BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Connecticut Virtuosi - ECPv6.2.9//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://thevirtuosi.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Connecticut Virtuosi REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T180000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20260409T175613Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260409T181100Z UID:12307-1776621600-1776621600@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:ORGAN @ CYRIL: Easter Music Celebration DESCRIPTION:Featuring Historic 1938 Austin Pipe Organ \n\nIn Program: \nEaster Songs for Chorus\, organ & Strings\nwith the Moniuszko Choir \nPerformance by the Students\nof the Virtuosi Music Academy \nSelection of works for Organ and Voice\nwith mezzo-soprano Rebecca Almeida \nProgram sponsored in part by Marjorie Jolidon Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving \n\n \nMoniuszko Choir\nBrazilian Mezzo-Soprano Rebecca de Almeida brings an exhilarating presence and transparent energy to the stage. A native of Rio de Janeiro\, Brazil\, Rebecca has performed a wide variety of roles throughout the US and Europe. Rebecca Almeida’s achievements include 1st prize at XXVI Concurso Latino Americano Rosa Mística\, II Concurso Nacional Jovem Destaque\, two times winner of ‘Concurso Villa Lobos’ as well as 2nd prize at 20º Concurso de Piano ArtLivre – Prova Estímulo\, performances at renowned venues such as Teatro Municipal de Niterói and CCBB in Brasil\, and The Garde at New London\, CT. Rebecca actively performs in New England with VIRTUOSI OPERA\, Hartford Opera Theatre\, and East Coast Chamber Orchestra. URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/2024-02-23-2/ LOCATION:Cyril and Methodius Church\, 63 Popieluszko Court\, Hartford\, Connecticut\, 06106 CATEGORIES:2025-2026 Season,2025-2026 Season,Cyril & Methodius Church,Hartford,Organ Music @ Cyril ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Organ-Cyril-photo-web-e1726585289682.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260308T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260308T170000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20250903T161923Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T231327Z UID:11990-1772982000-1772989200@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:Splendor of Italian Baroque DESCRIPTION:The Connecticut Virtuosi & the members of Orchestra “Il Contrapunto” from Empoli (Italy) in performance of the most beautiful Italian baroque concertos. \nIn Program:\nGiuseppe Valentini: Concerto in A minor for 4 violins\, Op.7 No.11\nGiuseppe Tartini: Violin Concerto in A major\, GT 1.A09\nAntonio Vivaldi:\nConcerto For Harpsichord\, Strings and Continuo RV 780\nConcerto for 4 Violins in E minor\, RV 550 (from L’estro armonico\, Op.3)\nViolin Concerto in E major\, RV 269 “The Spring” \nFor the EVENT admission info CLICK HERE >>> \n\nAbout the Soloists: \nArtistic Director of Orchestra “Il Contrapunto” from Empoli\, Italian violinist Damiano Tognetti began musical studies at the age of seven with Maestro A.Fornai and graduated in 2001 from the “Boccherini” Musical Institute in Lucca under the guidance of Maestro A.Bologni. He was first violin and soloist of the institute’s orchestra. Having perfected his skills at the Fiesole Music School\, he was the winner of several national competitions. Already a member of the Cherubini Orchestra of Piacenza directed by Riccardo Multi\, he collaborates with various orchestras including Orchestra del Teatro Massimo di Palermo\, Orchestra da Camera Fiorentina\, Orchestra Regionale of the Emilia Romagna Tuscan Foundation\, Orchestra of Padua and Veneto\, Venetian Regional Orchestra. \nA principal member of the Orchestra “Il Contrapunto” Giacomo Benedetti is a dynamic Florentine musician celebrated for his versatility as organist\, pianist\, harpsichordist\, cymbalist\, and choir director. Trained at the Cherubini Conservatory and enriched by studies with masters such as Matteo Imbruno and Gustav Leonhardt\, he performs widely across Europe\, Japan\, Mexico\, and the United States. He has held prestigious church posts in Florence\, collaborates with Maggio Musicale Fiorentino\, and appears with ensembles including Florence Sinfonietta\, Armonia Ricercata\, and Ensemble San Felice. A prizewinning competitor and passionate continuo player\, Benedetti brings vibrant artistry to festivals\, orchestras\, and historic venues throughout Italy and abroad. \nThe Concert-master of the Connecticut Virtuosi Albanian‑American violinist Brunilda Myftaraj has earned enthusiastic praise for her expressive musicianship across Europe\, Israel\, Morocco\, and the United States. Critics\, including The New London Day\, describe her as an “especially fine and beautiful player.” Her albums Naked Violin and The American Pie received outstanding reviews in Fanfare magazine\, highlighting her inspired performances and masterful Bach interpretations. She contributed to the award‑winning Love’s Tango project and serves as Concertmaster of the Greve Opera Festival. Myftaraj also directs the Virtuosi Music Academy and Summer Music Institute in Farmington\, teaching violin and chamber music. \n \nViolinist Stephanie M. Ruddy performs throughout Connecticut as an orchestral musician\, chamber artist\, and soloist. She is a member of the Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra and has appeared with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra\, the New Britain Symphony Orchestra\, and the Connecticut Symphony Orchestra. She is a founding member of the Musa String Quartet. A devoted interpreter of Baroque repertoire\, she performed with the Hartt Collegium Musicum\, studying performance practice with Emlyn Ngai. Stephanie holds both a B.F.A. and Graduate Professional Diploma in Violin Performance from the University of Hartford\, where she studied with Anton Miller and Katie Lansdale. She is also a Suzuki violin instructor\, teaching from her home studio in Litchfield\, Connecticut. URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/virtuosi-ditalia-2/ LOCATION:New Britain Museum of American Art\, 56 Lexington St.\, New Britain\, CT\, 06052 CATEGORIES:“We the People” Immigrant Stories in Music,2025-2026 Season,New Britain,The New Britain Museum of American Art ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/46946IMG_musica_b.png ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra":MAILTO:info@thevirtuosi.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260307T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260307T200000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20260206T141956Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T231054Z UID:12195-1772913600-1772913600@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:Splendor of Italian Baroque DESCRIPTION:The Connecticut Virtuosi & the members of Orchestra “Il Contrapunto” from Empoli (Italy) in performance of the most beautiful Italian baroque concertos. \nIn Program:\nGiuseppe Valentini: Concerto in A minor for 4 violins\, Op.7 No.11\nGiuseppe Tartini: Violin Concerto in A major\, GT 1.A09\nAntonio Vivaldi:\nConcerto For Harpsichord\, Strings and Continuo RV 780\nConcerto for 4 Violins in E minor\, RV 550 (from L’estro armonico\, Op.3)\nViolin Concerto in E major\, RV 269 “The Spring” \nAdmission by the Suggested Donation: $25\nDonate Now \n\nAbout the Soloists: \nArtistic Director of Orchestra “Il Contrapunto” from Empoli\, Italian violinist Damiano Tognetti began musical studies at the age of seven with Maestro A.Fornai and graduated in 2001 from the “Boccherini” Musical Institute in Lucca under the guidance of Maestro A.Bologni. He was first violin and soloist of the institute’s orchestra. Having perfected his skills at the Fiesole Music School\, he was the winner of several national competitions. Already a member of the Cherubini Orchestra of Piacenza directed by Riccardo Multi\, he collaborates with various orchestras including Orchestra del Teatro Massimo di Palermo\, Orchestra da Camera Fiorentina\, Orchestra Regionale of the Emilia Romagna Tuscan Foundation\, Orchestra of Padua and Veneto\, Venetian Regional Orchestra. \nA principal member of the Orchestra “Il Contrapunto” Giacomo Benedetti is a dynamic Florentine musician celebrated for his versatility as organist\, pianist\, harpsichordist\, cymbalist\, and choir director. Trained at the Cherubini Conservatory and enriched by studies with masters such as Matteo Imbruno and Gustav Leonhardt\, he performs widely across Europe\, Japan\, Mexico\, and the United States. He has held prestigious church posts in Florence\, collaborates with Maggio Musicale Fiorentino\, and appears with ensembles including Florence Sinfonietta\, Armonia Ricercata\, and Ensemble San Felice. A prizewinning competitor and passionate continuo player\, Benedetti brings vibrant artistry to festivals\, orchestras\, and historic venues throughout Italy and abroad. \nThe Concert-master of the Connecticut Virtuosi Albanian‑American violinist Brunilda Myftaraj has earned enthusiastic praise for her expressive musicianship across Europe\, Israel\, Morocco\, and the United States. Critics\, including The New London Day\, describe her as an “especially fine and beautiful player.” Her albums Naked Violin and The American Pie received outstanding reviews in Fanfare magazine\, highlighting her inspired performances and masterful Bach interpretations. She contributed to the award‑winning Love’s Tango project and serves as Concertmaster of the Greve Opera Festival. Myftaraj also directs the Virtuosi Music Academy and Summer Music Institute in Farmington\, teaching violin and chamber music. \n \nViolinist Stephanie M. Ruddy performs throughout Connecticut as an orchestral musician\, chamber artist\, and soloist. She is a member of the Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra and has appeared with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra\, the New Britain Symphony Orchestra\, and the Connecticut Symphony Orchestra. She is a founding member of the Musa String Quartet. A devoted interpreter of Baroque repertoire\, she performed with the Hartt Collegium Musicum\, studying performance practice with Emlyn Ngai. Stephanie holds both a B.F.A. and Graduate Professional Diploma in Violin Performance from the University of Hartford\, where she studied with Anton Miller and Katie Lansdale. She is also a Suzuki violin instructor\, teaching from her home studio in Litchfield\, Connecticut. \n  URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/2026_03_07/ LOCATION:St. Rose of Lima R.C. Church\, 269 Parkville Ave\, Brooklyn\, NY CATEGORIES:“We the People” Immigrant Stories in Music,2025-2026 Season,New Britain,The New Britain Museum of American Art ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/baroque-musicians-copy.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra":MAILTO:info@thevirtuosi.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260305T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260305T193000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20250903T161807Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T231259Z UID:11988-1772739000-1772739000@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:Splendor of Italian Baroque DESCRIPTION:The Connecticut Virtuosi & the members of Orchestra “Il Contrapunto” from Empoli (Italy) in performance of the most beautiful Italian baroque concertos. \nIn Program:\nGiuseppe Valentini: Concerto in A minor for 4 violins\, Op.7 No.11\nGiuseppe Tartini: Violin Concerto in A major\, GT 1.A09\nAntonio Vivaldi:\nConcerto For Harpsichord\, Strings and Continuo RV 780\nConcerto for 4 Violins in E minor\, RV 550 (from L’estro armonico\, Op.3)\nViolin Concerto in E major\, RV 269 “The Spring” \nTickets:\nGeneral Admission: $29.00\, Senior: $19.00\, Student: $5.00 \nBuy Tickets \n\nAbout the Soloists: \nArtistic Director of Orchestra “Il Contrapunto” from Empoli\, Italian violinist Damiano Tognetti began musical studies at the age of seven with Maestro A.Fornai and graduated in 2001 from the “Boccherini” Musical Institute in Lucca under the guidance of Maestro A.Bologni. He was first violin and soloist of the institute’s orchestra. Having perfected his skills at the Fiesole Music School\, he was the winner of several national competitions. Already a member of the Cherubini Orchestra of Piacenza directed by Riccardo Multi\, he collaborates with various orchestras including Orchestra del Teatro Massimo di Palermo\, Orchestra da Camera Fiorentina\, Orchestra Regionale of the Emilia Romagna Tuscan Foundation\, Orchestra of Padua and Veneto\, Venetian Regional Orchestra. \nA principal member of the Orchestra “Il Contrapunto” Giacomo Benedetti is a dynamic Florentine musician celebrated for his versatility as organist\, pianist\, harpsichordist\, cymbalist\, and choir director. Trained at the Cherubini Conservatory and enriched by studies with masters such as Matteo Imbruno and Gustav Leonhardt\, he performs widely across Europe\, Japan\, Mexico\, and the United States. He has held prestigious church posts in Florence\, collaborates with Maggio Musicale Fiorentino\, and appears with ensembles including Florence Sinfonietta\, Armonia Ricercata\, and Ensemble San Felice. A prizewinning competitor and passionate continuo player\, Benedetti brings vibrant artistry to festivals\, orchestras\, and historic venues throughout Italy and abroad. \nThe Concert-master of the Connecticut Virtuosi Albanian‑American violinist Brunilda Myftaraj has earned enthusiastic praise for her expressive musicianship across Europe\, Israel\, Morocco\, and the United States. Critics\, including The New London Day\, describe her as an “especially fine and beautiful player.” Her albums Naked Violin and The American Pie received outstanding reviews in Fanfare magazine\, highlighting her inspired performances and masterful Bach interpretations. She contributed to the award‑winning Love’s Tango project and serves as Concertmaster of the Greve Opera Festival. Myftaraj also directs the Virtuosi Music Academy and Summer Music Institute in Farmington\, teaching violin and chamber music. \n \nViolinist Stephanie M. Ruddy performs throughout Connecticut as an orchestral musician\, chamber artist\, and soloist. She is a member of the Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra and has appeared with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra\, the New Britain Symphony Orchestra\, and the Connecticut Symphony Orchestra. She is a founding member of the Musa String Quartet. A devoted interpreter of Baroque repertoire\, she performed with the Hartt Collegium Musicum\, studying performance practice with Emlyn Ngai. Stephanie holds both a B.F.A. and Graduate Professional Diploma in Violin Performance from the University of Hartford\, where she studied with Anton Miller and Katie Lansdale. She is also a Suzuki violin instructor\, teaching from her home studio in Litchfield\, Connecticut. URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/virtuosi-ditalia/ LOCATION:First Presbyterian Church in Hartford\, 136 Capitol Ave\, Hartford\, CT\, 06105 CATEGORIES:“We the People” Immigrant Stories in Music,2025-2026 Season,Hartford ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/515493393_748092611474649_4355980986204378999_n-2-copy.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra":MAILTO:info@thevirtuosi.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251221T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251221T160000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20250903T161135Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251217T181440Z UID:11984-1766332800-1766332800@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:Annual Polish Christmas Concert DESCRIPTION:In Program: \nKarol Szymanowski: Arrangements of Polish Folk Songs\nHenry Wieniawski: Selected pieces\nErnesto Ferreri: “A Nocturn for Violin & String Orchestra” (World Premiere)\nEdward Grieg: Holberg Suite (Selections)\nTraditional Polish Christmas Carols\nwith the Moniuszko Choir (arr. Kowalewski\, Sylveen) \nSoloists: Michael Schiano\, accordion\, Patrycja Posluszna\, soprano \nMichael Jude Schiano is Associate Professor of Music Theory at the University of Hartford\, having studied at Princeton\, London\, and Brandeis University.\nHe is originally from Brooklyn\, New York\, and has performed as accordionist with Connecticut Virtuosi and the Hartford Symphony Orchestra.\nHe lives in Simsbury\, Connecticut with his other half\, Carolyn. \n \nPatrycja Posluszna is a Polish-American soprano based in New York City. She earned her\nBachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from the Conservatory of Music at Brooklyn College in\n2023\, where she studied with Jack LiVigni. Her stage credits at Brooklyn College include\nAmore\, First Soldier\, and Athena in L’incoronazione di Poppea\, as well as the First Witch in\nDido and Aeneas. In the summers of 2022 and 2023\, Patrycja attended the Mediterranean Opera\nStudio and Festival in Sicily\, Italy\, appearing in concerts and fully staged productions\, including\nLauretta in Gianni Schicchi. In 2024 and 2025\, she was selected to join the prestigious Institute\nfor Young Dramatic Voices under the direction of Dolora Zajick. Patrycja regularly performs at\nhigh-profile events for the Polish Consulate in New York City\, the Embassy of Poland in\nWashington D.C.\, the Residence of the EU Ambassador\, and other prominent Polish cultural\norganizations. Patrycja recently began her Master of Music studies at the Manhattan School of\nMusic\, studying under Jack LiVigni. She will perform the title role in a scene program of\nMireille in Fall 2025\, and perform the role Micaëla in Carmen in Spring 2026. \n  URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/annual-polish-christmas-concert/ LOCATION:Torp Theater\, Central Connecticut State University\, 1615 Stanley Street\, New Britain\, CT\, 06050\, United States CATEGORIES:“We the People” Immigrant Stories in Music,2025-2026 Season,New Britain ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025-CCSU-Concert-Postcard-copy-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251214T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251214T170000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20251114T183936Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T201651Z UID:12097-1765731600-1765731600@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:In the Land of Waltz and Czardas - Polish Operetta Stars DESCRIPTION:Tickets >>> \n\nThe Holiday Concert: In the Land of Waltz and Czardas brings together an extraordinary lineup of guest artists from Poland’s most prestigious theaters\, including Opera Śląska\, Opera Wrocławska\, Opera Lubelska\, Teatr Wielki in Łódź\, and Teatr Muzyczny in Poznań. Audiences will be treated to the brilliance of celebrated soloists such as Ewelina Szybilska\, Tomasz Janczak\, Joanna Horodko\, Łukasz Gaj\, and Agnieszka Tyrawska\, joined by Wojciech Bonarowski\, Patrycja Posłuszna\, Adrian Sylveen\, and Dariusz Ocetek. Together\, they will illuminate the stage with the timeless charm and elegance of operetta. \nUnder the baton of conductor Adrian Sylveen\, the Orchestra will perform a dazzling program of beloved arias and duets\, capturing the magic and romance of the operetta tradition. From sweeping waltzes to fiery czardas\, the evening promises a festive celebration of music that blends classical artistry with joyful theatricality. Presented by the Polish American Music Stage\, this special event at the Queensborough Performing Arts Center offers New York audiences a rare opportunity to experience the grandeur of Poland’s operatic heritage in a holiday atmosphere filled with warmth\, brilliance\, and enchantment. URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/polish-operetta-stars/ LOCATION:Queensborough Performing Arts Center\, 222-05 56th Ave\, Bayside\, New York City\, 11364 CATEGORIES:2025-2026 Season,New York City ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/571776102_10238767113937130_2687067223544327171_n.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251207T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251207T160000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20251114T182756Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251121T232109Z UID:12093-1765123200-1765123200@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:Annual Fundraising Dinner & Silent Auction DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening that celebrates the vibrancy of our community through the power of music. The Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra welcomes you to our Annual Gala Dinner and Silent Auction\, where melody meets generosity. \nEnjoy exquisite performances\, savor a delightful meal\, and engage in a silent auction supporting our mission to provide meaningful musical experiences across Connecticut. Your presence supports not just a night of culture and camaraderie\, but also the orchestra’s outreach and educational programs. \nWe look forward to welcoming you to an inspiring evening of connection and music. \nCLICK HERE for TICKETS >>> URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/annual-fundraising-dinner-silent-auction/ LOCATION:Moonlight Bistro\, 123 Broad St.\, New Britain\, Connecticut\, 06053 CATEGORIES:2025-2026 Season,New Britain ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/dinner-table-444434_960_720.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra":MAILTO:info@thevirtuosi.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251130T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251130T180000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20250903T160403Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251112T165341Z UID:11982-1764525600-1764525600@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:Opera PAGLIACCI by Leoncavallo DESCRIPTION:Buy Tickets \nRuggero Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci is a gripping masterpiece that blends raw emotion\, unforgettable music\, and timeless drama. Audiences should not miss the chance to experience what resonates across generations: love\, betrayal\, jealousy\, and revenge—all set within a traveling performing troupe. The famous aria “Vesti la giubba\,” where the lead character Canio sings of hiding heartbreak behind a painted smile\, is one of the most iconic moments in operatic history. \nPagliacci is a perfect entry point for newcomers to opera and a thrilling favorite for seasoned fans. Its compact structure—just two acts—makes for a fast-paced\, emotionally intense evening. The music is lush and dramatic\, with soaring melodies and gripping orchestration that heighten every twist of the plot. Visually\, productions of Pagliacci often feature vibrant costumes that contrast the colourful world of performers with the dark undercurrents of their personal lives. It’s a story that asks: what happens when the mask comes off? \nWhether you’re drawn by the music\, the drama\, or the spectacle\, Pagliacci offers a cathartic\, unforgettable experience. It’s not just opera—it’s human emotion laid bare\, and it will leave you breathless. \n
\nCAST: \n\n \n \n \n \n Don José: Jax Hassler\n \n \n \n \n \n Frasquita: Emily Tate Daniel\n \n \n \n \n \n Jonathan R. Green (Tonio)\n \n \n \n \n \n Eliam Ramos (Silvio)\n \n \n \n \n \n Mario De La Garza (Beppe)\n \n \n\nDirector: Rosemarie Danziger\nBorn in Copenhagen\, Denmark\, Rosemarie Danziger studied at the Rubin Academy of Music in Jerusalem and the Hartt College of Music in Connecticut. She earned her degree in Theater from Cornell University and worked as a playwright at the Tåstrup Theater in Denmark while continuing to perform in concerts and operas. She collaborated with major Danish orchestras\, including the Sjællands Symphony\, Danish Radio Symphony\, and Aarhus Symphony. In 1989\, she moved to Canada\, performing with the Orchestra London\, McGill Orchestra\, and Edmonton Symphony. Since settling there\, she has toured extensively across Europe\, appearing in cities such as Mannheim\, Freiburg\, Hamburg\, Graz\, Basel\, Budapest\, and Gdańsk. She has sung under renowned conductors like Rafael Frühbeck de Burgos\, Walter Weller\, Donald Runnicles\, Jun Märkl\, Nir Kabaretti\, and Leon Botstein. Her repertoire spans operatic roles by Mozart\, Richard Strauss\, Verdi\, and Puccini\, as well as classic operettas by Johann Strauss\, Emmerich Kálmán\, and Franz Lehár. She has also performed widely in recitals and concerts. In 2014\, Danziger co-founded the non-profit Vienna-Tel Aviv Vocal Connection (VTAVC) with Maestro David Aronson and Sylvia Greenberg. VTAVC supports emerging professional singers by producing fully staged operas with leading Israeli orchestras. Since 2023\, the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra\, led by Maestro Julian Rachlin\, has been VTAVC’s exclusive partner. Her recent directing and production work includes Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro and Don Giovanni\, Strauss’s Die Fledermaus\, Pergolesi’s La serva padrona\, Ullmann’s Der Kaiser von Atlantis\, and The Impresario. She has worked with orchestras such as the Israel Chamber Orchestra\, Haifa Symphony\, and Israel Sinfonietta Beer Sheva. Danziger also teaches acting techniques and mentors professional singers. \nAdrian Sylveen\nAward-winning musician\, Adrian Sylveen enjoys a performing career in the United States and Europe. He is a founder and artistic director of the Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra (USA) and the Greve Opera Academy and Chamber Music Festival (Italy). He also appears frequently with Teatro Lirico D’Europa (USA) and Camerata Gdynia (Poland). Mr. Sylveen has conducted approximately 35 operatic titles and has an extensive orchestral and oratorio repertoire. He has conducted and performed concerts in the United States\, Poland\, Italy\, Israel\, Cuba\, Switzerland\, Germany\, Austria\, and the former Soviet Union. Between 2004-2024\, Mr. Sylveen was a co-founder\, artistic director\, and the principal conductor of the Connecticut Lyric Opera. He worked with such ensembles as Israeli Chamber Orchestra\, Olsztyn Philharmonic\, Elbląg Chamber Orchestra\, Classical Orchestra of Piła (Poland)\, Associazione Il Contrappunto (Italy)\, Holguín Symphony Orchestra (Cuba)\, Orchestra da Camera di Greve-In-Chianti (Italy)\, Central Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra\, the New Britain Chorale\, Coro di teatro Garibaldi\, Chór Akademii Staszica (Piła\, Poland)\, among others. A winner of many prizes in Europe and the United States\, he received the American Council for Polish Culture Primus Inter Pares Award from the President of the Republic of Poland and received permanent US residence for “Extraordinary Abilities in the Arts”. Mr. Sylveen holds Master of Music and Artist Diploma degrees from the Yale University School of Music; he is also a graduate of the Paderewski Music Academy in Poznan\, Poland (diploma with distinction). During the school years\, he participated in several international Festivals in Weimar\, Łancut\, Żagań\, and others. A dedicated music educator and community activist\, Sylveen is on the faculty of the Virtuosi Music Academy and Summer Music Festival\, Greve Opera Academy\, and works with a community “Moniuszko” Choir. \n
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Greve Opera Academy

\nFounded in 2015\, the Greve Opera Academy and Music Festival is a collaborative effort between the American performing organization Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra\, and the municipality of Greve-in-Chianti in the province of Florence. The inaugural festival featured a fully staged production of Le Nozze di Figaro performed in the Teatro Boito in Greve\, the Teatro Niccolini in San Casciano and in the public square – Piazza Metteotti – of Greve\, as well as additional performances in Greve and else wherei. 2016 saw performances of “La Boheme” in Greve and San Gimignano and of “Don Giovanni” in Greve\, with additional concerts and recitals in Florence and Greve; and 2017 saw performances of both “Tosca” and “Cosi fan Tutte” in San Gimignano and Greve\, with additional concerts and recitals in Florence and Greve. In the first three seasons\, attendees have come from the US\, Italy\, Canada\, China\, Austria\, Poland\, Cypress and Australia. \n
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Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra

\n””Established in 1997\, the Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra is Connecticut’s premier professional chamber orchestra\, based in the Greater New Britain area\, and dedicated to presenting both traditional and contemporary works to the public. As artists\, the Virtuosi strive to be cultural leaders and teachers and to inspire our audiences to recognize the beauty and quality of classical music in any form. \nThe Orchestra\, led by founder and artistic director Adrian Sylveen\, presents approximately ten critically acclaimed concert and opera programs each season. Virtuosi also presents eight school concerts for the New Britain Department of Education. The group performs thirty times a season in New Britain\, Hartford\, New London\, Middletown\, New York\, and Waterbury. Virtuosi also presented occasional concerts in Mystic\, Meriden\, New York City\, and Pennsylvania. URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/opera-pagliacci-by-leoncavallo-2/ LOCATION:First Presbyterian Church in Hartford\, 136 Capitol Ave\, Hartford\, CT\, 06105 CATEGORIES:2025-2026 Season,Hartford,Operas ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Pagliacci-CAST-.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra":MAILTO:info@thevirtuosi.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251128T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251128T193000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20250903T160254Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251112T165143Z UID:11980-1764358200-1764358200@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:Opera PAGLIACCI by Leoncavallo DESCRIPTION:Buy Tickets \nRuggero Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci is a gripping masterpiece that blends raw emotion\, unforgettable music\, and timeless drama. Audiences should not miss the chance to experience what resonates across generations: love\, betrayal\, jealousy\, and revenge—all set within a traveling performing troupe. The famous aria “Vesti la giubba\,” where the lead character Canio sings of hiding heartbreak behind a painted smile\, is one of the most iconic moments in operatic history. \nPagliacci is a perfect entry point for newcomers to opera and a thrilling favorite for seasoned fans. Its compact structure—just two acts—makes for a fast-paced\, emotionally intense evening. The music is lush and dramatic\, with soaring melodies and gripping orchestration that heighten every twist of the plot. Visually\, productions of Pagliacci often feature vibrant costumes that contrast the colourful world of performers with the dark undercurrents of their personal lives. It’s a story that asks: what happens when the mask comes off? \nWhether you’re drawn by the music\, the drama\, or the spectacle\, Pagliacci offers a cathartic\, unforgettable experience. It’s not just opera—it’s human emotion laid bare\, and it will leave you breathless. \n\nCAST: \n\n \n \n \n \n Don José: Jax Hassler\n \n \n \n \n \n Frasquita: Emily Tate Daniel\n \n \n \n \n \n Jonathan R. Green (Tonio)\n \n \n \n \n \n Eliam Ramos (Silvio)\n \n \n \n \n \n Mario De La Garza (Beppe)\n \n \n\nDirector: Rosemarie Danziger\nBorn in Copenhagen\, Denmark\, Rosemarie Danziger studied at the Rubin Academy of Music in Jerusalem and the Hartt College of Music in Connecticut. She earned her degree in Theater from Cornell University and worked as a playwright at the Tåstrup Theater in Denmark while continuing to perform in concerts and operas. She collaborated with major Danish orchestras\, including the Sjællands Symphony\, Danish Radio Symphony\, and Aarhus Symphony. In 1989\, she moved to Canada\, performing with the Orchestra London\, McGill Orchestra\, and Edmonton Symphony. Since settling there\, she has toured extensively across Europe\, appearing in cities such as Mannheim\, Freiburg\, Hamburg\, Graz\, Basel\, Budapest\, and Gdańsk. She has sung under renowned conductors like Rafael Frühbeck de Burgos\, Walter Weller\, Donald Runnicles\, Jun Märkl\, Nir Kabaretti\, and Leon Botstein. Her repertoire spans operatic roles by Mozart\, Richard Strauss\, Verdi\, and Puccini\, as well as classic operettas by Johann Strauss\, Emmerich Kálmán\, and Franz Lehár. She has also performed widely in recitals and concerts. In 2014\, Danziger co-founded the non-profit Vienna-Tel Aviv Vocal Connection (VTAVC) with Maestro David Aronson and Sylvia Greenberg. VTAVC supports emerging professional singers by producing fully staged operas with leading Israeli orchestras. Since 2023\, the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra\, led by Maestro Julian Rachlin\, has been VTAVC’s exclusive partner. Her recent directing and production work includes Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro and Don Giovanni\, Strauss’s Die Fledermaus\, Pergolesi’s La serva padrona\, Ullmann’s Der Kaiser von Atlantis\, and The Impresario. She has worked with orchestras such as the Israel Chamber Orchestra\, Haifa Symphony\, and Israel Sinfonietta Beer Sheva. Danziger also teaches acting techniques and mentors professional singers. \nAdrian Sylveen\nAward-winning musician\, Adrian Sylveen enjoys a performing career in the United States and Europe. He is a founder and artistic director of the Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra (USA) and the Greve Opera Academy and Chamber Music Festival (Italy). He also appears frequently with Teatro Lirico D’Europa (USA) and Camerata Gdynia (Poland). Mr. Sylveen has conducted approximately 35 operatic titles and has an extensive orchestral and oratorio repertoire. He has conducted and performed concerts in the United States\, Poland\, Italy\, Israel\, Cuba\, Switzerland\, Germany\, Austria\, and the former Soviet Union. Between 2004-2024\, Mr. Sylveen was a co-founder\, artistic director\, and the principal conductor of the Connecticut Lyric Opera. He worked with such ensembles as Israeli Chamber Orchestra\, Olsztyn Philharmonic\, Elbląg Chamber Orchestra\, Classical Orchestra of Piła (Poland)\, Associazione Il Contrappunto (Italy)\, Holguín Symphony Orchestra (Cuba)\, Orchestra da Camera di Greve-In-Chianti (Italy)\, Central Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra\, the New Britain Chorale\, Coro di teatro Garibaldi\, Chór Akademii Staszica (Piła\, Poland)\, among others. A winner of many prizes in Europe and the United States\, he received the American Council for Polish Culture Primus Inter Pares Award from the President of the Republic of Poland and received permanent US residence for “Extraordinary Abilities in the Arts”. Mr. Sylveen holds Master of Music and Artist Diploma degrees from the Yale University School of Music; he is also a graduate of the Paderewski Music Academy in Poznan\, Poland (diploma with distinction). During the school years\, he participated in several international Festivals in Weimar\, Łancut\, Żagań\, and others. A dedicated music educator and community activist\, Sylveen is on the faculty of the Virtuosi Music Academy and Summer Music Festival\, Greve Opera Academy\, and works with a community “Moniuszko” Choir. \n\nGreve Opera Academy\nFounded in 2015\, the Greve Opera Academy and Music Festival is a collaborative effort between the American performing organization Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra\, and the municipality of Greve-in-Chianti in the province of Florence. The inaugural festival featured a fully staged production of Le Nozze di Figaro performed in the Teatro Boito in Greve\, the Teatro Niccolini in San Casciano and in the public square – Piazza Metteotti – of Greve\, as well as additional performances in Greve and else wherei. 2016 saw performances of “La Boheme” in Greve and San Gimignano and of “Don Giovanni” in Greve\, with additional concerts and recitals in Florence and Greve; and 2017 saw performances of both “Tosca” and “Cosi fan Tutte” in San Gimignano and Greve\, with additional concerts and recitals in Florence and Greve. In the first three seasons\, attendees have come from the US\, Italy\, Canada\, China\, Austria\, Poland\, Cypress and Australia. \n\nConnecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra\nEstablished in 1997\, the Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra is Connecticut’s premier professional chamber orchestra\, based in the Greater New Britain area\, and dedicated to presenting both traditional and contemporary works to the public. As artists\, the Virtuosi strive to be cultural leaders and teachers and to inspire our audiences to recognize the beauty and quality of classical music in any form. \nThe Orchestra\, led by founder and artistic director Adrian Sylveen\, presents approximately ten critically acclaimed concert and opera programs each season. Virtuosi also presents eight school concerts for the New Britain Department of Education. The group performs thirty times a season in New Britain\, Hartford\, New London\, Middletown\, New York\, and Waterbury. Virtuosi also presented occasional concerts in Mystic\, Meriden\, New York City\, and Pennsylvania. URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/opera-pagliacci-by-leoncavallo/ LOCATION:Santo Fragilio Performing Arts Center\, 200 LaRosa Lane\, Middletown\, CT\, 06457 CATEGORIES:2025-2026 Season,Middletown,Operas ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Pagliacci-2-1536x1238-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251126T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251126T193000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20251009T113200Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T204713Z UID:12040-1764185400-1764185400@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:Opera PAGLIACCI by Leoncavallo DESCRIPTION:FOR TICKETS\, CLICK HERE >>> \nVIRTUOSI OPERA PRESENTS: Ruggero Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci\, a gripping masterpiece that blends raw emotion\, unforgettable music\, and timeless drama. Audiences should not miss the chance to experience what resonates across generations: love\, betrayal\, jealousy\, and revenge—all set within a traveling performing troupe. The famous aria “Vesti la giubba\,” where the lead character Canio sings of hiding heartbreak behind a painted smile\, is one of the most iconic moments in operatic history. \nPagliacci is a perfect entry point for newcomers to opera and a thrilling favorite for seasoned fans. Its compact structure—just two acts—makes for a fast-paced\, emotionally intense evening. The music is lush and dramatic\, with soaring melodies and gripping orchestration that heighten every twist of the plot. Visually\, productions of Pagliacci often feature vibrant costumes that contrast the colourful world of performers with the dark undercurrents of their personal lives. It’s a story that asks: what happens when the mask comes off? \nWhether you’re drawn by the music\, the drama\, or the spectacle\, Pagliacci offers a cathartic\, unforgettable experience. It’s not just opera—it’s human emotion laid bare\, and it will leave you breathless. \n\nCAST: \n\n \n \n \n \n Don José: Jax Hassler\n \n \n \n \n \n Frasquita: Emily Tate Daniel\n \n \n \n \n \n Jonathan R. Green (Tonio)\n \n \n \n \n \n Eliam Ramos (Silvio)\n \n \n \n \n \n Mario De La Garza (Beppe)\n \n \n\nDirector: Rosemarie Danziger\nBorn in Copenhagen\, Denmark\, Rosemarie Danziger studied at the Rubin Academy of Music in Jerusalem and the Hartt College of Music in Connecticut. She earned her degree in Theater from Cornell University and worked as a playwright at the Tåstrup Theater in Denmark while continuing to perform in concerts and operas. She collaborated with major Danish orchestras\, including the Sjællands Symphony\, Danish Radio Symphony\, and Aarhus Symphony. In 1989\, she moved to Canada\, performing with the Orchestra London\, McGill Orchestra\, and Edmonton Symphony. Since settling there\, she has toured extensively across Europe\, appearing in cities such as Mannheim\, Freiburg\, Hamburg\, Graz\, Basel\, Budapest\, and Gdańsk. She has sung under renowned conductors like Rafael Frühbeck de Burgos\, Walter Weller\, Donald Runnicles\, Jun Märkl\, Nir Kabaretti\, and Leon Botstein. Her repertoire spans operatic roles by Mozart\, Richard Strauss\, Verdi\, and Puccini\, as well as classic operettas by Johann Strauss\, Emmerich Kálmán\, and Franz Lehár. She has also performed widely in recitals and concerts. In 2014\, Danziger co-founded the non-profit Vienna-Tel Aviv Vocal Connection (VTAVC) with Maestro David Aronson and Sylvia Greenberg. VTAVC supports emerging professional singers by producing fully staged operas with leading Israeli orchestras. Since 2023\, the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra\, led by Maestro Julian Rachlin\, has been VTAVC’s exclusive partner. Her recent directing and production work includes Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro and Don Giovanni\, Strauss’s Die Fledermaus\, Pergolesi’s La serva padrona\, Ullmann’s Der Kaiser von Atlantis\, and The Impresario. She has worked with orchestras such as the Israel Chamber Orchestra\, Haifa Symphony\, and Israel Sinfonietta Beer Sheva. Danziger also teaches acting techniques and mentors professional singers. \nAdrian Sylveen\nAward-winning musician\, Adrian Sylveen enjoys a performing career in the United States and Europe. He is a founder and artistic director of the Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra (USA) and the Greve Opera Academy and Chamber Music Festival (Italy). He also appears frequently with Teatro Lirico D’Europa (USA) and Camerata Gdynia (Poland). Mr. Sylveen has conducted approximately 35 operatic titles and has an extensive orchestral and oratorio repertoire. He has conducted and performed concerts in the United States\, Poland\, Italy\, Israel\, Cuba\, Switzerland\, Germany\, Austria\, and the former Soviet Union. Between 2004-2024\, Mr. Sylveen was a co-founder\, artistic director\, and the principal conductor of the Connecticut Lyric Opera. He worked with such ensembles as Israeli Chamber Orchestra\, Olsztyn Philharmonic\, Elbląg Chamber Orchestra\, Classical Orchestra of Piła (Poland)\, Associazione Il Contrappunto (Italy)\, Holguín Symphony Orchestra (Cuba)\, Orchestra da Camera di Greve-In-Chianti (Italy)\, Central Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra\, the New Britain Chorale\, Coro di teatro Garibaldi\, Chór Akademii Staszica (Piła\, Poland)\, among others. A winner of many prizes in Europe and the United States\, he received the American Council for Polish Culture Primus Inter Pares Award from the President of the Republic of Poland and received permanent US residence for “Extraordinary Abilities in the Arts”. Mr. Sylveen holds Master of Music and Artist Diploma degrees from the Yale University School of Music; he is also a graduate of the Paderewski Music Academy in Poznan\, Poland (diploma with distinction). During the school years\, he participated in several international Festivals in Weimar\, Łancut\, Żagań\, and others. A dedicated music educator and community activist\, Sylveen is on the faculty of the Virtuosi Music Academy and Summer Music Festival\, Greve Opera Academy\, and works with a community “Moniuszko” Choir. \n\nGreve Opera Academy\nFounded in 2015\, the Greve Opera Academy and Music Festival is a collaborative effort between the American performing organization Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra\, and the municipality of Greve-in-Chianti in the province of Florence. The inaugural festival featured a fully staged production of Le Nozze di Figaro performed in the Teatro Boito in Greve\, the Teatro Niccolini in San Casciano and in the public square – Piazza Metteotti – of Greve\, as well as additional performances in Greve and else wherei. 2016 saw performances of “La Boheme” in Greve and San Gimignano and of “Don Giovanni” in Greve\, with additional concerts and recitals in Florence and Greve; and 2017 saw performances of both “Tosca” and “Cosi fan Tutte” in San Gimignano and Greve\, with additional concerts and recitals in Florence and Greve. In the first three seasons\, attendees have come from the US\, Italy\, Canada\, China\, Austria\, Poland\, Cypress and Australia. \n\nConnecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra\nEstablished in 1997\, the Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra is Connecticut’s premier professional chamber orchestra\, based in the Greater New Britain area\, and dedicated to presenting both traditional and contemporary works to the public. As artists\, the Virtuosi strive to be cultural leaders and teachers and to inspire our audiences to recognize the beauty and quality of classical music in any form. \nThe Orchestra\, led by founder and artistic director Adrian Sylveen\, presents approximately ten critically acclaimed concert and opera programs each season. Virtuosi also presents eight school concerts for the New Britain Department of Education. The group performs thirty times a season in New Britain\, Hartford\, New London\, Middletown\, New York\, and Waterbury. Virtuosi also presented occasional concerts in Mystic\, Meriden\, New York City\, and Pennsylvania. \n\nPerformance supported by: the Frank Loomis Palmer Fund URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/opera-pagliacci-by-leoncavallo-3/ LOCATION:Garde Arts Center\, 325 State St.\, New London\, CT\, 06320\, United States CATEGORIES:2025-2026 Season,2025-2026 Season,Middletown,New London,Operas ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Virtuosi-Opera-LOGO-e1763153139793.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra":MAILTO:info@thevirtuosi.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251012T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251012T150000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20250903T155948Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T122302Z UID:11978-1760281200-1760281200@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:Season Opening: Gershwin\, Tracz\, Mozart DESCRIPTION:An exceptional Chinese young pianist from the Juilliard School of Music\, Weiran Lydia Meng will perform Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Also in the program is the World premiere of XXI Music for string orchestra by a young Polish composer from Gdańsk Music Academy\, Sandra Tracz\, and Mozart’s Symphony No. 29 in A-Major. \nFor Admission Info\, CLICK HERE >>> \n\nWeiran Lydia Meng\, a pianist of profound imagination and emotional sensitivity\, is currently pursuing her studies at The Juilliard School under the guidance of the renowned Soyeon Kate Lee.\nA captivating performer with a growing international presence\, her performances have taken her across the globe\, including Carnegie Hall and Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center in New York\, Shenzhen concert hall in China and the Wiesbaden City Hall in Germany.\nHer accolades include First Prize at the Hong Kong Asia Piano Open Competition\, Third Prize at the International Piano Competition in Wiesbaden\, Germany as the youngest competitor in the entire competition\, and Third Prize at the Juilliard Piano Concerto Competition (2024-2025 season.)\nDemonstrating a remarkable versatility as an artist\, She was invited in April 2025 to perform at Carnegie Hall for a celebratory concert honoring the legendary American composer\, Meredith Monk. Lydia Meng embraced stepping into the role of Meredith Monk herself in the dance-theater piece Particular Dance. Juilliard President Damian Woetzel praised Weiran’s fearless artistry\, stating that she “embodies Juilliard’s ideal of interdisciplinary exploration\, uniting music\, dance\, and theater with fearless creativity.”\n“I believe music is my most authentic voice—a universal dialect that transcends borders. My mission is to use this piano to narrate the world’s boundless wonders\, inviting listeners to feel its vibrant pulse and captivating stories.” \n\nSandra Gabriela Tracz is a young Polish composer currently completing her fifth year of composition studies at the Academy of Music in Gdańsk\, under the mentorship of Prof. Krzysztof Olczak. Her compositional work embraces both autonomous and film music\, written for various ensembles and often incorporating electronics. She draws on a wide range of interests\, integrating them into her creative and professional life. This versatility fuels her imaginative approach and helps define her unique voice within the contemporary music scene. Tracz has received notable recognition\, including winning an international carillon arrangement competition—her piece was broadcast daily from the Main Town Hall tower in Gdańsk throughout May. She is also a recipient of a grant from the Polish Ministry of Culture and National Heritage under the “Composers’ Commissions” program\, through which she created Threads of Bach—a quadruple concerto for clarinet\, alto saxophone\, marimba\, violin\, and symphony orchestra\, written to mark the anniversary year of J.S. Bach. Sandra Gabriela Tracz sees her future in the creation of innovative\, interdisciplinary projects that connect music\, movement\, and the spoken word. For her\, versatility is not a distraction but a deliberate path toward artistic integration and expressive depth. URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/season-opening-2/ LOCATION:New Britain Museum of American Art\, 56 Lexington St.\, New Britain\, CT\, 06052 CATEGORIES:“We the People” Immigrant Stories in Music,2025-2026 Season,New Britain ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra":MAILTO:info@thevirtuosi.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251009T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251009T193000 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20250903T155709Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T113135Z UID:11976-1760038200-1760038200@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:Season Opening: Gershwin\, Tracz\, Mozart DESCRIPTION:An exceptional Chinese young pianist from the Juilliard School of Music\, Weiran Lydia Meng will perform Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Also in the program is the World premiere of XXI Music for string orchestra by a young Polish composer from Gdańsk Music Academy\, Sandra Tracz\, and Mozart’s Symphony No. 29 in A-Major. \nBuy Tickets \n\nSandra Tracz – XXI Music for String Orchestra\nGeorge Gershwin – Rhapsody in Blue (in arrangement for the Chamber Orchestra)\nW. A. Mozart –  Symphony No. 29 in A major\, K. 201 \n\nWeiran Lydia Meng\, a pianist of profound imagination and emotional sensitivity\, is currently pursuing her studies at The Juilliard School under the guidance of the renowned Soyeon Kate Lee.\nA captivating performer with a growing international presence\, her performances have taken her across the globe\, including Carnegie Hall and Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center in New York\, Shenzhen concert hall in China and the Wiesbaden City Hall in Germany.\nHer accolades include First Prize at the Hong Kong Asia Piano Open Competition\, Third Prize at the International Piano Competition in Wiesbaden\, Germany as the youngest competitor in the entire competition\, and Third Prize at the Juilliard Piano Concerto Competition (2024-2025 season.)\nDemonstrating a remarkable versatility as an artist\, She was invited in April 2025 to perform at Carnegie Hall for a celebratory concert honoring the legendary American composer\, Meredith Monk. Lydia Meng embraced stepping into the role of Meredith Monk herself in the dance-theater piece Particular Dance. Juilliard President Damian Woetzel praised Weiran’s fearless artistry\, stating that she “embodies Juilliard’s ideal of interdisciplinary exploration\, uniting music\, dance\, and theater with fearless creativity.”\n“I believe music is my most authentic voice—a universal dialect that transcends borders. My mission is to use this piano to narrate the world’s boundless wonders\, inviting listeners to feel its vibrant pulse and captivating stories.” \n\nSandra Gabriela Tracz is a young Polish composer currently completing her fifth year of composition studies at the Academy of Music in Gdańsk\, under the mentorship of Prof. Krzysztof Olczak. Her compositional work embraces both autonomous and film music\, written for various ensembles and often incorporating electronics. She draws on a wide range of interests\, integrating them into her creative and professional life. This versatility fuels her imaginative approach and helps define her unique voice within the contemporary music scene. Tracz has received notable recognition\, including winning an international carillon arrangement competition—her piece was broadcast daily from the Main Town Hall tower in Gdańsk throughout May. She is also a recipient of a grant from the Polish Ministry of Culture and National Heritage under the “Composers’ Commissions” program\, through which she created Threads of Bach—a quadruple concerto for clarinet\, alto saxophone\, marimba\, violin\, and symphony orchestra\, written to mark the anniversary year of J.S. Bach. Sandra Gabriela Tracz sees her future in the creation of innovative\, interdisciplinary projects that connect music\, movement\, and the spoken word. For her\, versatility is not a distraction but a deliberate path toward artistic integration and expressive depth. URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/season-opening/ LOCATION:First Presbyterian Church in Hartford\, 136 Capitol Ave\, Hartford\, CT\, 06105 CATEGORIES:“We the People” Immigrant Stories in Music,2025-2026 Season,Hartford,New Music Hartford ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VIRTUOSI-2025-10-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra":MAILTO:info@thevirtuosi.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250803 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250818 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20250528T150616Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T150657Z UID:11911-1754179200-1755475199@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:2025 Virtuosi Summer Music Institute and Festival DESCRIPTION:We are excited to announce the continuation of our Virtuosi Summer Music Institute and Festival\, which has been delighting audiences since 2011. The program is designed to address the need for intensive music education for talented and motivated students\, that is affordable yet rigorous\, comprehensive\, and provided by world-class instructors. Our program is open to students who demonstrate a command of their instrument and are able to perform in a variety of musical settings. URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/2025-virtuosi-summer-music-institute-and-festival/ LOCATION:St. James Episcopal Church\, 3 Mountain rd.\, Farmington\, CT\, 06032 CATEGORIES:2025-2026 Season,Farmington CT ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/365654889_10229049860208407_8079734435086897837_n.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250618 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250710 DTSTAMP:20260421T090427 CREATED:20250528T144229Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T144607Z UID:11905-1750204800-1752105599@thevirtuosi.org SUMMARY:International GREVE OPERA Academy & Chamber Music Festival DESCRIPTION:General Info at: \nWWW.GREVEFESTIVAL.ORG \nFestival Performances at: \nhttp://grevefestival.org/events/category/2025-greve-festival/ URL:https://thevirtuosi.org/event/international-greve-opera-academy-chamber-music-festival/ LOCATION:Greve – Figline – Empoli – Firenze CATEGORIES:2025-2026 Season,Greve - Figline - Empoli - Firenze,Operas,Summer Festival ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thevirtuosi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Greve-2024-p1-e1717220619534.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Connecticut Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra":MAILTO:info@thevirtuosi.org END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR