In this episode, our host, Marc Zyla, sits down with Brian Baxter to explore the highly anticipated opening concert of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra’s (QCSO) "Up Close" series.
Baxter shares exciting details about the featured performer, Naha Greenholtz, the concertmaster of QCSO, who will grace the stage with her solo recital on Sunday, September 15th, at the Rock Island Library's Watts Midtown Branch. Greenholtz is known for her thoughtful curation of the "Up Close" series, which has quickly become a favorite among concertgoers. The program for this concert promises to be a memorable experience, highlighting the works of three iconic composers: Angel Lam, George Gershwin, and Sergey Prokofiev. With Baxter's vivid descriptions, you'll gain insight into why Lam's ethereal "Mist of the Scented Harbor," Gershwin's soulful tunes from "Porgy and Bess," and Prokofiev's emotionally charged Violin Sonatas resonate so deeply with audiences.
This episode also dives into the unique venue for the concert, a repurposed space within the Rock Island Library that boasts remarkable acoustics, making it an ideal setting for intimate performances. Baxter and Zyla take a moment to discuss the significance of this new collaboration between the QCSO and the library, which has created a culturally rich environment for the community. Additionally, Baxter highlights the QCSO's connection to composer Angel Lam, who is part of a groundbreaking commissioning consortium that champions female composers. You'll learn about Lam's powerful upcoming piece, "Please Let There Be a Paradise," commissioned for the QCSO, and hear anecdotes from her previous visits to the Quad Cities.
Whether you're an aficionado of classical music or simply looking to expand your cultural horizons, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to attend the upcoming concert and explore the rich tapestry of music and community engagement in the Quad Cities. Tune in for a captivating conversation that celebrates the art of music and the vibrant connections it creates!
More Information on the Up Close series: www.qcso.org
