This preview has been provided by Music for a Great Space.
The mission of Music for a Great Space is to present concerts at some of the most acoustically interesting venues in Greensboro, but also to bring the most talented, engaging, and personable artists to the Triad. Their next guest artist, pianist Alpin Hong, described as “Classical for the iPod Generation” (Ocala Star-Banner), fits that description for certain.
Mr. Hong’s biography reads, “Rooted in extensive classical training [he is a graduate of The Juilliard School] and a background in skateboarding, snowboarding, martial arts, and video games, Mr. Hong is a creative force unmatched in his youthful vivacity and boundless energy.” This energy and talent moved Music for a Great Space supporter Dr. Judie Wright to sponsor part of his visit, enabling the non-profit to provide an educational opportunity for the students at Weaver Academy for the Performing and Visual Arts and Advanced Technology.
Alpin Hong is appearing on the Music for a Great Space series on the recommendation of Executive Director Rebecca Libera. “Four years ago, my husband, Matt, and I were living in Phoenix and went to a concert given by Mr. Hong. We’re both performing musicians, and while we always strive to give great performances, we know how rare it is to leave the audience ‘blown away’ by a concert. Well, Alpin Hong’s concert was like a hurricane – we even stayed after to have him sign a CD for us!”
Upon moving back to the Triad and becoming involved with Music for a Great Space, Libera suggested that MGS Artistic Director Lucy Ingram consider Mr. Hong for a concert. “I fell in love with Alpin Hong’s recordings,” says Ingram. “And when I found out that he also is a fantastic teacher, I knew we had to bring him to Greensboro.” On Friday morning, Mr. Hong will perform a short recital, answer questions, and teach students at Weaver Academy.
Hong’s evening performance on Friday February 7 and 7:30pm at Christ United Methodist Church will feature works by Mozart, Mendelssohn, Kreisler, and Chopin. As winner of the Stravinsky Piano Competition, as well as the Concert Artist’s Guild Competition, Mr. Hong is known for giving stunning performances of 20th Century works, and he will conclude his program with George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue.
Tickets for the evening concert will be available at the door and in advance at www.musicforagreatspace.org or through the Carolina Theatre Box Office at (336) 333-2605. Adults $18, seniors $15, student $5. Each ticket holder may bring two young people age 16 and under for free. Season tickets and flex passes are also available. Free babysitting is available for this event. Request babysitting at least 48 hours in advance at www.musicforagreatspace.org or call (336) 638-7624.
About Music for a Great Space
Music for a Great Space (MGS) is an independent non-profit musical arts organization bringing the finest musicians to the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina. The mission of Music for a Great Space is to present a series of inspiring musical performances and educational offerings, opening doors to the diverse cultural interests of the Piedmont Triad community. Learn more at www.musicforagreatspace.org.
The work of Music for a Great Space is made possible with funding from ArtsGreensboro and the N.C. Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Resources.
