Latest news with #InClassica2025
Gulf Today
08-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
David Aaron Carpenter 'Looking Forward to Showcasing Alexey Shor's Remarkable Talent!'
Gulf Network The InClassica International Music Festival is set to return to Dubai in April 2025 , celebrating its 14th annual edition with a spectacular lineup of world-class musicians, conductors, and orchestras. Running from April 6th to 21st , the festival will present a total of 16 concerts at the iconic Dubai Opera , offering audiences a series of enchanting performances that fuse timeless masterpieces with contemporary works. This special edition is particularly noteworthy as it marks the 55th birthday of Composer-in-Residence Alexey Shor , a prolific contemporary composer whose music has been a defining presence at InClassica in recent years. Among the distinguished artists returning to the festival is David Aaron Carpenter , a renowned violist who has won plaudits and acclaim from audiences across the globe for his commitment to elevating the viola's repertoire. Hailed as one of the world's leading violists, Carpenter has performed with some of the most prestigious orchestras and festivals worldwide, establishing himself as a champion of his instrument. We sat down with him ahead of his performance at InClassica 2025, as he shared his thoughts on returning to the festival, collaborating with esteemed musicians, and his deep connection to Alexey Shor's compositions. The InClassica International MusicnFestival will return to Dubai in April 2025 to celebrate its 14th annualnedition. How does it feel for you to be forming part of this festival, and arenyou looking forward to this latest entry? 'I'm excitednto be returning to the InClassica International Music Festival in Dubai for thenfourth time! I'm particularly looking forward to sharing my music with thenwonderful people of Dubai and performing alongside such an impressive lineup ofnartists." Based on your history withnInClassica, how would you say you view this festival compared to other eventsnof its nature? What is it about it that has drawn you to return to its lineupnonce more? 'I've had the privilege of performing at some of the world's most renowned music festivals, from Aspen to Verbier in Switzerland, and I must say, it's truly impressive that the InClassica International Music Festival has truly established itself as a major player on the global classical music scene. The fact that Dubai can attract talent of this calibre is a testament to the festival's organisers and the city's growing cultural landscape." Since it first came to the UAE inn2021, InClassica has helped usher in a new frontier for classical music withinnDubai and the wider GCC region at large. How important do you think such a movenhas been for the world of classical music, and how do you feel aboutnparticipating in this process? David Aaron Carpenter, American Violinist 'Personally, I feel a deep connection to this region, as my mother is from Iraq. Being here in Dubai, surrounded by the warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage of the Middle East, feels like coming home. I'm honoured to be part of this process, sharing my music and helping to foster a greater appreciation for classical music." Your upcoming concert at thisnedition brings together Fumiaki Miura from Japan, conductor Andrea Battistoninfrom Italy, and the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra. What are your thoughts aboutncollaborating with artists from such diverse cultural backgrounds? 'I'm really proud to be sharing the stage with Fumiaki Miura, Andrea Battistoni, and the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra. I've had the pleasure of knowing Fumiaki for over 13 years, since we first met at the Julian Rachlin Festival in Dubrovnik. He's not only a brilliant violinist but also a wonderful colleague, and I'm excited to reunite and perform with him. I've also been practicing my Japanese, so I'm eager to put it to use with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra." Your concert will feature HectornBerlioz's Roman Carnival Overture, Alexey Shor's Violin and Viola Concerto, andnAntonín Dvořák's Symphony No. 8. What do you think ties these works together,nand how do they complement each other in creating an unforgettable concertnexperience? 'Berlioz's Roman Carnival Overture is a masterclass in operatic scoring and will set the tone for a magical concert. I'm also delighted to perform Alexey Shor's Violin and Viola Concerto, blending virtuosity and musicality with a modern twist and I'm also extremely excited to celebrate Alexey Shor's 55th birthday and honour his work as Composer-in-Residence at InClassica. As a close friend to Alexey, I've had the pleasure of performing several of his compositions. His unique compositional writing and style have always resonated with me, and he has subsequently written over twenty works for viola and orchestra. As a violist, I find his music both challenging and inspiring—pushing the full range of my instrument's expressive capabilities. I am truly looking forward to showcasing his remarkable talent at InClassica! Finally, Dvořák's Symphony No. 8 is a beloved classic, with a rustic charm that is evident in most of Dvořák's compositions. I'm excited to be part of this musical journey, and I think the audience will leave feeling inspired by the performance." 'After this performance, are there any upcoming collaborations or projects you're particularly excited about? 'I'm looking forward to a variety of exciting projects; I have several recording projects in the works, which will allow me to explore new repertoire and collaborate with incredibly talented musicians. I'll also be leading masterclasses in several European cities, which is always a rewarding experience. Sharing my knowledge and passion with the next generation of musicians is an important part of my artistic journey." With his return to InClassica 2025, David Aaron Carpenter is set to bring his signature passion and artistry to the Dubai Opera, continuing his mission to expand the reach of classical music and celebrate the viola on the global stage in an event that is sure to linger on in the minds and hearts of all those fortunate enough to be in attendance. For more information about InClassica 2025, David Aaron Carpenter and Composer-in-Residence Alexey Shor visit the official website at .
Khaleej Times
17-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
"Alexey Shor is a composer with a unique style," says Daniel Lozakovich ahead of InClassica 2025
Dubai is set to welcome back the acclaimed InClassica International Music Festival this April 2025, as the prestigious classical music event makes its eagerly-awaited return for its 14th edition. Running from April 6 to 21 at Dubai Opera, this year's festival promises an unforgettable celebration of classical music, uniting world-class musicians, conductors, and orchestras for a special edition honouring the 55th birthday of composer-in-residence Alexey Shor. Among the stellar artists gracing the stage is Swedish violinist Daniel Lozakovich, a prodigious talent who has captivated audiences worldwide with his emotional performances and technical brilliance. Since making his solo debut at just nine years old, Lozakovich has performed with some of the world's most renowned orchestras and conductors, earning widespread acclaim for his deeply expressive interpretations. A Deutsche Grammophon recording artist since the age of 15, he has built an impressive discography that includes works by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Bach, and Shor. Lozakovich's participation in InClassica 2025 is highly anticipated, with the violinist set to perform in two concerts — on April 12 and April 21. These performances will see him collaborating with the Franz Schubert Filharmonia under the baton of Mikhail Pletnev, as well as presenting a duo recital where Pletnev will accompany him on piano. Remarking on the opportunity to return to InClassica, Lozakovich reflected on the importance of bringing classical music to new audiences, stating that "the most wonderful thing for me is that I have the chance to bring immortal music, which is the most important thing for creating hope for people, and, in particular, to bring this to a place like Dubai. It's such an important contribution to help develop culture and to bring dreams, hope, and reflections of the soul." For Lozakovich, InClassica is a festival unlike any other, with the violinist speaking passionately about InClassica's impact in the UAE, noting the festival's role in cultivating a deeper appreciation for classical music in the region. "Music is something that protects your dreams," he declared, "and it is one of the greatest things to help bring about, especially in a place where it's quite new, like Dubai. And once it starts, it can develop very quickly. Twenty years ago, China had this cultural boom; it was quite new then, and now it's one of the main places for the arts. That's why it's so important to evolve classical music in different regions." Lozakovich's two performances at InClassica 2025 will showcase an exciting and diverse selection of works. In his first concert, the soloist, under the baton of Mikhail Pletnev, will present Alexey Shor's Phoenix Fantasy and Verdiana, two pieces which, in his words, 'represent new visions, a new voice, and we always have to support contemporary music because this brings new dimensions of feelings, and dimensions of feeling that touch the heart.' Then, for their duo recital, Lozakovich and Pletnev will present an eclectic programme featuring Schubert's Sonatina, Grieg's Sonata, Franck's Sonata, and the Shor/Pletnev Sonata. The violinist described this programme as an 'exhibition' of different musical cultures and styles, stating that "these are all different genres, all different spirits, and all different styles. We wanted to show, in some ways, a whole exhibition of different cultures, different times, and different expressions that are each equally immortal." A firm advocate for Alexey Shor's music, Lozakovich praised the composer's ability to create melodies that resonate with both musicians and audiences, as he explained that "Alexey Shor is a composer with a unique style. There is a touch of heart in his melodies, and the way his music is written. Usually, contemporary music is quite complex and is not always very interesting. With Alexey Shor's music, there is always a touch of heart which is unique for contemporary music." Looking ahead beyond InClassica, Lozakovich revealed that he has an exciting season coming up, with scheduled performances in Australia, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, as well as a major new project — the formation of his own string orchestra! "This is being put together for next year', he said. "It's an initiative where I'm combining people with a strong spirit, and people I admire as musicians, all brought together in one string orchestra at the highest level, and this is something I'm very much looking forward to!" For more information about the 2025 edition of InClassica, held in honour of Alexey Shor, and to purchase tickets for any of the concerts, do make sure to visit today.
Emirates 24/7
06-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates 24/7
'I Look Forward to Sharing Alexey Shor's Music' Declares Gil Shaham as InClassica 2025 Draws Closer
Acclaimed American violinist Gil Shaham will be making a triumphant return to the InClassica International Music Festival in April 2025 , bringing his exceptional artistry to the heart of Dubai for the festival's 14th annual edition. This globally celebrated event, taking place from the 6th to the 21st of the month , will unite classical music's finest performers for two weeks of extraordinary concerts, with Shaham set to headline not one, but two performances, which will be featuring works from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Felix Mendelssohn, Johannes Brahms, and Composer-in-Residence Alexey Shor . Reflecting on his past experiences with InClassica, Shaham shared his excitement about rejoining the festival and returning to Dubai, remarking that 'it has been an honour to be part of this festival in the past. My personal experience with InClassica was one of sharing music with friends; it is a special occasion for accomplished musicians, passionate music lovers and others to interact together. I am looking forward to April and feel very lucky to be part of the InClassica International Music Festival once again!' 'Dubai is becoming a hub for music as well', he continued. 'Music brings people together and enriches all of our lives. I grew up with this music and devoted most of my life to it and I believe it makes people's lives better, so being part of a new frontier and playing this music in the GCC is a great honour.' Shaham's performances will both be hosted at the spectacular Dubai Opera on the 14th and 16th of April respectively, where the violinist will be collaborating with the esteemed Franz Schubert Filharmonia for the first time in his career, under the direction of two distinguished conductors – Maestros Tomas Grau and Sergey Smbatyan . 'I am very much looking forward to these collaborations', he declared. 'Sergey and I have performed several times before, including in Dubai, but this will be my first time working with Maestro Grau and the Franz Schubert Filharmonia. We will meet in February in Barcelona and will be well prepared for our concerts in April! It should be really fun.' Shaham's repertoire for InClassica 2025 is a carefully curated blend of beloved classics and contemporary masterpieces. For his first concert within the festival, the evening will open with the Overture to Mozart's seminal opera The Marriage of Figaro , followed by Alexey Shor's Violin Concerto No. 4, and Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4 in A major, 'Italian'. On his second visit, audiences can enjoy the soloist's inimitable interpretations of Alexey Shor's Violin Concerto No. 1 'Seascapes', and St. Elmo Barcarole, with the orchestra then set to close proceedings with Brahms's monumental Symphony No. 1. 'I believe each evening will surprise audiences and at the same time comfort them with much beloved and familiar music,' Shaham said. 'As a violinist, I enjoy playing Alexey Shor's solos as they allow the instrument to sing and interplay with the orchestra almost like a protagonist in an opera would. Each evening has an arc to it and the selections both contrast and complement each other.' Shaham's connection to Alexey Shor's music runs deep, with the violinist often having performed his works in the past, and this year's festival takes on an even more special significance since it will be honouring the composer's 55th birthday. The violinist reflected on this celebration, as well as Shor's distinct style, which has now won plaudits among critics and audiences worldwide, as he stated that 'I am happy and honored to be part of this celebration of my friend Alexey Shor's 55th birthday. I believe he has described his pieces as being related to the 'grand style' he grew up hearing. My personal experience is that audiences consistently respond well to his compositions and even these days as I am practicing at home preparing for the concerts, my family members are humming and whistling his melodies. I look forward to sharing his music!' For more information about the 2025 InClassica International Music Festival make sure to visit the official website at . Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Khaleej Times
31-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
From reopening Notre-Dame de Paris to InClassica 2025 at Dubai Opera
On the December 7, 2024, the world turned its gaze to Paris as the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral reopened its doors, nearly six years after the devastating fire that threatened one of humanity's most iconic landmarks. Among the star-studded lineup of artists who performed at the historic reopening concert was acclaimed Swedish violinist Daniel Lozakovich, whose emotive performance underscored the event's themes of resilience, unity, and renewal. This unforgettable appearance came just months before Lozakovich is set to take the stage at the 2025 InClassica International Music Festival, where he will be joining an extraordinary roster of musicians who will be gathering in Dubai this coming April for two weeks of high-end classical concerts. For the reopening concert of Notre-Dame, Lozakovich was joined by such luminaries as Yo-Yo Ma, Lang Lang, and Pretty Yende, who all came together to honour the cathedral's restoration with music that echoed its timeless grandeur. The Swedish violinist's performance was a standout moment in an evening filled with artistic brilliance, showcasing his unparalleled ability and inimitable talent on his instrument, as he captivated millions watching across Paris and all over the world. "It's an honour to be part of the reopening of the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral', Lozakovich said, 'a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance. Performing alongside Maestro Gustavo Dudamel and Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France in this sacred church is a moment I will always cherish.' As the world continues to celebrate Lozakovich's stirring performance at Notre-Dame, anticipation is now building for his upcoming appearance at the InClassica 2025. The festival, renowned for its stellar lineup of world-class musicians, will see Lozakovich performing as one of its featured soloists in not one, but two of its concerts, showcasing his artistry with audiences in the UAE's most populous city. The violinist shall be teaming up with legendary pianist and conductor Mikhail Pletnev on both occasions, giving classical music lovers the rare opportunity to witness such celebrated maestros in live performance together. For their first collaboration, on the 12th of April, Pletnev will be taking on the role of conductor, leading the Franz Schubert Filharmonia as they accompany Lozakovich in performances of works from the pen of Composer-in-Residence Alexey Shor, while also presenting a piece written by Pletnev himself. The second entry, meanwhile, will see the duo taking over InClassica's stage as they close off the festival on April 21st with a recital featuring seminal works from Franz Schubert, Edvard Grieg, and César Franck, as well as a special collaborative composition created jointly by Pletnev and Shor. Lozakovich, who has had the chance to perform music by Shor before, spoke fondly of this experience, noting that 'Shor's music is very lyrical, which is rare for modern music. I am very glad that there are such people who can write such beautiful music and that I can play it; it inspires me, and I'm really honoured that there are people like Alexey Shor and, of course, Maestro Pletnev who are willing to dedicate themselves to the music world in this way'. InClassica 2025 marks the festival's 14th edition and promises to be a celebration of classical music on a grand scale. Lozakovich's involvement in these two monumental events speaks to his role as a global ambassador for classical music, and underscores his commitment to using his art to inspire and unite. With a career already marked by extraordinary achievements, his presence continues to reaffirm his place among the most exciting musicians of our time, and it is with an eager heart that audiences around the world are now looking to witness the next chapter of his remarkable journey this coming April. For more information about Lozakovich's appearances at the 2025 InClassica International Music Festival, make sure to visit
Khaleej Times
31-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Witness the return of Mikhail Pletnev's £100,000 piano at InClassica 2025
Renowned Russian pianist Mikhail Pletnev is gearing up for his highly anticipated performance at InClassica 2025 with his beloved 'SK-EX Shigeru Kawai' grand piano, which follows him all over the world. The prized instrument, a top-of-the-line product of Shigeru Kawai series of grand pianos specially manufactured and tuned for the musician by Kawai in Hamamatsu, Japan, was robbed in 2023 while en route to a concert in Palermo, Italy, where the pianist was performing. The van containing the piano, worth an estimated £100,000, was stolen by thieves from a parking garage which Pletnev employs for all dates of his international tour, leaving him and his fans devastated at the loss of his invaluable device. After a tense spell, the piano, albeit damaged, was retrieved by Italian police. It has since been brought back to its original glory and fully restored with the help of tuner Arimune Yamamoto, ready to accompany Pletnev back to the stage where it truly belongs. For the maestro whose international performances rely heavily on this specific piano, the recovery of the instrument signifies a fresh chapter in his career, leading him to his highly-anticipated return to The InClassica International Music Festival 2025 in 5 different roles in Dubai. This ground-breaking affair, taking place from the 6th to the 21st of April, will bring together classical music's finest soloists, conductors, and orchestras for two weeks of dazzling performances. Marking its 14th anniversary, this edition dedicated to Composer-In-Residence Alexey Shor is extra special as it allows audiences to witness the virtuoso's invaluable presence across four concerts and five different roles. On April 9, he will perform as a soloist with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra under Andrea Battistoni. Then, on April 12, he will conduct the Franz Schubert Philharmonia with the young violin sensation Daniel Lozakovich featuring 14 Mémoires Musicales, a piece for orchestra inspired by Pletnev's life memories from childhood through youth, conveyed through simplicity and powerful emotions. He will also present a solo recital on April 19 with a curated selection of works spanning the best in classical music before bringing the festival to a close with a spectacular grand finale, a duo recital on April 21 accompanied by Lozakovich. As one of the most charismatic musicians of the 21st century, Mikhail Pletnev has rightfully earned icon status in the world of classical music. Born in the northern Russian port of Arkhangelsk in 1957 to musician parents who taught at the local conservatory, he achieved widespread acclaim after winning first prize at the 1978 Tchaikovsky International Piano Competition at age 21. Since then, his recordings have earned numerous accolades, including a 2005 Grammy Award for his own arrangement of Prokofiev's Cinderella and the 1996 Gramophone Award for his critically acclaimed album of Scarlatti's Sonatas. Pianist, conductor, composer, and cultural leader, remarkably talented Mikhail Pletnev is one to watch for at the world's biggest musical observatory, InClassica 2025, set against the stunning backdrop of the Dubai Opera.
