Instrumental Ensemble

Feel the dynamic energy of the Wynton Marsalis Septet on Sept. 5! These musicians are true storytellers, with their instruments serving as extensions of their spirit. Don't miss an unforgettable performance. This concert will be presented without the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra.

The first concert of CMR's 83rd Season explores three masterpieces of the string octet repertoire with two award-winning quartets: Verona Quartet and Borromeo Quartet will perform Enescu’s Octet for Strings, Op. 7; Shostakovich’s Two Pieces for String Octet, Op. 11; and Mendelssohn’s Octet for Strings, Op. 20.

Lithuanian pianist Ieva Jokubaviciute’s powerfully and intricately crafted performances have earned her critical acclaim throughout North America and Europe. Her ability to communicate the essential substance of a work has led critics to describe her as possessing ‘razor-sharp intelligence and wit' and ‘subtle, complex, almost impossibly detailed and riveting in every way’ (The Washington Post) and as ‘an artist of commanding technique, refined temperament and persuasive insight.’(The New York Times). In 2006, she was honored as a recipient of a Borletti-Buitoni Trust Fellowship. The New York Times described violinist Jennifer Curtis’s second solo concert in Carnegie Hall as “one of the gutsiest and most individual recital programs.” She was celebrated as “an artist of keen intelligence and taste, well worth watching out for.” A “long-admired figure on the New York scene,” (The New Yorker), cellist Michael Nicolas enjoys a diverse career as chamber musician, soloist, recording artist, and improvisor. He is the cellist of the intrepid and genre-defying string quartet Brooklyn Rider, which has drawn praise from classical, world music, and rock critics alike. As a member of the acclaimed International Contemporary Ensemble (ICE), he has worked with countless composers from around the world, premiering and recording dozens of new works.

Experience the evolution of Black Violin from their humble beginnings to widespread acclaim with a show that promises to leave you feeling inspired, energized, and uplifted. Kev Marcus and Wil Baptiste take the stage, along with Nat Stokes on drums, DJ SPS on the turntable, and Liston Gregory on the keys - blending classical strings with hip-hop beats through a performance that defies expectations and redefines genres.