SHMUEL ASHKENASI MOZART VIOLIN CONCERTO NO. 5 CD

Listen to these excerpts:

This Mozart Violin Concerto No 5 CD is a re-release of Shmuel Ashkenasi’s wonderful recording of the work with Camerata Chicago in 2006.

The music of Mozart, of which Mr. Ashkenasi is one of the world’s finest exponents, is recorded here live. You will hear a truly Mozartian rendition of the 5th violin concerto while Shmuel Ashkenasi brings his own unique blend of fire and eloquent nuance to this youthful work. Conducting on this recording is English Maestro, Drostan Hall, our Music Director and Conductor, who studied under Shmuel Ashkenasi at Northern Illinois University and worked with him on this concert series to celebrate 250 years of Mozart’s birth. A further delight will be Mozart’s Symphony No. 29 performed by Camerata Chicago in the same year.

Suggested minimum donation: $20 or more

ASHKENASI CONCERTS APRIL 2018

Shmuel Ashkenasi performed the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto with Camerata Chicago in 2018 on April 6 (Chicago) and April 7 (Wheaton). See further information about these concerts.

MOZART SYMPHONIES CD

This Mozart Symphonies CD features two of Mozart’s most famous works, both in G Minor. Symphony No. 25 was recorded by Eric Arunas on January 28, 2017 and Symphony No. 40 was recorded on April 29, 2016.

“The two Mozart symphonies on this CD are breathtakingly performed by Maestro Hall and his Camerata Chicago. The music is delivered with great vivacity and bounce, with brisk tempi that never seem too fast but are always energetic. The slow movements are played with grace and a deeply felt passion that engages the listeners at all times and Maestro Hall’s exquisite understanding of the 18th Century style is palpable throughout. The recording itself is beautifully and richly captured by Eric Arunas, one of the finest classical music engineers in the country.  Recordings of these symphonies have been made by the greatest orchestras in the world but it would be difficult to find one as good as this one.” Steve Robinson, Former Executive Vice President, 98.7WFMT.

Suggested minimum donation: $20 or more

SWEETEST DAY COLLECTION

Sweetest Day – Music for the One You Love

This Sweetest Day CD features Amelia Piscitelli, 15 year old violin prodigy, performing Svendsen’s beautiful Romance with the Camerata Chicago orchestra.

Mathias Tacke and Rose Armbrust perform the lovely lryical and romatic Atterberg Suite for Violin and Viola. Also included are favorites such as Elgar’s Serenade for Strings and Variations on Thaxted by Blumhofer.

“The concert you just heard is as fine a concert that you will hear anywhere, not [just] in Chicago, but anywhere in the world – it’s a fabulous ensemble.”
Steve Robinson, Former Executive Vice President, 98.7WFMT. (Speech October 14, 2016).

Suggested minimum donation: $20 or more

FERDINAND & FRIENDS CD CLASSIC CHILDREN’S STORY

This enchanting CD features the classic tale about Ferdinand the Bull by Munro Leaf. The story has been set to music by Alan Ridout and is written for solo violin and narrator. Kids will have a wonderful time following along in the book as they listen to this captivating story and identify the musical themes that go along with each of the enjoyable characters.
Also included on the CD are some of the best-known selections from Carnival Of The Animals and other favorites like The Flight Of The Bumble Bee, The Puppet Show, and The Laughing Violin. Each selection is played by solo violin, cello, or double bass, all with piano accompaniment. The performances are flawless. Each piece is introduced by a narrator who asks us to listen for certain things in the piece or delights us with amusing poetry from Ogden Nash and others. It’s an absolutely delightful experience.

“This unique children’s CD is one of the best I have heard.” David Taylor, Associate Concert Master, Chicago Symphony Orchestra

“Provides an excellent way of introducing music to children in a style that is unique and stimulating.” Late Sir Charles Mackerras, Former Principal Guest Conductor Emeritus, San Francisco Opera

“Composer Alan Ridout and violinist Drostan Hall have combined their talents to create a story with music which children will enjoy listening to again and again. The quality of the recording and performance is excellent.” Kathleen Spring, Suzuki Journal

Suggested minimum donation: $25 or more CD and Book Gift Set
Suggested minimum donation: $20 or more CD