Performers

Nora Willauer, cello Marlene McCarthy, piano

In this inventive program, cellist Nora Willauer and pianist Marlene McCarthy explore the sparks of creativity born from close artistic relationships in the 20th century. From the youthful brilliance of Benjamin Britten’s First Cello Suite to the many colors of Maurice Ravel’s Miroirs, and Sonata for Cello and Piano by Dutch composer Henriëtte Bosmans, the duo invites listeners into the space where music and human connection intertwine.

Originally from Hope, ME, much loved artist and educator Nora Willauer has a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the Cleveland Institute of Music. From Farmingdale, ME, and a faculty member of Bay Chamber Music School, pianist Marlene McCarthy has a Doctorate of Musical Arts from Stony Brook University and is a former adjunct instructor at NYU’s Steinhardt School.

Nora says each piece in their Midday Music program carries “a spicy compositional history.” Through storytelling between pieces, Nora and Marlene lay out how these masterpieces emerged from artistic friendships, love, and collaboration. A rich hour of music and discovery awaits.

Coffee and cookies served before the concert.

Program

BENJAMIN BRITTEN - Cello Suite No. 1, Op. 72 I. Canto primo. Sostenuto e largamente II.Fuga. Andante moderato III.Lamento. Lento rubato IV.Canto secondo. Sostenuto VIII.Bordone. Moderato quasi recitativo IX.Moto perpetuo e Canto quarto. Presto MAURICE RAVEL - Miroirs - Oiseaux tristes (sad birds) - Une barque sur l'océan (A boat in the ocean) - Alborada del gracioso (The jester’s aubade)
HENRIËTTE BOSMANS - Sonata for Cello and Piano in A minor I. Allegro Maestoso II. Un poco Allegretto III. Adagio IV: Allegro molto e con fuoco

Tickets: Age 35+: $32 | 22-34: $20 | 21 & Under: Pay What You Wish.

KNOW THE ARTIST Cellist Nora Willauer says each piece of music in Strings Attached's Midday Music program carries “a spicy compositional history.” What does that mean? In this case, every composition featured in this unique concert emerged from collaboration between friends and sometimes romantic partners. In many cases, composers were inspired by friends to whom the pieces were often dedicated. What they all shared was a burst of creativity born of the partnerships.

Through storytelling between pieces, Nora and pianist Marlene McCarthy lay out how 20th century masterpieces, such as Benjamin Britten’s First Cello Suite, emerged from friendship, love, and connection. Nora and pianist Marlene explore these sparks of creativity from the youthful brilliance of Britten’s suite to the many colors of Maurice Ravel’s Miroirs, and Sonata for Cello & Piano by Dutch composer Henriëtte Bosmans.

"Strings Attached weaves storytelling throughout this program and invites audiences to experience each work through the lens of the friendships and romances that sparked its creation," says Nora. "Great works of art and human connection are often deeply intertwined, and Strings Attached gives audiences a chance to learn the fascinating history that lead to this beautifully emotional music."

Originally from Hope, Maine, much loved artist and educator Nora has a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the Cleveland Institute of Music. From Farmingdale, Maine, and a faculty member of Bay Chamber Music School, pianist Marlene has a Doctorate of Musical Arts from Stony Brook University.