< Back Pierre Beaudry Guitar / Baroque Learn More Videos About Guitarist Pierre Beaudry performs through the world. His extensive concert career takes him to Europe, North America, China and South East Asia, where his solo performances are acclaimed both by the public and the press. The critics have rewarded him for his interpretations of Baroque, Modern and Avant-garde music. In addition to being a laureate of the International Music Competition of Finale Ligure in Italy, he received numerous grants from the Quebec Arts Council, and is a DAAD alumni (German Academic Exchange Service). He studied in Germany at the Cologne Music Academy (Artist Diploma, with Honors), in France at the Paris Conservatory of Music (1st Prize) and at the Nice Conservatory of Music (1st Prize). His most important teachers have been Alexandre Lagoya, Ako Ito and pianist Marc Durand. His interpretations are also marked by long-term studies of musicology and performance practice. Since 2001, due to a major mechanical disorder in the spine, Pierre Beaudry is forced all the time to play guitar in an orthostatic position, i.e. standing up. This position is absolutely unusual in modern classical guitar. He never stopped giving concerts and gave his first performance standing up, in solo, in France on May 18th, 2006. In the period from 1993 to 2006, he has been on the music faculties of three universities in Quebec, Canada (Concordia, Bishop’s and Sherbrooke). He is currently professor of guitar at the Tiziano Rossetti International Music Academy in Lugano, Switzerland. He also is on the faculty of Aeyons Classical , the Australian international teaching platform. He plays a Philip Woodfield Moore guitar. Previous Next

< Back Igor Zubkovsky Cello Learn More Videos About Igor Zubkovsky is a Russian-born cellist who made his solo debut at age twelve with the Minsk State Philharmonic Orchestra in Belarus, performing the Haydn C Major Cello Concerto. He studied at the Moscow Conservatory in Russia with Natalia Shakhovskaya and later earned a Graduate Performance Diploma from the Peabody Conservatory in the United States on full scholarship. Igor Zubkovsky, cello, Jennifer Savage, piano. Carnegie Hall, February, 2026 An award-winning musician, he has received top prizes at the International Cello Competition in Minsk, Belarus, and Belgrade, Serbia, and the Grand Prix at the Tansman Competition in Łódź, Poland, as well as high awards at the Trapani, Italy (2nd prize), and Weimar, Germany (1st prize) International Chamber Music Competitions with The Brahms Trio (Moscow). Since 2003, Zubkovsky has been a member of the Washington National Opera Orchestra and the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra. https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/z/zo-zz/igor-zubkovsky/ He has performed across the U.S. and Europe, including Weill Recital Hall and Merkin Hall in New York, the Newport Music Festival, and the Moscow Conservatory, and has appeared as soloist in works including Brahms’ Double Concerto and Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations. Most recently, he spent two seasons with the critically acclaimed Veronika String Quartet and is currently a founding member of the Lehner Quartet, with whom he has recorded two Modern Classics albums of new works by living composers, with a third in production. Lehner Quartet, Carnegie Hall, NY, November 2025 In addition to performing, Zubkovsky is an active arranger and editor, creating original transcriptions for duos and trios with cello, and he has premiered new works, including Isaac Mikhnovsky’s Cello Sonata. For inquiries regarding concert engagements or recordings, please contact Igor Zubkovsky at zubkovsky@hotmail.com Previous Next

< Back Previous Greg Brown Next Guitarist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall April 28, 2026 WATCH VIDEO Greg C. Brown is an American performer, composer, and recording artist who has released over 25 albums, both as a soloist and in collaboration with various ensembles. He has performed across the United States, Canada, and Europe, including a notable appearance at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, Ireland. With over 25 years of professional teaching experience, Greg has served on the faculty of Mary Baldwin University and several private institutions. He currently maintains a thriving private teaching studio in his hometown of Charlottesville, Virginia. Greg holds a Master’s degree in Music Composition from the Vermont College of Fine Arts (2022), a Bachelor’s degree in Business with a specialty in Music Industry from City University of Bellevue, Washington, and a Music, Video, and Business diploma from The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. His orchestral and chamber works have been performed by ensembles such as the Charlottesville Camerata Rotunda Chamber Orchestra, the Trio Lunaire, the Chatham Baroque Trio, the Thalea String Quartet, and Ari Streisfeld of Duo Cortona. As a guitarist, Greg has also shared the stage with acclaimed artists including John D’Earth, Daryl Davis, and Phil Wiggins. Greg’s music has been featured in television, film, video games, and radio broadcasts worldwide—and even transcribed into Braille. His recordings are available on all major streaming platforms, and his sheet music is published through Les Productions d’Oz and J.W. Pepper. He is a member of the Guitar Foundation of America, the Charlottesville Classical Guitar Society, the College Music Society, Chamber Music America, and the Society of Composers, Inc. Greg has studied with distinguished musicians and composers including Pepe Romero, Benjamin Verdery, Douglas James, Keith Stevens, Christopher Berg, Thomas Patterson, Martha Masters, the Eden & Stell Duo, and Anthony Glise. Drawing inspiration from Beethoven, Eddie Van Halen, Paganini, and the rich traditions of Spanish Flamenco, Greg’s artistry bridges genres and cultures, blending classical discipline with contemporary energy and expression.

< Back Previous Peter Takács Next WATCH VIDEO Hailed by the New York Times as “a marvelous pianist,” Peter Takács has performed widely, receiving critical and audience acclaim for his penetrating and communicative musical interpretations. Takács was born in Bucharest, Romania, and started his musical studies before his fourth birthday. After his debut recital at age 7, he was a frequent recitalist in his native city until his parents’ request for immigration to the West, at which point all his studies and performances were banned. He continued studying clandestinely with his piano teacher until his family was finally allowed to immigrate to France, where, at age 14, he was admitted to the Conservatoire de Paris. Upon Takács’ arrival in the United States, his outstanding musical talents continued to be recognized with full scholarships to Northwestern University and the University of Illinois, and a three-year fellowship for doctoral studies at the Peabody Conservatory, where he completed his artistic training with renowned pianist Leon Fleisher. Takács has performed as guest soloist with major orchestras in the U.S. and abroad, as well as at important summer festivals such as Tanglewood, Music Mountain, Chautauqua Institution, ARIA International, Schlern Music Festival in the Italian Alps, Tel Hai International Master Classes in Israel, and Sweden’s Helsingborg Festival. Since 2008, he has been a member of the faculty at the Montecito Summer Music Festival in Santa Barbara, California. He has performed and recorded the cycle of 32 Beethoven piano sonatas, which were released on the Cambria label to critical acclaim in 2011. Takács’ success as a teacher is attested to by the accomplishments of his students, who have won top prizes in competitions in the United States, Canada, Europe, and South Africa. They have been accepted at major graduate schools such as the Curtis Institute, Juilliard School, and Peabody Conservatory, among many others. Takács has given master classes in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, and has been a jury member at prestigious national and international competitions such as the San Antonio International Keyboard Competition, the Canadian National Competition, the Cleveland International Piano Competition, and the Hilton Head International Piano Competition. Takács has taught piano at Oberlin since 1976.

< Back Apply Previous Next Camerata de Coahuila Selected Soloists will be presented at the colORCHESTRA concerts with the Camerata de Coahuila at the Teatro Isauro Martinez in Torreon, Mexico, under the baton of the Guest Conductor Maestro Gevorg Sargsyan. This project combines a public concert and recording for an Album release on Spotify, Apple, Amazon, distributed by the CiMA label Application deadlines and Live Auditions dates - see announcements on the website. Broadcast on video and social platforms. Meet the Judges and the Conductors on your Live Audition. Streaming technology seminar in preparation for Live Audition - prior to performing LIVE. Concert dates in 2026-27 Season: December 4, 2026 Recorded LIVE from the concert Rehearsals with the Camerata de Coahuila will be scheduled 3 days prior to the concert date. The concerts are Broadcast Live by Virtual Concert Halls on public channels on YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Twitch, among other platforms. Video of the concert will be available for playbacks on the channels. Soloists will participate in interviews for media and other activities associated with the event. No age restrictions. See more for repertory specifics and additional details NOT accepted repertory Meet the Orchestra The Camerata de Coahuila is a professional chamber orchestra based in Torreón, Mexico, dedicated to promoting musical culture and its values throughout society. The institution’s primary purpose is to elevate the prestige of the State of Coahuila through musical excellence. It regularly performs at its official home, the magnificent Teatro Isauro Martínez. As part of its social commitment, the Camerata holds educational concerts in schools, universities, and public spaces, in addition to touring various municipalities. Established as a non-profit, the institution was born from the momentum of citizen-led initiatives and the steadfast support of the Government of Coahuila. Since its inaugural concert on July 10, 1994, the institution has become a national benchmark and a cornerstone of the state’s cultural heritage. Over more than three decades of uninterrupted activity, the Camerata has presented two annual seasons consisting of both regular and extraordinary concerts. These performances have featured prestigious national and international soloists, including: Renée Fleming, Javier Camarena, José Carreras, José María Gallardo del Rey, Ramón Vargas, Ainhoa Arteta, Carlos Prieto, Horacio Franco, Alexandre Tharaud, Jorge Federico Osorio, Paul Badura-Skoda, Román Revueltas, Emilio Angulo, Stefan Milenkovic, Pilar Rioja, Fernando de la Mora, Alexander Gavrylyuk, Walter Boeykens, Cyprien Katsaris, David Guerrier, Ophélie Gaillard, and Leo Brouwer. Recently, as part of the Camerata’s 30th-anniversary celebration, the orchestra featured a magnificent performance by Rolando Villazón, continuing its mission to bring world-class concerts to the region. Furthermore, it is essential to recognize the audience, whose constant, generous, and loyal support over these thirty-one years has been vital to the efforts of this great cultural institution. Meet the Conductor Previous Next GEVORG SARGSYAN Guest Conductor for December 4, 2026 Concert and Recording Hailed as "...one of the most inspiring artists of his generation..." Gevorg Sargsyan is a Singapore based conductor and music director from Armenia. Recipient of Sir Georg Solti Award he has been guest-conducting in various venues around the world with different orchestras including Czech Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra, Armenian National Opera and ballet productions, Jayakarta Symphonic Orchestra, Pescara Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra among others. Gevorg studied in his native Armenia at the Yerevan State Conservatory and later continued in Vienna Conservatory in Austria and Goldsmiths College of Music, London (UK). After moving to Asia, he is combining his career between conducting and running masterclasses and lectures. He is a visiting professor of the University of Philippines College of Music, and is regularly guest-lecturing in various educational establishments across South East Asia. Gevorg is also a member of adjudication panels of various festivals and music competitions and worked as a Music Director of Madison Academy of Music and SCGS String Orchestra. He has recently been appointed an Artistic Director of Music Hubs with Ministry of Culture of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Learn More Application and Audition Process Application form is DUE by the posted DEADLINES throughout the season. Upload video of any piece (with or without accompaniment). YouTube or Google Drive links are accepted Application fee $75 Selected musicians will be invited to audition live on a public Internet TV Broadcast* and will receive a preparation tech session with VCHS Broadcast Engineers. You will meet the Judges during Live Audition. Live Auditions are held virtually. Live Auditions are judged in real time. Judges provide participants with immediate on-air feedback. During the live audition participants will be able to speak with Judges. • The judges’ decisions are final and may not be contested. • To participate in the live online auditions, each musician must prepare required technical setup Live Audition Fee - $250 *Fee includes the Technology Preparation session with A/V and Broadcast engineers You will be notified about your acceptance into the colORCHESTRA program Fees Application and video pre-screening - $75 Live Audition - $250 Performance, Recording, and Album release fees apply Selected soloists are expected to cover their own travel expenses. Upon request colORCHESTRA provides supporting documentation for selected soloists' visa applications. Selected soloists may request press releases, letters of recommendation, confirmations of their participation in the concert, in support of the soloist's grants applications. Apply NOT accepted repertory The Isauro Martínez Theater The Isauro Martínez Theater (TIM) is considered one of the most beautiful theaters in Latin America and stands as a symbol of the cultural heritage and history of Torreón. Its architecture, which blends Neoclassical and Art Deco elements, evokes a timeless elegance, establishing it as a landmark of the region's artistic life. With its striking facade and an interior adorned with frescoes and ornamental details by the Valencian painter Salvador Tarazona, the theater has hosted countless productions, from plays to world-renowned concerts. This space is not merely an entertainment center but a fundamental pillar of cultural life in the region, promoting art and education through diverse initiatives. History and Rescue The Isauro Martínez stands out not only for its architectural beauty but also for its role in the community. As a hub for cultural outreach, it has fostered local creativity and talent, serving as a meeting point for artists and audiences. Its legacy endures as a beacon of inspiration and a sanctuary for the arts in all forms. Inauguration: March 7, 1930, by the Zacatecan entrepreneur Don Isauro Martínez. The Rescue: In the 1970s, university students Alejandro Máynez, José Santos Medrano, and Sigfrido Macías campaigned for the theater to be deeded to the city of Torreón; their efforts were successful. Governance: The TIM was placed under the custody of the National Institute of Fine Arts and Literature (INBAL). In May 1982, a Board of Trustees (Patronato) was formed to oversee its remodeling; it is currently presided over by Antonio Anaya Finck. Restoration: During the 1980s and 90s, local painter José Méndez led the restoration, meticulously returning the majesty to Salvador Tarazona’s original mural work. A Vibrant Cultural Circuit The theater’s activities are part of a broader cultural circuit within the Laguna region. This includes the theater's annex art gallery and several workshops open to the public, such as: Visual arts and performing arts laboratories. Literary workshops and "literary cafés." Voice, singing, and public speaking lessons. The theater is also the home (official venue) of the Camerata de Coahuila, the International Piano Festival, and the "Perla Szuchmacher" Fine Arts Prize for Children's and Youth Theater. Technical Specifications Seating Capacity: 719 seats. Layout: Includes one central box and 12 side boxes . Ethan Daniel Eager Clingan, Music Director Ethan Daniel Eager Clingan (Torreón, Coahuila, 1986) began studying piano and solfège at the age of five under the guidance of his mother, Beri Clingan de Eager, and later continued his piano studies with Professor Amy Wielenga. At age eleven he began violin lessons with Maestro Victor Lipov, and subsequently studied with Maestros Guillermo Villalobos, Natalia Zabolotskaja, Tatiana Marouchtchak, Tatul Yeghiazarián, and Marina Gorbenko. He studied orchestral conducting with Maestro Natalia Riazanova, and in October 2010 he participated in a workshop in Mexico City organized by the National System for Musical Development (Sistema Nacional de Fomento Musical) for orchestra conductors, taught by Maestros Armando Zaya Pérez and Jorge Córdoba Valencia. In the summer of 2010, he traveled to Vienna, Austria, to take classes in orchestral conducting and musical analysis with Maestro Manfred Huss. In October 2018 he took an orchestral conducting course with Maestro Jörg Birhance in the city of Zacatecas, and from 2020 to the present he has been taking remote courses in musical analysis with Maestro Birhance at the European Music Institute Vienna. Since 2006 he has conducted the orchestra and choir “Ecos en el Desierto,” a Laguna-region ensemble that over the past 16 years has appeared in the main theaters of Torreón, Guanajuato, Monterrey, Saltillo, Reynosa, Zacatecas, León, and San Luis Potosí. From 2014 to the present, he has served as Artistic Director of the Torreón Youth Symphony Orchestra (OSIJUT), where he previously held the position of Assistant Conductor (2010–2013). Under his baton, OSIJUT has annually presented a series of seasonal and educational concerts with varied programs, including the oratorio Elijah by Felix Mendelssohn; a staged production of the ballet Coppélia by Léo Delibes; the opera La Bohème by Giacomo Puccini; and the soundtrack of Star Wars by John Williams, among others. OSIJUT has also collaborated with a large number of soloists, choral and dance ensembles, and has participated in the Julio Torri Festival in Coahuila and the Silvestre Revueltas International Arts Festival, performing in the city of Durango, Durango. In 2020, OSIJUT performed in Las Cruces, USA, alongside that city’s New Horizons Symphony. GEVORG SARGSYAN Guest Conductor for December 4, 2026 Concert and Recording *** About Hailed as "...one of the most inspiring artists of his generation..." Gevorg Sargsyan is a Singapore based conductor and music director from Armenia. Recipient of Sir Georg Solti Award he has been guest-conducting in various venues around the world with different orchestras including Czech Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra, Armenian National Opera and ballet productions, Jayakarta Symphonic Orchestra, Pescara Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra among others. Gevorg studied in his native Armenia at the Yerevan State Conservatory and later continued in Vienna Conservatory in Austria and Goldsmiths College of Music, London (UK). After moving to Asia, he is combining his career between conducting and running masterclasses and lectures. He is a visiting professor of the University of Philippines College of Music, and is regularly guest-lecturing in various educational establishments across South East Asia. Gevorg is also a member of adjudication panels of various festivals and music competitions and worked as a music director of Madison Academy of Music and SCGS String Orchestra. He has recently been appointed an Artistic Director of Music Hubs with Ministry of Culture of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. www.soundespressivocompetition.com Gevorg Sargsyan | Sound Espressivo en.wikipedia.org Gevorg Sargsyan - Wikipedia

< Back Previous Vintine Anrich Next Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall November 24, 2024 WATCH VIDEO Vintine Anrich, 17, is a violinist from Mountain House, CA, and a longtime student of James Greening-Valenzuela. She has earned numerous competition prizes, including First Prize at the Charleston International Music Competition and the North California Young Talents Competition, Second Prize at the San Francisco International Innovative Music Competition and Pelican International Music Competition, and Third Prize at the DVC/HNU String Competition in California. A member of the Oakland Symphony Youth Orchestra, this is her second appearance as a soloist at the Carnegie Laureate Gala.

< Back Apply Previous Next Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine Selected Soloists will be presented at the colORCHESTRA concert with the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine in Lviv, Ukraine, at the Lviv Philharmonic Hall under the baton of Maestro Theodore Kuchar. Concert dates available in the 2025-26 and 2026-27 concert seasons. Rehearsals with Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine will be scheduled 3 days prior to concert date. The concerts will be Broadcast Live by Virtual Concert Halls on various public channels on YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Twitch, among other platforms Video of the concert will stay available for playbacks on the channels. Soloists will participate in interviews for media and other activities associated with the event. Important dates: Application deadlines and Live Auditions Dates - see announcements on the website. Broadcast on video and social platforms. Meet the Judges and the Conductors. Streaming technology seminar in preparation for Live Audition - prior to performing LIVE. No age restrictions. Any complete Concerto for Violin, Piano, or Cello Complete Concertos Meet the Orchestra The Myroslav Skoryk Lviv National Philharmonic is an artistic centre in the centre of an ancient European city and one of the leading cultural institutions in Ukraine! During 1953 to 1957, and later in 1987–1989, the conductor of the orchestra was Yuriy Lutsiv. From 1964 to 1987, the symphony orchestra was led by Demyan Pelekhaty. From 1989 the main conductor of the orchestra was Ivan Yuzyuk, the conductors were Roman Filipchuk and Yarema Kolessa. Later this position was held by Aidar Torybayev, Ilya Stupel, Taras Krysa. Since 2018, the orchestra has been cooperating with American conductor of Ukrainian origin Theodore Kuchar, who is now the main guest conductor of the orchestra. In 2006, the Lviv National Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra was awarded the title "Academic". In 2018, with the participation of this group, during the Myroslav Skoryk author's concert, the Lviv Philharmonic received "national" status. Since September, 2020, the Philharmonic has been named after this Ukrainian composer. The concertmasters of the orchestra are Honored Artist of Ukraine Marko Komonko and Mykola Gavyuk. The Symphony Orchestra of the Lviv National Philharmonic is a regular participant in international festivals. In particular, the International Festival of Musical Art Virtuosos, the international festival of contemporary music Kontrasty, the Ukrainian-Polish festival Discovering Paderewski. The orchestra has toured in many countries around the world, including Poland, Italy, Spain, France, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, and China. Over the past few seasons, the orchestra has made a number of important recordings for major international labels, including Naxos and Brilliant Classics. The Lviv Philharmonic was inaugurated on 27 September 1902 in the Count Stanisław Skarbek Theatre, which was specially redesigned for the Philharmonic’s needs (today the building is home to the Mariia Zankovetska National Academic Ukrainian Drama Theatre). It was an excellent venue for public performances, as it had 1095 seats, a large moving stage (160 square metres), a concert organ, electric lighting, central heating, and fountains, a cafeteria, a restaurant, and a winter garden. Meet the Conductor Previous Next The multiple award-winning conductor Theodore Kuchar is the most recorded conductor of his generation and appears on over 130 compact discs for the Naxos, Brilliant Classics, Ondine, Marco Polo and Toccata Classics labels. He has served as the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of two of Europe’s leading orchestras, the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine and the Janacek Philharmonic Orchestra (formerly the Czech Radio Orchestra) while also serving as the Principal Conductor of the Slovak National Symphony Orchestra and Slovak Sinfonietta. In the 2011-12 season he commenced his tenure as the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Orquesta Sinfonica de Venezuela and prior to that served as the Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Queensland Philharmonic Orchestra in Brisbane, Australia. His current positions include: Principal Conductor of the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine since 2022. Resident Conductor at the Kent/Blossom Music Festival since 2004. Artistic Director of the Nevada Chamber Music Festival since 2005. Chief Conductor of the Janáček Philharmonic Orchestra from 2005 to 2012. Artistic Director of the Venezuela Symphony Orchestra since 2011. Professor of Orchestral Conducting at Houghton University since 2022. Learn More Application and Audition Process Application form is DUE by the posted DEADLINES throughout the season. Upload video of any piece (with or without accompaniment). YouTube or Google Drive links are accepted Application fee $75 Selected musicians will be invited to audition live on a public Internet TV Broadcast* and will receive a preparation tech session with VCHS Broadcast Engineers. You will meet the Judges during Live Audition. Live Auditions are held virtually. Live Auditions are judged in real time. Judges provide participants with immediate on-air feedback. During the live audition participants will be able to speak with Judges. • The judges’ decisions are final and may not be contested. • To participate in the live online auditions, each musician must prepare required technical setup Live Audition Fee - $250 *Fee includes the Technology Preparation session with A/V and Broadcast engineers You will be notified about your acceptance into the colORCHESTRA program Fees Application and video pre-screening - $75 Live Audition - $250 Performance - NO FEE ($0) Selected soloists are expected to cover their own travel expenses. Upon request colORCHESTRA provides supporting documentation for selected soloists' visa applications. Selected soloists may request press releases, letters of recommendation, confirmations of their participation in the concert, in support of the soloist's grants applications. Apply Complete Concertos The foundation of the Philharmonic and its first decades “Lviv should be proud of its Philharmonic and rejoice that this truly artistic institution has put it among the first musical cities in Europe.” Jan Skrzydlewski The Lviv Philharmonic was inaugurated on 27 September 1902 in the Count Stanisław Skarbek Theatre, which was specially redesigned for the Philharmonic’s needs (today the building is home to the Mariia Zankovetska National Academic Ukrainian Drama Theatre). It was an excellent venue for public performances, as it had 1095 seats, a large moving stage (160 square metres), a concert organ, electric lighting, central heating, and fountains, a cafeteria, a restaurant, and a winter garden. The Lviv Philharmonic began its activities alongside the philharmonic societies and orchestras of Prague (1901), Warsaw (1901), Stockholm (1902), and Madrid (1903). The new musical location of the city was organised on the initiative of Ludwik Heller, Ludwik Czelansky and Henryk Jarecki. In 2006, the Lviv National Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra was awarded the title "Academic". In 2018, with the participation of this group, during the Myroslav Skoryk author's concert, the Lviv Philharmonic received "national" status. Since September, 2020, the Philharmonic has been named after this Ukrainian composer. The concertmasters of the orchestra are Honored Artist of Ukraine Marko Komonko and Mykola Gavyuk. The Symphony Orchestra of the Lviv National Philharmonic is a regular participant in international festivals. In particular, the International Festival of Musical Art Virtuosos, the international festival of contemporary music Kontrasty, the Ukrainian-Polish festival Discovering Paderewski. The orchestra has toured in many countries around the world, including Poland, Italy, Spain, France, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, and China. Over the past few seasons, the orchestra has made a number of important recordings for major international labels, including Naxos and Brilliant Classics. The Lviv Philharmonic was inaugurated on 27 September 1902 in the Count Stanisław Skarbek Theatre, which was specially redesigned for the Philharmonic’s needs (today the building is home to the Mariia Zankovetska National Academic Ukrainian Drama Theatre). It was an excellent venue for public performances, as it had 1095 seats, a large moving stage (160 square metres), a concert organ, electric lighting, central heating, and fountains, a cafeteria, a restaurant, and a winter garden.

< Back Previous Kaiwei Zhi Next Pianist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall June 28, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Kaiwei Zhi – Pianist Kaiwei Zhi is a pianist based in New York City, whose career has spanned performances of concertos, recitals, and chamber music across the world. Kaiwei made his concerto debut at the Tchaikovsky Conservatory of Kyiv, performing Liszt’s La Campanella while studying at the R. Glier Kyiv Institute of Music under the guidance of Uliana Yablonskaya, beginning in 2004. He later performed Liszt’s First Piano Concerto with the State Orchestra of Ukraine. From 2008 to 2012, Kaiwei performed a series of recitals throughout China, introducing audiences to the depth of Slavic music. During this period, he earned Third Prize at the 22nd Young Musician International Competition “Città di Barletta” in Italy. After completing his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Piano Performance, he spent several months in Paris, studying with Olivier Gardon, where he rediscovered his faith and renewed his passion for music. In 2014, Kaiwei made his return to the concert stage with a performance of the Yellow River Piano Concerto alongside the Chongqing Philharmonic Orchestra under Xieyang Chen, conductor of the Shanghai Philharmonic, at the Grand Theater of Chongqing. A year later, Kaiwei moved to New York City to continue his artistic development at the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with the late Philip Kawin, earning a Professional Studies Certificate in 2017. He later pursued further refinement under Spencer Myer, receiving a Graduate Performance Diploma in Piano Performance. In 2019, Kaiwei was both the opening performer at a contemporary music recital at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall and the closing performer at a similar event at Markin Hall, New York. The following year, he presented his first solo piano recital at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall. During the pandemic, Kaiwei turned his focus toward French repertoire, performing Debussy’s Fantaisie for Piano and Orchestra with Dr. Leon Burke and the University City Symphony in Missouri, USA. In a remarkable artistic and humanitarian gesture, he later returned to Kyiv during the Ukraine–Russia war, performing Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G Major with the Honored Academic Symphony Orchestra of Ukrainian Radio under Maestro Volodymyr Sheiko. Today, Kaiwei Zhi continues to build an international career distinguished by his expressive interpretations, technical mastery, and deep artistic sincerity, connecting audiences through music that transcends borders and time.

< Back Previous The Castanets of Madrid Next The Castanets of Madrid Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall June 30, 2025 WATCH VIDEO Teresa Laiz Conductor Castanet Virtuoso, Performer, Composer, and Educator. Born in Madrid in 1966, Teresa Laiz has dedicated over three decades to the art of the castanets. Her journey began through intensive training in Spanish Dance under celebrated masters such as Víctor Ullate, Ana Mercedes, Rafael de Córdoba, Candela Soto, La Tani, El Farruquito, Juan Carlos Lérida, and Belén Maya. Until 2003, her professional focus was primarily on Spanish Dance and Flamenco, after which she began creating multidisciplinary performances inspired by the works of Federico García Lorca—integrating theater, music, dance, and castanets. A turning point in her artistic path came in 2005, when she met Maestro José de Udaeta, who introduced her to the world of Concert Castanets. Their collaboration led to several joint performances, and in 2006, Teresa Laiz embarked on a solo career. Since then, she has composed original castanet scores and performed a wide range of repertoires—including classical, Spanish, and folk—distinguished by their virtuosity and emotional intensity. An experienced and passionate educator, Teresa has been teaching since 1987. Her expertise spans Classical Ballet, Spanish Dance, Flamenco, Creative and Ballroom Dance, and Castanets. She has taught at numerous institutions, including the prestigious “Amor de Dios” Flamenco and Spanish Dance Center in Madrid. Currently, she is on faculty at the School of Performing Arts Ma non troppo in Madrid. Teresa’s performance career includes appearances on major radio and television channels (TVE, Telecinco, Cuatro TV, Telemadrid, Rai TV, Canal Nord Catalunya, TV Costa Brava, and more), and on stages across Spain, Italy, France, Austria, and the United States. She has been featured at distinguished festivals such as the International Festival of Porta Ferrada, Festival des Articulés (France), the Catalunya Against Cancer Festival, and the International Castanets Festival, which she founded in 2009—the world’s first and only festival devoted entirely to castanets in all styles. She has collaborated with a diverse range of musical ensembles, from intimate piano or guitar duos to full symphony orchestras. Her notable performances include appearances at the Liria Palace, the National Auditorium of Spain, Plaza Mayor in Madrid, the Musikverein in Vienna, and Carnegie Hall in New York. Her stage partners have included world-renowned artists such as Montserrat Martí Caballé, Luis Santana, Marika Spadafino, Carmen Solís, Nancy Fabiola Herrera, Aquiles Machado, Sílvia Pérez Cruz, Clara Montes, José de Udaeta, Antonio Reyes, Adrián Galia, and Sergio Bernal. Teresa is a two-time winner of the Progressive Musicians International Music Competition, in both the Soloist and Ensemble categories, earning her performances at Carnegie Hall in 2022 and 2023. In 2024, she and soprano Marta Casas won First Prize in the Fanny Mendelssohn International Competition (Professional Chamber Music category). Her discography includes the solo album Repicando el Alma (2007), as well as collaborations on albums such as Parlem-ne (2008, with Santi Vendrell), Canciones del comer y del beber (2010, with Els que canten), and “Bellas Promesas” (2022, with La Firu). She also performed on the soundtrack of The Man Who Killed Don Quixote, directed by Terry Gilliam, with music by Roque Baños. As an author, she published Castanet Method by Teresa Laiz, Vol. 1, available on Amazon, and continues to develop further volumes. She also completed formal studies in orchestral conducting at the Navarro Lara School of Orchestra and Band Conducting. Teresa is the founder and director of the O.I.R. (Orchestra of Rare Instruments) and the Castanets Choir of Madrid. In 2019, she launched the Online Castanets School, offering digital instruction to students worldwide. In 2023, she established the Teresa Laiz International Castanets Competition, which will hold its third edition in February 2025. In concert, Teresa redefines the castanets as a solo instrument capable of expressing the depth and breadth of musical tradition—from Baroque masters such as Bach and Scarlatti to Spanish composers like Albéniz and Falla, to Catalan, flamenco, jazz, pop, and international folk music. She performs her own original scores, bringing renewed visibility and artistic prestige to this deeply rooted, yet often overlooked, instrument of Spanish culture. Today, she continues to compose, teach, perform internationally, and lead efforts to preserve and elevate the art of castanets. She is currently preparing the 11th International Castanets Festival and the 3rd Teresa Laiz International Castanets Competition. Nora Muñoz Spanish Dance Artist and Castanet Soloist From an early age, Nora Muñoz began her artistic training in Classical Ballet, Spanish Dance, and Mexican Folklore. She later specialized in Stylized Spanish Dance, Spanish Classical, and Flamenco, studying under renowned Mexican master Oscar Tarriba through the teachings of Ana María Sánchez. Her formation has been enriched through masterclasses, workshops, and seminars with acclaimed teachers from both Mexico and Spain, deepening her technique and expressive artistry. Nora has performed as a guest artist in various Flamenco productions and Spanish Classical Dance concerts, and appeared in the opera Carmen at the Apollo Art Performance in California, USA. As an educator, she has taught Spanish Dance, introductory Flamenco, and Castanets for both public institutions and private organizations, while also directing her own Spanish Dance studio. In 2023, Nora was awarded Second Prize as one of the four finalists in the 1st Teresa Laiz International Castanet Competition. That same year, she earned her Degree in Concert Castanets from the Teresa Laiz International Castanet School in Spain, a member of the International Dance Council CID–UNESCO. Currently, she is a member of the Castanet Choir of Madrid, under the direction of Teresa Laiz, where she performs both as a soloist and ensemble artist. Florencia Fourcade Dance Educator, Composer, Choreographer, and Castanet Soloist Florencia Fourcade is an accomplished dance teacher, composer, choreographer, and castanet soloist with over two decades of experience. Since 2000, she has taught at the Elina Molina Estrella Dance School, where she leads classes in Castanets, Classical Ballet, Contemporary Dance, Flamenco, and Spanish Dance. In 2020, she was appointed Director of the school, where she continues to inspire and mentor new generations of dancers. In 2024, she graduated from the Teresa Laiz International Castanet School, Spain, where she now also serves as a faculty member. Her dual role as performer and educator reflects her commitment to the development of the concert castanet as a solo instrument. Florencia is a soloist member of the Castanet Choir of Madrid, under the direction of Teresa Laiz, contributing to performances that elevate the castanets in both traditional and contemporary repertoires. She is also the co-founder of the International Castanet Foundation “Castamusic”, an initiative dedicated to promoting the cultural and artistic value of the castanets worldwide. Her artistic contributions have been formally recognized by the Senate of Mendoza for her work in cultural development. She has appeared in major events and venues across Argentina, Spain, and New York, earning praise for her expressive performances and original compositions. In February 2025, Florencia was awarded First Prize in the Concert Castanet Category at the III Teresa Laiz International Castanet Competition, further solidifying her position as a leading figure in this unique musical discipline. Isabel Alarcón Dancer and Castanet Soloist Isabel Alarcón is a Spanish dancer from Madrid, currently based in Seville, Andalucía. A graduate of the prestigious Carmen Amaya Professional Conservatory in Spanish Dance and Flamenco, she was later awarded a scholarship at the Cristina Heeren Foundation of Flamenco Art, where she studied with renowned masters such as Milagros Menjíbar and Javier Barón. Her talent has been recognized in major flamenco competitions: she was a finalist in the Ubrique Flamenco Competition 2024, as well as in the Federation of Peñas of Málaga (2024) and Seville (2023). In 2024, she won the II Tablao Competition of Casa de la Memoria, one of Seville’s most respected flamenco venues. In February 2025, she was awarded First Prize in the Category of Castanets for Dance Accompaniment at the III Teresa Laiz International Castanet Competition, highlighting her excellence in this specialized art form. Isabel has performed on some of Spain’s most iconic stages, including the Royal Theatre of Spain, Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona, and the National Auditorium of Music in Madrid. She is a frequent performer in tablaos and peñas across Andalucía, and also appears as a castanet soloist with orchestras, bringing the rich tradition of Spanish dance and music to concert stages. Her choreography is deeply rooted in traditional forms, yet transformed by her personal artistry into an elegant, refined, and uniquely expressive style. Bárbara Martín Legal Expert, Social Leader, and Castanet Enthusiast Bárbara Martín holds degrees in Politics and Administration from the Spanish Open University (2018) and Law from the University of Granada (1997). She has also pursued advanced academic and professional training, including: Master’s in Legal Practices and Procedures (2000) Master’s in Managing Small and Medium-Sized Companies (1998) Master’s in Fundraising Management for Non-Profit Organizations (2022) XI Strategic Management and Social Leadership Program, IESE – University of Navarra (2021) Her expertise in European and disability law is reinforced by her participation in several specialized programs, including: 15th Intensive Seminar on the European Union, College of Europe, Bruges (2008) Institutions of the European Union, Spanish Diplomatic School (2007) International Disability Summer School on the CRPD, National University of Ireland (2012) Course on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Spanish Open University (2011) Since 2015, Bárbara has served as Vice-President of the European Blind Union (EBU). She currently leads the Coordination Unit for Institutional Agreements and External Collaborations at ONCE, a role she has held since 2019. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Italian, Bárbara is also deeply passionate about the arts. In 2021, she began her castanet studies at the Teresa Laiz International Castanet School, joining the Madrid Castanets Choir in 2022. On September 24, 2023, she became the President of the Teresa Laiz Fan Club, a role that reflects her joy in supporting and celebrating this unique musical art form. Pilar Vita Castanet Performer and Flamenco Arts Enthusiast Pilar Vita, born in Granada, holds a degree in Pharmacy and an MBA, and has completed postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge. Alongside her academic and professional accomplishments, she has maintained a lifelong passion for traditional flamenco music, singing, and dance, which she began exploring at an early age through classes and amateur performance groups. Pilar has been playing castanets for over 30 years, and in 2022, she deepened her artistic journey by studying under acclaimed castanet soloist and teacher Teresa Laiz. That same year, she joined the Madrid Castanets Choir, founded and directed by Teresa Laiz, where she performs in repertoires spanning classical, Spanish, and popular music. With the Choir, Pilar has performed in distinguished venues such as the Teatro Flamenco Madrid, Teatro Lara, Teatro Reina Victoria (as part of the IX and X International Castanets Festivals), the Royal Monastery of Santa María de El Paular, San Ildefonso Church, and St. Michael’s Church in Brihuega (Guadalajara). She continues to expand her knowledge of flamenco through the Flamenco Vivo program—a comprehensive study of flamenco theory and practice offered by the Flamencology Department of the University of Córdoba. Pilar is also a student member of the International Dance Council CID – UNESCO, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning and international artistic exchange. She remains an active member of the Castanet Choir of Madrid, contributing to the revitalization and visibility of castanets as a concert instrument. Megan Lee Performer and Member of the Castanet Choir of Madrid Megan Lee is a New York native whose artistic journey began with the study of piano and ballet, leading to early performances in ballets, operas, and musicals. At the age of 17, she joined the Atlanta Ballet Company, and later appeared in New York summer stock and off-Broadway productions. Her career took her abroad to France, where she toured for several years with a French musical group, blending her love of music and stage performance. After some time away from the stage, Megan rediscovered the joy of music and movement through her participation in Teresa Laiz’s Castanet Choir, an unexpected and fulfilling return to her artistic roots. She continues to explore the expressive power of castanets as part of this unique ensemble. Marta Casas Soprano & Castanets soloist Soprano Marta Casas earned her Voice degree from the Escuela Superior de Canto de Madrid and holds a Master’s degree in Musical Research and Performance from Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid, graduating with highest honors. In 2021, she completed a specialization in Flamencology at the University of Córdoba, receiving a perfect score. In addition to her vocal training, Marta studied violoncello for eight years at the conservatory in her hometown. Alongside her musical career, she holds degrees in Law from institutions in both Spain and Italy (Università Statale di Milano) and a Master’s degree in Public Policy Management from Alfonso X University of Madrid, reflecting her broad academic background. Marta is fluent in an exceptional range of languages, including English, French, Italian, Arabic, Portuguese, German, Galician, Hieroglyphics, and Coptic. She has worked with many of the most distinguished figures in the operatic world, including Josep Carreras, Mirella Freni, Mariella Devia, Ana María Sánchez, Manuel Burgueras, Emilio Sagi, Fernando Balboa, José Miguel Pérez-Sierra, María Bayo, and Delfo Menicucci, studying at institutions such as the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi of Milan. Her performance career has taken her to major stages in Spain, Italy, the United States, and Jerusalem, and she has sung for prominent figures, including H.M. Queen Sofía of Spain during her 80th anniversary celebration. Since 2020, Marta has served as a professor at the Higher Conservatory of Music of Castilla-La Mancha. Deeply connected to Spanish musical traditions, Marta completed the full Castanets Method at the Teresa Laiz International Castanet School and is a member of the Madrid Castanet Choir, directed by Teresa Laiz. As both soloist and ensemble singer, she co-founded the Compañía Española de Canto y Palillos with Teresa Laiz. Their collaboration has led to performances in theaters across Spain and internationally, earning two awards at international music competitions. Jenaro Sosa First prize winner in the II International Castanet Competition Jenaro Sosa is a distinguished Mexican dancer, choreographer, director, and teacher specializing in Spanish Dance. He graduated in Classical Ballet from the Yucatán Higher School of Arts and earned a degree in Spanish Dance from the Nellie and Gloria Campobello National Dance School. Since 2014, he has continued his professional training in Spanish dance under the renowned Mexican dancer and pedagogue Pilar Rioja, an experience that has significantly shaped his artistic and pedagogical development. Since 2010, Jenaro has worked extensively as a dancer, choreographer, director, and teacher with various companies and institutions throughout Mexico. His international training includes studies with the Columbus Dance Theater in the United States, under the direction of Seth Wilson and Jaime Kotrba. As a performer, he has appeared on some of Mexico’s most prestigious stages, including the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), the National Center for the Arts, and the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as venues in the United States and Colombia. Jenaro is currently a professor at the Rioja Academy, directed by Pilar Rioja. In February 2024, he was awarded First Prize at the Teresa Laiz International Castanet Competition, marking a significant milestone in his career. Roxana Prast Castanets soloist Dance Teacher & Castanets Soloist After following the traditional path of castanet performance within dance styles such as Sevillanas, Flamenco, and Escuela Bolera (including studies at the Escuela de Flamenco de Andalucía Course in Lisbon), she chose to deepen her specialization in castanets as a solo concert instrument. She pursued advanced studies with renowned castanets soloist Teresa Laiz, earning an Advanced Castanets Diploma recognized by CID–UNESCO. Alongside her performance career, she studied musical notation and has composed approximately 60 original scores, which form the foundation of her unique teaching methodology. A pioneer of concert castanet education in Portugal, she introduced specialized castanet classes and founded the EFO Castanets Choir (Escola Flamenca de Oeiras). Through this ensemble, she trains advanced students and leads them in performances across a variety of concert settings. She is also a member of the Madrid Castanets Choir, directed by Teresa Laiz, where she regularly performs as a soloist. Paloma Aguado Castanets soloist She holds a degree in Veterinary Medicine and began her artistic journey in flamenco dance as an amateur. In 2018, she discovered her passion for castanets, marking the start of her focused musical path. She completed the entire Castanet Method at the Teresa Laiz International Castanets School and has since developed into an active and dedicated performer. She was a semi-finalist in both the 1st and 2nd editions of the “Teresa Laiz” International Castanet Competition in 2023 and 2024. Her performances have taken place in notable venues including Teatro Lara, Teatro de Flamenco de Madrid, Teatro Reina Victoria (Madrid), Iglesia de San Miguel de Brihuega, Monasterio de Santa María de El Paular, and Iglesia de San Ildefonso (Madrid). She is a member of the Madrid Castanet Choir, directed by Teresa Laiz. Together with fellow choir members, she co-founded the ensemble “Al son de las Castañuelas,” through which they offer altruistic performances in nursing homes, bringing music and joy to communities that may not otherwise have access to live concerts. Reema Ayache Castanets soloist She is a high school student with a strong artistic background, raised in a family that deeply values the arts and music. From an early age, Reema developed her own creative voice, expressing herself through a wide range of artistic disciplines. An award-winning visual artist, she demonstrates strong interpretative and creative skills across multiple media, including drawing, painting, and Persian and Arabic calligraphy. Her artwork has been published in both national and international journals, such as the Global Equality for Medical Care Organization International Journal (Volume I), HopeWorks Howard County (2021), and the Americans with Disabilities Art Contest. In addition, she has been commissioned to design logos for various organizations and groups, create album covers, and produce original artwork sold as stickers. Alongside her visual art, Reema is an active and versatile musician. She plays piano, violin, setar (Persian lute), daf, and flute. She is a member of her high school chamber orchestra, serves as Vice President of the Youth of the World Orchestra, and previously held the position of Membership Chair of her school’s Tri-M National Honors Society. In 2023, she began taking online castanet lessons with Teresa Laiz to further develop skills first introduced through flamenco dance. She has since joined the Madrid Castanet Choir, continuing to expand her artistic and musical horizons. Yara Ayache Castanets soloist Yara is currently a university junior for whom music and the arts have been a central and defining force since early childhood. Raised in a deeply artistic environment, she developed a profound appreciation for creative expression through singing, instrumental performance, dance, and collaborative music-making. Her musical studies span a wide range of instruments, including traditional Persian instruments such as the santoor and tombak, as well as piano, violin, and clarinet. Yara’s artistic and leadership accomplishments include serving as marching band drum major and clarinet section leader, performing as an invited guest at university, community, and international events, participating in the Persian National Music Ensemble, and performing with her high school chamber orchestra at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago (2017). She is also the founder and director of the youth volunteer ensemble Youth of the World Orchestra. Introduced early to the expressive depth of flamenco music, Yara began formal flamenco dance training in 2015. She has studied with renowned artists including Edwin Aparicio, Cristobal Reyes, Domingo Ortega, Rapico, Karime Amaya, Farruquito, Alfonso Losa, and Norberto Chamizo, among others, and has performed with various companies and in numerous venues throughout the DC–Maryland–Virginia (DMV) area. Her castanet journey began within the flamenco tradition and deepened in 2021 when she joined Teresa Laiz’s International Castanet School to further refine her technique and musical understanding. Yara is now a proud member of Teresa Laiz’s Castanet Choir and looks forward to continuing to share this expressive art form on stage alongside fellow artists. Carmen Benayas Castanets soloist She is a retired primary school teacher, specializing in English. From a young age, she has nurtured a deep love for music—especially singing—and has been an active member of various choirs throughout her life. Her introduction to castanets began at a senior center, where the instrument was offered as an activity. What started as curiosity quickly became a passion, inspiring her to pursue further study. This journey led her to Teresa Laiz, her current teacher, with whom she has been refining her castanet technique for the past five years. During this time, she has participated in numerous events and performances in cities such as Seville, Guadalajara, and Madrid. Today, she is a proud member of the Madrid Castanet Choir, directed by Teresa Laiz, continuing to share her love for music and this traditional art form on stage. Lola Bernabeu Castanets soloist Lola holds a Degree in Pharmacy and began her castanet studies in 2022 under the guidance of the renowned castanet soloist and pedagogue Teresa Laiz. That same year, she joined the Madrid Castanets Choir, founded and directed by Teresa Laiz. Under Laiz’s direction, Lola has performed a wide-ranging repertoire—including classical, Spanish, and popular music—at prominent venues such as Teatro Flamenco Madrid, the Royal Monastery of Santa María de El Paular, San Ildefonso Church in Madrid, St. Michael’s Church in Brihuega (Guadalajara), Teatro Lara, and Teatro Reina Victoria in Madrid. She has also appeared at the Castanet Soloists, Masters, and Groups Gala during the IX and X International Castanets Festivals. Lola is a student member of the International Dance Council (CID – UNESCO). In addition to her musical pursuits, she is recognized for her talent in realistic charcoal drawing, reflecting her strong artistic sensibility across disciplines. Ana Cristina Dias Castanets soloist Ana Cristina Dias is a Banking Director whose artistic path has been deeply rooted in flamenco and castanet performance for over a decade. She began her flamenco journey in 2007 at Escola Flamenca de Oeiras (EFO), Portugal, studying Flamenco and Sevillanas and actively participating in all school performances and events. In 2012, she expanded her training to include dances with castanets, focusing on Sevillanas, Flamenco, and later the Bolera School. In 2019, Ana Cristina began specializing in Concert Castanets, performing in numerous shows across Portugal. In February 2023, she represented Coro EFO at the 1st International Castanet Competition in Madrid, organized by Teresa Laiz, where the group reached the semi-finals. Later in April and July 2023, she performed as part of a castanet choir with the Porto Salvo Philharmonic Orchestra. Ana Cristina currently studies at the Teresa Laiz International Castanet School and is a proud member of the Madrid Castanet Choir, continuing to refine her artistry and share the concert castanet tradition on international stages. Carmen Fernández Castanets soloist Carmen Fernández’s professional career spans both direct teaching and educational administration. She worked as a high school professor of Geography and History and later as a Technical Teaching Advisor at the Spanish Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Employment. Upon concluding her professional career, Carmen discovered that her long-standing appreciation for music as a listener could evolve into active musical practice through the castanets, a traditional and accessible instrument. In September 2018, she began her studies with Professor Teresa Laiz and completed the full curriculum at the Teresa Laiz International Castanets School. As a member of the Madrid Castanet Choir, directed by Teresa Laiz, Carmen has participated in numerous concerts across various cities and towns throughout Spain. Together with fellow students from the same school, she has taken part in both the I and II International Castanet Competitions, reaching the semi-final stage on both occasions. Carmen is also a member of the ensemble Al son de las Castañuelas, a group dedicated to performing altruistically in nursing homes, bringing music and cultural connection to senior communities. Carmen Gracián Castanets soloist Carmen Gracián is a retired mother of four whose passion for castanets began in her youth, when she participated in a school competition. Although life led her in other directions for many years, her love for the instrument remained. After retiring, Carmen rediscovered castanets by enrolling in a beginner’s course. Her natural musicality and dedication quickly became evident, motivating her to pursue advanced training under the guidance of renowned castanet soloist and pedagogue Teresa Laiz. Over more than five years of focused study, she refined her technique and developed a strong artistic voice. Carmen has performed in numerous events and participated in both the 1st and 2nd Editions of the International Castanet Competition in Madrid. Her commitment and talent earned her a place in the Madrid Castanet Choir, directed by Teresa Laiz, where she continues to share her passion for this traditional art form with audiences. Karolina Pek Castanets soloist Karolina Pek, known artistically as “La Paprika,” is a Slovak-Canadian music educator and performer currently serving as High School Music Director at Shanghai American School in Shanghai, China. She pursued her musical studies in Vancouver, Montreal, and Prague, training as a pianist and French horn player, and later expanded her expertise through conducting studies in Montreal and Vienna. Her growing interest in flamenco dance and percussion led her to become an active participant in Shanghai’s flamenco scene. A pivotal moment in her artistic journey occurred when a visiting Spanish teacher lent her his grandmother’s castanets for a course—an experience that sparked a lasting passion for the instrument. Since then, Karolina has dedicated herself to the study of concert castanets and is currently pursuing the advanced level at the Teresa Laiz Online International Castanet School. She has performed as a castanet soloist in Shanghai and Mexico City and is a proud member of the Madrid Castanet Choir, directed by Teresa Laiz. Through her work as an educator and performer, Karolina continues to bridge cultures, blending classical training with flamenco tradition and contemporary performance practice. Christina Penney Castanets soloist Christina Penney is an engineer and flamenco dancer originally from St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada. She was first introduced to the world of concert castanets in 2016, when she was invited to perform Boccherini’s Fandango with a guitar quartet. For this performance, she received coaching from the esteemed Canadian flamenco artist Carmen Romero. During the pandemic, Christina expanded her studies through virtual learning opportunities and, in 2020, began studying castanets for both Spanish dance and concert performance with renowned flamenco artist Esmeralda Enrique. In 2021, Christina enrolled in Maestra Teresa Laiz’s Online International Castanet School, where she is currently in her third year of the intensive program, working toward professional performance and teaching certification. She is also a member of the Madrid Castanet Choir, directed by Teresa Laiz, and actively continues to develop her artistry in concert castanet performance. Luz Ruiz Castanets soloist A lawyer by profession, Luz Ruiz has maintained a lifelong connection to flamenco and the world of dance. From an early age, she actively participated in performances, including appearances on international stages. For the past five years, she has been dedicated to the study of concert castanets at the Teresa Laiz International Castanet School, deepening her technical mastery and musical expression of this traditional Spanish instrument. Luz is a proud member of the Madrid Castanet Choir, directed by Teresa Laiz, with whom she regularly performs, sharing the artistry of castanets with diverse audiences. Irene Valcárcel Castanets soloist Dance & Castanets Teacher, Dancer, Choreographer, Poet, and Writer, Irene Valcárcel is an accomplished teacher of Spanish classical dance, flamenco, classical ballet, folk dances, and ballroom dance, with over 25 years of experience in various teaching centers. She is the founder, director, and principal instructor at Escuela de Danza Irene Zambra, where she has mentored generations of dancers. As a dancer, choreographer, and director, Irene has led Ballet Español Irene Zambra for 15 years, presenting performances in theaters, cultural centers, and concert halls across Spain. In addition to her work in dance, Irene is a poet and writer, having shared her poetry at Spanish poetry associations, universities, cultural centers, theaters, and on national television (TVE). Her work has also been published in cultural magazines and anthologies. Since 2016, Irene has been studying Concert Castanets under Teresa Laiz and is an active member of the Madrid Castanet Choir, directed by Teresa Laiz. Lourdes Vita Administration Manager, Concert Castanets Performer Born in Granada, Lourdes Vita began performing in amateur flamenco dance groups from an early age. She initially played castanets to accompany dance, and in 2022 began studying concert castanets under renowned teacher Teresa Laiz. Lourdes is currently a member of the Madrid Castanet Choir, founded and directed by Teresa Laiz, performing in prestigious venues such as Teatro Lara and Teatro Reina Victoria in Madrid, within the framework of the IX and X International Castanets Festival. She is also a student member of the International Dance Council (CID – UNESCO).

< Back Previous Edmund Dawe Next Pianist Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall April 30, 2025 WATCH VIDEO From an early age, Edmund Dawe knew that music would be his life’s work. After seven years of what he describes as recreational piano, his serious studies began at fourteen with Andreas Barban in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Eight years later, he graduated from Memorial University with Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Music Education degrees, receiving the University Medal for Music. During this period, he was deeply influenced by pianists Neil van Allen and Maureen Volk, and distinguished himself as a recipient of multiple scholarships and the Senior Rose Bowl at the St. John’s Kiwanis Music Festival. Selected for an external semester at City University and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, UK, Edmund studied with James Gibb and found lasting inspiration in hearing some of the world’s greatest classical musicians in concert. He went on to complete a Master of Music in Piano Performance at Western University, studying with Ronald Turini, pupil of the legendary Vladimir Horowitz. He later earned a Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance at the University of British Columbia under Robert Silverman, becoming the first Memorial University music graduate to earn a doctorate and one of the first two pianists to complete the DMA program at UBC. At both Western and UBC, he was awarded major graduate scholarships. That same year, Edmund was selected internationally for a summer program in France with renowned pianist Cécile Ousset, later continuing private study with her. His education, shaped by teachers from diverse traditions, formed the foundation of his lifelong research interest: international perspectives on the pianist’s art. His scholarly work has taken him to the British Library in London, the Newberry Library in Chicago, the International Piano Archives in College Park, MD, the Juilliard Archives, the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, and the Rachmaninoff Archives at the Library of Congress. From the outset, Edmund’s vision was to combine performance with teaching. While still completing his doctoral degree, he began his academic career as a visiting assistant professor at Memorial University. This marked the beginning of more than three decades of teaching and leadership, during which his students went on to careers as performers, educators, scholars, arts administrators, and community leaders. His university appointments included Memorial University (1986–88), Laurentian University (1988–90), Mount Allison University (1990–2007), and the University of Manitoba (2007–2018). Alongside teaching and administration, Edmund pursued an active performance career, praised for his technical command and artistic depth. He has appeared as soloist and collaborative pianist across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. His performances have been broadcast on CBC Radio, WQXR in New York, and WFMT in Chicago. La Scena Musicale described his playing as “sensitive, engaging and virtuoso.” Two of his recordings—one solo and one duo with pianist Lynn Johnson—were nominated for East Coast Music Awards. At Mount Allison, he twice received the Paul Paré Award for Excellence and co-founded the Atlantic Arts Trio, which toured internationally for over 15 years and commissioned numerous works from leading Canadian composers. His work was supported by research grants and awards from universities, provincial arts councils, the Canada Council, the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, and F.A.C.T.O.R. Edmund’s influence extended beyond his own students. He has adjudicated at over 30 Canadian music festivals, examined young pianists across Atlantic Canada, and served as a Juno Awards juror in the Classical category. A sought-after speaker, he has presented at local, national, and international conferences, including the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers’ Association, the World Piano Pedagogy Conference, and the Australian National Piano Pedagogy Conference. At Mount Allison, Edmund’s leadership as Head of the Department of Music (1997–2003) strengthened the program through faculty appointments, facility upgrades, and renewal of the instrument inventory. In 2007, he was recruited through an international search to become Dean of the Faculty of Music at the University of Manitoba. During his tenure (2007–2018), he oversaw a period of significant growth, including the $75 million renovation and expansion of Taché Hall into state-of-the-art facilities, culminating in the construction of the Desautels Concert Hall. Under his deanship, enrolment rose steadily, new programs were introduced—including the Bachelor of Jazz Studies and an innovative Bachelor of Music in Music Education—and faculty ranks expanded. He played a central role in securing transformative philanthropic support, including a $20 million gift from Marcel A. Desautels, a $1 million gift from the Asper Foundation establishing the Babs Asper Professorship in Jazz Performance, a $1 million gift from Dr. Bonnie Buhler for graduate scholarships, and a $2.5 million gift from Dr. Michael Nesbitt for the Desautels Concert Hall. During his leadership, endowments for student awards and faculty research grew from $2.1 million to $17.9 million, enabling 70% of students to receive scholarships and assistantships. Described as a community builder, Edmund fostered collaborations with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Manitoba Opera, the WSO New Music Festival, the Manitoba Band Association, and the Manitoba Choral Association, creating unique opportunities for students and faculty. His support and presence at countless student and faculty performances became a hallmark of his leadership. Upon retiring in 2018, Edmund was named Dean Emeritus of the University of Manitoba. Today, he devotes himself to performance, teaching, adjudication, lecturing, and continued research on international perspectives in piano pedagogy and performance. His podcast, For Piano Teachers , launched in 2021, now reaches listeners in over 100 countries. He also serves on the Board of Symphony New Brunswick. Edmund and his wife, Karla—an organist and visual artist—reside in Alma, New Brunswick, at the entrance to Fundy National Park. Beyond their professional lives, they enjoy hiking, biking, and time with their three children, their spouses, and four grandchildren. Edmund also serves on the Board of Friends of Fundy, which works to enhance appreciation of the natural and cultural heritage of Fundy National Park and its surrounding communities.

Are you a lyricist? Find out here! Sound Espressivo is the first online LIVE streaming Competition for classical musicians of all ages. Contestants and judges focus on unique artistry of every performer, awarding prizes offered by music management companies. Lyrical Allure with your expression and emotional delivery of the music! In-Depth The voice is known to be the most naturally lyrical instrument due to how much we can feel and hear the connection in the lines of music and the changes in music and sound being so smooth and emotional. This is the root of the goal when trying to deliver a very lyrical performance, as well as having emphasis on delivering power of emotion in combination with a sensation of compassion and connection of what we're hearing to what we're feeling in a very personal way. General Criteria Great Voice Line Control - melody lines and other voices in the music should always be going somewhere and longing to connect and express something, luring the listener to follow its path. Balance - with music having different moments or even voice lines, having a well thought out approach for balancing these in relation to each other and different sections is invaluable Tone and Color - choice of tone type and colors can enhance and enrich the expression of the music Captivating Presence - moving in smooth and elegant ways can compliment the music's smoothness and blissful expression and therefore enhance the captivating elements of being lyrical.

< Back Previous Glen Carter-Varney Next Gala at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall April 1, 2024 WATCH VIDEO Glennis Carter-Varney is an Australian composer, pianist, and educator. She formerly served as Head of Contemporary Keyboard Studies and Lecturer in Piano at the Melba Memorial Conservatorium in Melbourne, and as Music Director at The Scots School in Albury, New South Wales. She also taught class music at Methodist Ladies’ College in Melbourne and directed private music schools in both Melbourne and Brisbane. Carter-Varney’s career has encompassed musical direction, training choirs and madrigal groups, producing musicals, and performing as both solo pianist and recording artist. She studied piano with Waldemar Seidel and composition with John Ingram and Bernard de Oliveira at the Melbourne University Conservatorium before pursuing further piano studies with Norah Newby at the Royal Academy in London. Carter-Varney has appeared in concert and led workshops in both Australia and the United States. She has recorded extensively for ABC and commercial radio, performed as a studio musician in Melbourne’s recording industry, and given numerous ABC radio recitals from studios in Melbourne and Sydney. As part of a duo-piano partnership with her husband, she was featured on several top-rating Australian television programs. Carter-Varney serves as an examiner for both the Australian Music Examinations Board and the Australian Guild of Music Education, and has presented AMEB Contemporary Popular Music workshops throughout Queensland. She has written, published, and recorded a wide catalogue of piano works. Her suite Summer Dreaming, inspired by the painting The Spirits Within by Australian artist Roger Saunders, reflects her ongoing interest in visual art as a source of musical inspiration. The Artamidae, Sonic Fantasy, and Shades of Blue—commissioned for the Keys National Festival for Australian Music and performed by award-winning pianist Andrew Visser—were later included in The Recital Collection and have become popular recital and examination repertoire. Works from her collections Kool Piano, Kool Shades of Blue, and Kool Jazzy Tunes are featured in multiple Australian examination syllabi. Artwork for her publications has been created by Australian artists with designs coordinated by Kathleen Tulley, former Gallery Director in Buderim, Queensland.