The University of New Orleans School of the Arts announced that the fall schedule of the 2018-19 Musical Excursions series will feature the Aizuri Quartet on Sept. 26, Project Fusion on Oct. 11, Jennifer Koh on Oct. 15 and the New Zealand String Quartet on Nov. 8. All concerts will take place at 7 p.m. in the Recital Hall inside of the Performing Arts Center on UNO’s campus.
Praised by The Washington Post as “captivating,” the Aizuri Quartet was awarded the prestigious $100,000 grand prize at the 2018 M Prize Chamber Arts Competition and first prize at the 2017 Osaka International Chamber Music Competition in Japan. Through its engaging and thought-provoking programs, the quartet has garnered critical acclaim for bringing “a technical bravado and emotional power” to bold new commissions, according to The San Diego Union-Tribune.
Winner of the 2015 Astral Artist National Auditions, Project Fusion was formed in 2010 by graduates of the Eastman School of Music. The ensemble is known for its diverse musical programming that includes new music and standard repertoire for the saxophone quartet, as well as arrangements and transcriptions. The quartet has captured top prizes in some of the world’s most prestigious chamber music competitions.
Violinist Jennifer Koh is recognized for her intense and commanding performances, delivered with dazzling virtuosity and technical assurance. An adventurous musician, she collaborates with artists of multiple disciplines and curates projects that find connections between music of all eras from traditional to contemporary. She has premiered more than 60 works written especially for her.
The New Zealand String Quartet has established an international reputation for its insightful interpretations, compelling communication and dynamic performing style. Over the decades, the quartet has cultivated a rich repertoire, including a wide variety of New Zealand music and composers from Beethoven and Bartok to Mozart and Berg.
Ticket prices are $15 for general admission, $10 for UNO alumni and seniors, and free to all UNO employees and students. In order to guarantee a seat, purchase or register for your ticket here. Please bring the appropriate ID if you have registered for a free ticket.
The highly regarded Musical Excursions series has showcased first-class classical and world music since 1993. The series is presented by the UNO School of the Arts in conjunction with the Department of Music and the Arts Administration program, and in partnership with 89.9 WWNO Radio. The sponsors for the 2018-19 series are: UNO Student Government, the Mitchiner-Gittinger Family Foundation, the Harper Family Foundation, the Maison Dupuy Hotel and Muriel’s Jackson Square Restaurant.
The University of New Orleans School of the Arts brings together five arts disciplines: arts administration, film, music, theatre, and visual arts, to expand on UNO’s rich arts traditions, share resources and training across disciplines and address 21st century career challenges.
