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Classical Mon Aug 12 2013
Pulling Strings: For classical music in Chicago, you got a guy - August 2013
By Elliot Mandel
As the big festivals continue to roll through town, some wonderfully intimate performances take place this month. Three recitals highlight overshadowed instruments and their diverse repertoire. The best part: you can see all three concerts for just $10.
Rush Hour Concerts: Britten Centennial
While arts organizations around the world celebrate the 100th anniversary of Benjamin Britten's birth with performances of his large-scale works, Rush Hour Concerts presents a rarely performed gem: his Lachrymae: Reflections on a Song of Dowland for viola and piano. Britten drew inspiration from the Renaissance English composer John Dowland, creating an exquisite set of variations around Dowland's thematic material. The program includes four miniatures by Britten's teacher, Frank Bridge. Anthony Devroye — violist in the Avalon Quartet — is accompanied by pianist Daniel Schlosberg. Admission is free. Tuesday, August 13, 5:15 p.m. St. James Cathedral, 65 E. Huron, Chicago.
Loyola University Concert Series: Organist Paul Jacobs
Grammy-winning organist Paul Jacobs returns to Chicago for a recital of French music, including works by Louis Vierne, Maurice Duruflé, and Olivier Messiaen. Jacobs performs on the newly installed organ at Loyola's Madonna della Strada Chapel, a beautiful venue with a capacity of only 500 — arrive early since the chapel is sure to fill quickly. Admission is free. Sunday, August 18, 3pm. Madonna della Strada Chapel, Loyola University, 1032 W. Sheridan, Chicago.
Paul Jacobs performs really difficult organ music:
Ravinia Festival: Cellomania
Israeli cellist Amit Peled performs with a natural ease and deep, resonant tone, and his recitals are emotional, memorable experiences. He comes to Ravinia's jewel-box Bennett Gordon Hall for a performance of works by Beethoven, Brahms, Schubert, Mendelssohn, Bach, and more. Peled recently acquired the instrument owned by the legendary Pablo Casals (the 1733 Goffriller, if you're keeping score) — don't miss this rare opportunity to hear one of the world's best cellists on this 280-year-old cello. Tickets are $10. Saturday, August 31, 6pm. Bennett Gordon Hall at Ravinia Festival, 200 Ravinia Park Road, Highland Park.
Programs, artists, and prices subject to change. Tickets subject to availability.
About the author: Elliot Mandel plays cello, attends lots of concerts, writes reviews, and takes pictures. He doesn't understand why people fight about classical music in YouTube comments.
