At Corvallis-OSU Piano International, our mission is “bringing people together in a culture of piano through performance, education and advocacy.” We are always thrilled by the opportunity to present world-class pianists and spectacular repertoire through our Steinway Series. No less a key part of our mission is to provide first-class celebratory and learning events for the whole community. The first two days of March offer a delightful two-part pianistic celebration for all to enjoy!
On Friday, March 1, at First Presbyterian Church in downtown Corvallis, acclaimed “Pied Piper of the Piano” Alpin Hong displays his keen charisma and musicianship in a lecture-concert called Insights at the Piano: Masters of Metamorphosis. Following on the variation fun in Jeremy Denk’s January concert (see previous post), Hong describes his concert “Themes and variations by Mendelssohn, Muczynski, and Mussorgsky illuminating how composers mold our emotions through modulation, meter, and myth.” Hong’s presentations are always marked by incredible creativity and vitality. A New York Times review of his sold-out New York recital debut at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall called him a “pianistic firebrand.” In advance of his visit to Corvallis, he gives a special greeting to our community in this video.
The next day, Saturday, March 2, brings our ever-popular community celebration People and Pianos Day. Festivities begin with a Children’s Concert called Snakes, Sharks, and Swans, A Whimsical Tour with Cello and Piano, in which cellist Victoria Wolff and pianist Rachelle McCabe share the sounds of slithering snakes and aquatic animals. The afternoon festivities once again feature Alpin Hong, sharing his insights in a program called Transformers: More Than Meets the Ear, including a performance of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Throughout the day, mini talks and lobby performances featuring community pianists will surprise and delight.
We hope you and your family will join us the first weekend in March for our pianistic extravaganza!
~ Matt Goodrich