The College of Music’s Joanne and Bill Church West Circle Series presents its second concert of the season, Vive la France, on Monday, December 2, at 7:30 p.m. in Fairchild Theatre. This special evening celebrates the elegance of French composers, featuring works by Gabriel Fauré, Francis Poulenc, and Cécile Chaminade.
The program features three distinctive works that showcase the grace and expressive style of French classical music. At the heart of the evening is Piano Quartet No. 1 in C minor, Op. 15 by Gabriel Fauré, admired for its rich harmonies and lyrical beauty, bridging Romanticism and a modern sensibility. Also featured is Sonata for Flute and Piano by Francis Poulenc, a lively piece with Poulenc’s characteristic blend of humor and sensitivity. Completing the program, Cécile Chaminade’s Pièces Romantiques offers a charming set of piano pieces filled with warmth and Romantic-era elegance.
Pictured left to right and top to bottom: Suren Bagratuni, Yvonne Lam, Deborah Moriarty, Eric Nowlin, Richard Sherman, and Zhihua Tang.
“This concert is a tribute to the beauty and elegance of French music, showcasing composers who brought passion and innovation to their craft,” says Deborah Moriarty, MSU professor of piano and director of the series. “We are thrilled to bring these works to life with such an exceptional group of artists.”
The concert features MSU artists Zhihua Tang and Deborah Moriarty on piano, Richard Sherman on flute, Yvonne Lam on violin, Eric Nowlin on viola, and Suren Bagratuni on cello, whose artistry brings these French compositions to life.
Additional upcoming West Circle Series Concerts for the 2024-25 season include:
- Happy Birthday, Mozart! Monday, January 27th, 7:30 p.m. Fairchild Theatre, MSU Auditorium
Generously sponsored by the Stanley and Selma Hollander Endowment for Chamber Music.
- Whirlwinds, Monday, April 7th, 7:30 p.m. Fairchild Theatre, MSU Auditorium
Generously sponsored by April Clobes and Glen Brough.The West Circle Series is generously supported by Joanne and Bill Church, with additional sponsorship by Dr. Roy and Christine Meland.
Reserved seating for this and other concerts in the Joanne and Bill Church West Circle Series are $17 for adults, $15 for seniors (age 60 and older), and $7 for students and those under 18 with valid ID, and can be purchased online (music.msu.edu), by calling (517) 353-5340, or at the door. More information on these and other events in the 2024-25 Season can be found at music.msu.edu/events.
