“The words “superstar” and “mandolinist” still look odd next to each other. Yet in the classical world, they are starting to be joined with some frequency… Avi Avital… was nothing short of electric.” New York Times
The Academy of St Martin in the Fields returns to the iconic Church of St Martin-in-the-Fields, London, to perform alongside Avi Avital – the first mandolin soloist to be nominated for a classical Grammy. Passionate and “explosively charismatic” (New York Times) in live performance, Avi has been compared to Segovia for his championship of his instrument and to Heifitz for his incredible virtuosity. A driving force of mandolin repertory, he has had more than 100 contemporary compositions written for him, including 15 concertos – one of which will be performed tonight as well as his own transcription of Bach’s Violin Concerto in G Minor.
PROGRAMME
Tippett: Fantasia Concertante on a Theme of Corelli (Omaggio a Italia)
Anna Clyne Three Sisters: Mandolin Concerto
Bach arr Avital: Violin Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, BWV 1056
Walton: Sonata for Strings