WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Each of us in Spektral followed a different path into this improbable life as chamber musicians, but one thing we all share is the unyielding support from our families. Our collaborators for this genealogical blow-out include Clara’s parents (violinist Jim Lyon and cellist Carol Lyon), Maeve’s dad (pianist Alan Feinberg), Doyle’s sister (violist Rose Armbrust Griffin), and Russ’s mom (pianist Jill Johnson).
*Due to necessary precautions taken by the presenter regarding the COVID-19 virus, we are sorry to report that this concert has been cancelled*
We may be longtime friends, or have met only once, but either way, it’s time to introduce you to our families. No, it’s cool, this doesn’t have to mean things are getting too serious too fast, we promise.
Alan Feinberg / Rose Armbrust Griffin / James Lyon
Each of us in Spektral followed a different path into this improbable life as chamber musicians, but one thing we all share is the support from – and unshakable love of – our families. So, as we approach Spektral’s first decade as an ensemble, we figured it was high time you met our nearest and dearest. Clara comes from a musical family, and those of you that caught us at the Ear Taxi Festival got a chance to see her dad, Penn State professor of violin Jim Lyon laying it down on Augusta Read Thomas’s Selene. For this show, you’re in for the double-whammy treat of Jim and Clara’s mom, cellist Carol Lyon.
A young Clara Lyon finds her harmonic flow state
Maeve and Pops unpacking some Milton Babbitt
Maeve’s dad, Alan Feinberg, is noted for giving over 300 premieres by the likes of John Adams, Milton Babbitt, and Steve Reich (you know, no big whoop), so obviously we’re flying him in for this one.
Kyle, Doyle, and Rose Armbrust in era-appropriate dress
Doyle is one of three viola-playing siblings, so strap in for (or at least don’t be scared off by) some viola duo magic with Rose Armbrust Griffin.
Russ knew what audiences wanted from an early age…
And Russ’s mom Jill Johnson is at least partially, well maybe mostly, to blame for his deep love of music given her career as a sought-after piano pedagogue in Washington State. Logically she’ll be on hand to duo with him, and to remind him that he doesn’t call often enough.
If all goes well, two Spektral kids, five-year-olds Clark Rolen and Arthur Armbrust, will open the show with a piano duet. We’ll give you betting types the over-under on that happening as soon as possible.
Musicians don’t materialize miraculously. They are shaped and encouraged (and when necessary, cajoled) by those closest to them. We can’t wait to introduce you to some of the most important people in our lives.
PROGRAM
Excerpts from String Quartet in E-flat Major (1834) – Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel
Excerpts from Piano Quintet in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 67 (1908) – Amy Beach
TBA
Spektral Quartet’s 2019-20 concert season is supported by the generosity of the following foundations. We are so grateful for this funding and the support of the many individuals who give to our organization. If you are interested in supporting our work, please visit spektralquartet.com/donate to learn more.
