A renowned guest music director will present an evening of masterpieces by Bach, Boccerini, Debussy, Schubert, and Vivaldi. The highlight will be Mozart’s Piano concerto No. 21, also known as “Elvira Madigan” due to the film of that name.
By Missouri Life
Photos by International Center for Music
Treat your Valentine to a music-filled evening of popular classical favorites at 7:30 p.m. February 9th in the impressive Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel at Park University, at 8700 NW River Park Drive in Parkville.
This special Valentine’s concert features the Park International Center for Music’s Orchestra under the direction of guest conductor Timothy Hankewich. Hanewich has led acclaimed performances across North America and Europe, and is the director of Orchestra Iowa, which he has guided through a transformative period. His career includes serving as the Resident Conductor of the Kansas City Symphony, and he won The Aspen conducting award in 1997.
The concert will begin with the ethereal second movement of Bach’s Third Orchestral Suite, widely recognized as Bach’s Air on the G String. The piece’s slow and dreamy melody hovering over a gentle walking bass line creates a mood of quiet contemplation and serves as introduction to all the music that follows on the program.
Next, Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21, also known as “Elvira Madigan”, due to its use in the film of that title, will feature soloist Michael Davidman from the prestigious ICM Piano Studio under the tutelage of ICM Founder and Van Cliburn Gold Medalist Stanislav Ioudenitch, an Uzbekistan-born American pianist. Davidman began his musical journey at the age of five and studied at the Manhattan School of Music and the Juilliard Schoo. He is currently pursuing an Artist Diploma at the International Center for Music. Critics have described his playing as “chiseled and fiery,” and he captivates audiences with his explosive and extreme performances.
Other popular works capture Valentine moods and include Debussy’s Claire de Lune for piano, Boccherini’s Minuet from his String Quintet Op.11 No.5, and Schubert’s Serenade for solo voice. Lisa Hickock, executive director of International Center for Music at Park University, says, “I’m particularly looking forward to the performance of “Claire de Lune” by Debussy/Naughten. Though I’ve heard it many times, this piece holds a special place in my heart because of its beautiful and emotive melodies. It also feels inherently romantic, making it especially appropriate for a Valentine concert!”
A Valentine cookie and punch reception follow the concert, and you’ll be able to meet Hankewich and Davidman. Even though the event is free, make reservations here to secure your seat. Parking is plentiful and also free.
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