Centuries before stories and poems were first set down in writing, the sister arts of music and storytelling were inextricably linked with one another, filling a deep human need for words to be illuminated, enriched, and enhanced by musical sounds. Our 2023 Sarasota Music Festival has celebrated the mysterious and magical power through an expansive range of works, both familiar and new, that have invited us to set our imagination ablaze, and illustrate the Festival theme: The Power of Music Through Storytelling.
As we head into the final week of the Festival, we are reflecting on some of the aspects that have made this year so special for our fellows:
Ellen Hayashi, violinist:
“SMF has been a true highlight of my summer! Due to the fact that SMF challenges you to have to produce professional quality work in very short amounts of time, I found myself really having to put into practice all of the ideas and concepts that have been instilled in me, in order to achieve these quick turnarounds! Having this ability is a small part of what being an artist is, and SMF gives us Fellows a chance to practice being artists of this next generation! Pairing this with the bonding experiences that come along with these opportunities creates the magic of music here at SMF!"
Melanie Chen, cellist:
“One aspect of the Festival I was especially excited about before arriving was the opportunity to work with faculty - to watch them perform on stage and play beside them in our mixed ensembles and orchestral experiences. Little did I know, this would be my favorite part of the festival! Getting to learn from and be inspired by them through each masterclass is something that I’ve been grateful to the Festival for having.”
Ray Wyant, clarinetist:
“Jeffrey Kahane is a huge draw 'cause he's awesome…. I also love the chamber music! Chamber music opportunities are sensational. The ability to network and get playing experience with industry professionals is a fantastic opportunity for any aspiring young musician.”
Be sure to catch the last Rising Stars performance this Friday!
Rising Stars 3
Friday, June 23
2:30 pm | Holley Hall
