Calgary is set to resonate with a medley of musical events as the Honens Festival will once again showcase a celebration of piano and chamber music, starting on Thursday, 7 September. While the festival boasts a line-up worthy of international acclaim, one name will capture our attention: Illia Ovcharenko.
Since being crowned the 2022 Honens Prize Laureate, Ovcharenko has captivated the keen attention of the classical music afficionados. Described as “Technically flawless and impeccably musical” by International Piano, Ovcharenko is set to perform his first solo recital since his victory last year. The expectations are sky-high, but if his past performances are anything to go by, the audience is in for an unforgettable evening.
Illia Ovcharenko in Recital, slated for Friday, 8 September, at 7 pm, will take place in the tranquil setting of St. Stephen’s Anglican Church. The program Ovcharenko has prepared is both challenging and compelling. At its heart is Franz Liszt’s astounding transcription of Beethoven's beloved Symphony No. 7. The programme will also include works by J.S. Bach, Scarlatti, and a nod to Ovcharenko's roots with music by Ukrainian composer Levko Revutsky.
Ovcharenko will also join forces with Honens Artistic Director Jon Kimura Parker, and Calgary pianists Akiko Tominaga and Jani Parsons in 176 Keys. Eight hands on two pianos will enchant the audience as they journey through classics such as the Toccata and Fugue by J.S. Bach and Dave Brubeck’s jazzy 'Take Five'. This popular event will take place at containR on Thursday, 7 September and again at Stephen Avenue Walk on Friday, 8 September.
The 2023 Honens Festival will also present Bison Noir, a musical trip around the world presented by Canada’s renowned Ladom Ensemble. The concert will take audiences on a thrilling ride through traditional tunes of Persia, Romania, Russia, Argentina, and for the alternative rock enthusiasts, the iconic music of Radiohead. (This event is 18+.)
The Ladom Ensemble will make their appearance again in the Xenia @ Honens, two concerts that stand out for its sheer intent and inclusivity. Specially designed to be accessible and inclusive for neurodivergent listeners, people with disabilities, and others who face social and systemic barriers to attending typical concerts, all ages and expressions are welcome at these performances. (To eliminate financial barriers to attendance, Honens will refund your ticket when you arrive at the concert. You are also welcome to donate your ticket fee to Honens if you wish.)
Open Air, a free musical extravaganza, promises a delightful mix with pianists Illia Ovcharenko and Jon Kimura Parker, violinist Donovan Seidle, and the Ladom Ensemble again, bringing in the fervor. The event will take place in Calgary on 9 September and in High River on 10 September.
Let your soul wander through melodious landscapes at the Honens Festival, making memories with every note, beat, and rhythm. It's more than just a series of concerts; it's a musical expedition that you won't soon forget.
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