Press Release

April 16, 2020

For Immediate Release

Press Contact:

Gail Wein - (646) 484-9691

As we navigate these unprecedented times, Baruch Performing Arts Center has created two unique programs of music, film, and discourse featuring the Alexander String Quartet, Baruch's string quartet-in-residence since 1986.

 

On Wednesday, April 22 at 7:30 PM EDT, BPAC presents streaming audio and video of Alexander String Quartet’s special performance recorded this week for BPAC of Haydn’s The Seven Last Words of Christ. Aldemaro Romero Jr., Dean of the Weissman School of Arts and Sciences at Baruch College, welcomes the viewers and introduces the music and the performers.

 

The Quartet's interpretation of Haydn's intimate work intersperses the music with readings that are meditations on the subject of human suffering, redemption and renewal. Performing it “together,” albeit from their respective homes while observing social distancing protocols, the quartet brings this emotionally-rich work to viewers, offering both depth and comfort in difficult times. The performance was recorded expressly for this specially-streamed presentation.

 

Visit this link to access the performance, beginning at 7:30 EDT on April 22. Access is free through May 6.

A second on-line event is a screening of the documentary “Con Moto,” followed by a discussion with the members of ASQ and Dennis Slavin, Associate Provost and professor of music at Baruch College. “Con Moto”, available on at this link beginning Thursday, April 23 at 7:30 PM EDT (free access through May 7), follows the Alexander String Quartet as they perform throughout Poland, giving a behind-the-scenes view of the Quartet and revealing the collective voice that emerges through the unique personalities of the individuals.

"Con Moto" Trailer

Listen ASQ discuss their origins, philosophy of programming, and reflecting on 40 years as an ensemble on WWFM's Cadenza with David Osenberg. Part 1 and Part 2

Baruch Performing Arts Center is proud to host The Alexander String Quartet for two one-week residencies each year. In addition to performing concerts in Engelman Recital Hall, the quartet works with classes from a variety of disciplines. Classes in the areas of literature, music, writing, chemistry, psychology, and theatre will explore music composition and performance as it relates to other areas of thought and practice. That tradition continues on-line this Spring with students accessing the residencies via on-line platforms.

Zakarias Grafilo, Violin | Frederick Lifsitz, Violin | Paul Yarbrough, Viola | Sandy Wilson, Cello

 

Franz Joseph Haydn's

The Seven Last Words of Christ

ASQ streams a performance recorded this week for BPAC with special introduction and welcome by Aldemaro Romero Jr., Dean of the Weissman School of Arts and Sciences at Baruch College

 

Documentary film: "Con Moto"

followed by a discussion with Alexander String Quartet

Baruch Performing Arts Center (BPAC) is an active presence in the heart of Manhattan. Located just east of the Chelsea neighborhood, BPAC presents world class Classical music, Jazz and Pop, in addition to theater, dance, literary and discussion programs. BPAC's 2019/20 music programs feature Met Museum ensemble-in-residence Sonnambula; Israeli Chamber Project; the Daedalus, Clarion, and Alexander String Quartets; Canadian soprano Rayanne Dupuis with pianist Guy Livingston; Grammy-nominated composer/pianist Vijay Iyer with trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith; and Blood Moon, a world premiere opera-theatre work presented with PROTOTYPE Festival and the Japan Society.