piano series — Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 3, 2019

Corvallis-OSU Piano International presents “Noche de Alma Latinoamericana” Oct. 20

By Zachary C. Person

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Corvallis-OSU Piano International presents the third annual “Noche de Alma Latinoamericana” on Sunday, October 19 from 2:00 – 5:30 p.m. at The LaSells Stewart Center, 875 SW 26th St., Corvallis.

The free, family-friendly event is dedicated to bringing together classical and folk traditions of Latin America. This year’s theme is “Dia de los Muertos” (Day of the Dead), and attendees are invited and encourage to dress in traditional clothing.

Pianists William Villaverde and Fabiana Claure are the featured performers. The husband-wife duo, who are from Cuba and Bolivia respectively, present “A Piano Journey Through Latin America” featuring works such as Bolivian “Cuecas”, Brazilian tangos, classical and jazz-inspired Cuban music, and a four-hand piano arrangement of Astor Piazzolla’s “Tango Suite.”

Local youth musicians Amaia Arismendi (piano), Isaac Heredia (piano), Kai Frueh (piano), Ben Frueh (violin), Elsa Moreno (voice) and Jesus Moreno (guitar) will also present a performance during the festival.

The complete festival schedule of events includes:

· 2:00-5:00 p.m. – Corvallis Arts Center Activities (Dia de los Muertos) (Giustina Gallery)

· 2:00-2:30 p.m. – Dancing Workshop (Giustina Gallery)

· 2:30-3:15 p.m. – Local young musicians perform (Austin Auditorium)

· 4:00-5:00 p.m. – Claure and Villaverde piano duo performs (Austin Auditorium)

· 5:00-5:30 p.m. – Pan dulce and champurrado refreshments (Giustina Gallery)

“Noche de Latinoamericana” is free and open to the public. No tickets are required. To request accommodations relating to a disability please call (541) 758-0036, preferably at least one week in advance.

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About Corvallis-OSU Piano International: Corvallis-OSU Piano International furthers the appreciation and celebration of piano music and performance in our community by providing high-quality performances, outreach opportunities and educational programs. COPI presents the Steinway Piano Series, an annual concert series featuring world-class performers. Children’s concerts, master classes, lectures and a jazz series also serve as part of a mission to bring people together in a culture of piano through performance, education and advocacy.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pianist Alpin Hong presents ‘Masters of Metamorphosis’ lecture-concert March 1

By Zachary C. Person

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Pianist Alpin Hong presents “Masters of Metamorphosis” as part of the Corvallis-OSU Piano International Insights at the Piano series at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, March 1 at First Presbyterian Church, 114 SW 8th St, Corvallis.

The program features several theme and variation sets, including “Desperate Measures” by Robert Muczynski and Modest Mussorgsky’s well-known “Pictures at an Exhibition.”

Hong is a sought-after musician known for his powerful performances and engaging style. Equally at home in a variety of contexts, he has performed in recital at New York’s Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall, as soloist with symphony orchestras throughout the country, and has collaborated with rock bands in an effort to redefine the modern classical concert experience.

He brings a rare combination of world-class piano technique, an audience-engaging presence, and a background in extreme sports, martial arts and video games to the concert stage. In addition to his concert activities, Hong has presented a TEDx talk titled “Transform Yourself Into a Performer” and is regularly featured as a keynote speaker for philanthropic and educational events across the United States.

Hong will also perform George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” on Saturday, March 2 at 2:00 p.m. at the Corvallis-Benton County Library as part of the “People and Pianos Day” hosted by Corvallis-OSU Piano International. The event is free and open to the public.

Tickets $10 in advance, $15 door. Advance tickets are available online at corvallispiano.org or locally at Grass Roots Books & Music. Youth ages 8-18 and all college students with valid ID admitted free. CAFA discounts apply, valid for purchase of up to two $5 tickets at The LaSells Stewart Center starting one hour prior to the concert with SNAP card. Accommodations relating to a disability may be made by calling 541-758-0036, preferably at least one week in advance.

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