (tenor) and Audrina Steciw (soprano), as well as a selection of talented senior students. Audiences will also be introduced to the newest music faculty member, pianist, Dr. Carolyn Herrington.

Co-coordinator Nick Sullivan emphasizes that this is a rare opportunity for audiences to see this work performed live. He adds that audiences of the Faculty Artists and Friends Series can look forward to an entire season of unique and extraordinary music.

"Our programs are built on pieces not often heard. Rossini Petite Messe Solonnelle is one of those rare live performances you can't miss. From the New Orford String Quartet on Dec. 3, to Blaine Hendsbee on Jan. 14 and Piano PIANISSIMO on Mar. 17, the series presents a lineup of unique repertoire, performed by our talented faculty and exceptional guest artists," says Sullivan.

For tickets to Rossini Petite Messe Solennelle, visit the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Box Office, Monday through Friday, 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., or call 403-329-2616. Individual tickets are $15 regular, $10 seniors/students.

UNews - New Orford String Quartet

New Orford a unique treat

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Expect anything but a Little Solemn Mass

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