Classical violinist Chloë Dickens will perform alongside her colleagues in the Alegría Ensemble for the world premiere of “While the Sand Still Runs,” a new composition by professor emeritus Edward Smaldone of Manhasset.
This piece, written for a piano trio, will be premiered during the ensemble’s concert in Port Washington on March 30. The program also includes works by Ernest Bloch, Lili Boulanger and Haydn.
Founded by Dickens, the Alegría Ensemble brings together artists from around the world. “While the Sand Still Runs” is a piece that ‘celebrates life in all its glory’ and marks a significant addition to the ensemble’s repertoire.
Dickens is an accomplished violinist with a career in the United States and United Kingdom. Recent highlights include her performance at Carnegie Hall, where she celebrated the voices of women composers with Vox Feminarum, led by visionary Kervy Delcy.
Dickens, known for her versatility and technical skill, has earned a reputation as a dynamic force in classical music, and her leadership of the Alegría Ensemble further underscores her commitment to bringing innovative musical works to diverse audiences.
Her previous performances include notable venues such as The Southbank Centre, Ronnie Scott’s and Birmingham Symphony Hall.
“As both a soloist and ensemble musician, the technical complexity of this piece is exceptionally challenging. I take great pride in being among the select musicians capable of delivering a compelling performance that reflects the piece’s emotional depth” Dickens said. “This concert represents a culmination of both my own journey as a performer and the collective passion of the Alegría Ensemble. It’s an honor to share the stage with such incredible musicians, and to be able to offer audiences a program that celebrates both the classical and contemporary genres.”
Smaldone’s career has spanned decades and his works have been performed by ensembles in the United States, Canada, Japan, Europe and China. He was named “Composer of the Year” in 2016 by the Classical Recording Foundation, and recently released his 14th CD, “What no one else sees…”
A review in Fanfare said Smaldone has “a gift for connecting one phrase with another, even one note with another.”
“I’m excited to contribute a new composition to the Alegría Ensemble’s repertoire,” Smaldone said. “Working with musicians of such calibre, including Chloë Dickens, who has both wonderful technical skill and passion for performance, has been an inspiring and rewarding experience. This performance represents the kind of collaboration that keeps the dynamic relationship between composers and performers alive.”
In addition to her recent performance at Carnegie Hall, Dickens has a growing body of prestigious performances and accolades. Her reputation continues to grow as she establishes herself as a significant figure in the classical music world in New York, known for her command of the violin and her ability to bring diverse musical works to life with both technical precision and emotional depth.
Tickets are available now for those wishing to attend.
https://portwashington.librarycalendar.com/event/hold-chamber-music-concert-76165
