Ray Chen, violin: "Obsession" February 7, 2012

Program:
Bach: Chaconne from Partita in D minor for solo violin (BWV 1004)
Brahms: Sonata for Piano and Violin no. 3 in D minor
Tchaikovsky: Melody in E flat major, Op. 42, No. 3
Saint Saens: Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso, Op. 28
+ Encores

On Tuesday, February 7th, the fast-rising violin star Ray Chen, often referred to as “Downtown Virtuoso”, celebrates the worldwide release of his first-ever orchestral album with a rare New York City appearance at (Le) Poisson Rouge (158 Bleecker Street). “Classical music is often put on a pedestal and admired from afar”, says Ray Chen. “I love bringing it downtown, mixing it with fashion, digital technology, urban lifestyle, and – gasp! – pop culture. I love seeing my fans’ faces and making them smile.” This performance, featuring a selection of Ray Chen’s favorite works, will be streamed live nation-wide by NPR and internationally on his Facebook page which has thousands of followers across the globe.

The new album is released by Sony Masterworks as a follow-up to the critically acclaimed “Virtuoso”, an award-winning solo recording that propelled Ray Chen to international stardom in 2011. For this new record Ray teamed up with the Swedish Radio Orchestra and conductor Daniel Harding. It features two of the most famous Romantic masterpieces in the violin repertoire: the Tchaikovsky and the Mendelssohn (E minor) concertos. His interpretations of these works led to his triumph at the 2008 Yehudi Menuhin International Competition and the 2009 Queen Elisabeth Competition in Brussels. “These concertos are my lucky charms,” says Ray Chen. “Maybe I bring something new and fresh to them. Some say recording them is a huge milestone, and I felt ready for it.” Alongside his technical mastery, many critics are impressed with the maturity of Ray Chen’s playing. In the words of the Chicago Tribune: “He is an exceptional talent.”

This is a general admission event. Seating is limited and available on a first come, first seated basis. There is a two item minimum per person at all tables. Standing room is also available. We recommend arriving early.

Official Website: http://lepoissonrouge.com/events/view/2675