The festival opens with a celebration of chamber music at its finest, spanning more than a century of musical innovation. Brahms’ Piano Trio No. 1 reveals a composer capable of breathtaking lyricism and emotional depth, while Haydn’s beloved “Joke” Quartet showcases the wit, elegance, and conversational brilliance that helped define the string quartet genre. The evening concludes with Schumann’s Piano Quintet, one of the Romantic era’s most exhilarating masterpieces, overflowing with passion, vitality, and expressive richness.
Performed by an exceptional roster of guest artists, including Stefan Jackiw, Peter Myers, Spartak Margaryan, Bogdan Dulu, and the Calidore String Quartet, this opening concert traces a journey from Classical refinement to Romantic intensity. Join us for an evening of extraordinary artistry that sets the stage for a week of inspiring musical encounters.
Program
Johannes Brahms (1883–1897)
Piano Trio No.1 in B Major, Op.8
Stefan Jackiw, Peter Myers, Spartak Margaryan
Joseph Haydn (1732–1809)
String Quartet in E-flat major, Op. 33, “Russian”, No. 2, Hob.III:38, “Joke”
Calidore String Quartet
Robert Schumann (1810–1856)
Piano Quintet in E-flat major, Op. 44
Calidore String Quartet, Bogdan Dulu
Enjoy all 4 concerts with the Festival Concert Pass and save 25%!
- Wit and Wonder – Tue, Aug 11
- Letters from Vienna – Wed, Aug 12
- Constellations – Thu, Aug 13
- A Celebration of the Seasons – Sat, Aug 15
Part of the VSO School of Music International Young Artists Festival.