The Valentine’s Weekend concert at Carnegie Hall, “6-wire and
Friends,” showcased the three-member ensemble as well as other UD
musicians.
Founded by Gao, 6-wire is internationally known as a pioneering
crossover ensemble inspired by the historical connection between the
erhu, the Chinese two-stringed violin, and the four-stringed violin.
The ensemble-in-residence for the University’s Master Players Concert Series,
6-wire features Xiang Gao, UD Trustees Distinguished Professor of
Music, on violin, Cathy Yang on erhu and Matthew Brower on piano.
The Carnegie Hall concert, supported by the UD President’s Office and
Office of Development and Alumni Relations, also showcased
collaborators from the University and beyond. Those included the UD
Chorale, directed by Paul Head, Unidel Distinguished Professor of Music
and director of choral studies; UD faculty cellist Lawrence
Stomberg; James Allen Anderson, UD director of orchestral activities,
leading the UD Chamber Orchestra and guest Tracy Richardson on
harpsichord; and New York cellist Gabriel Cabezas.
The concert featured world premieres of the new works “Ealasaid” by
UD faculty composer Jennifer Margaret Barker and “Meridian Flux” by
composer Mark Hagerty, new original works and arrangements by 6-wire,
and the New York premiere performance of “Clearwater Rhapsody” by
MacArthur Genius Grant awardee Bright Sheng.
The event also served as a celebration of UD's global community.
The English Language Institute, Institute for Global Studies and Office
for International Students and Scholars, sponsors of the concert, sent a
delegation of nearly 150 students to participate.
“Tonight is a celebration of the University of Delaware’s innovative
spirit and our dedication to excellence,” Assanis told the audience.
“Our students, our faculty, our entire community — they all benefit from
a strong arts program. …This is why the University of Delaware is
absolutely committed to music and the arts.”
Article by Ann Manser; photos by Lane McLaughlin and Kathy F. Atkinson