Antonín Dvořák (1841-1904) wrote some of the most likable music in the classical repertoire. From his nine symphonies and operas to his copious amount of piano music, sacred choral works and significant body of chamber works, Dvořák’s genius overflowed with memorable melodies. And even when there’s a melancholy strain in his music, as there often is, one senses Dvořák’s optimism and ultimate belief in the goodness of the universe

Adam Neiman composed his Serenade for Violin and Piano in 2013 as a birthday gift for his wife, Ariella Siu-Yin Mak-Neiman. The work is unapologetically romantic and very much inspired by the venerable tradition of nostalgic encore works by such composers as Tchaikovsky, Elgar, and Kreisler. Thematically simple, the composition unfolds as an expansive narrative that begins softly and poetically, reaches ecstatic heights, and ultimately disperses in semi-mystic peace and tranquility. 

Wildfires are raging, torrential rains are flooding the lowlands, melting glaciers are submerging coastlines and heatwaves are baking the landscape. A modern-day plague kills millions of people while nuclear powers rattle their sabers and threaten the world with annihilation.  In these scary and foreboding times, the medieval chant Dies Irae resonates more than ever.

Guarneri Hall's “pin-drop” acoustics make it an ideal environment for master classes. In fact, master classes have become an integral part of each season, always open to the public and live streamed on our website. 

A great classical music performance has us marveling at the power of the music and the artistry of the orchestra or ensemble on stage. But what transpired beforehand to enable the musicians to collectively deliver the performance we are hearing?