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About The New Britain Museum of American Art
The New Britain Museum of American Art’s founding in 1903 entitles the institution to be designated the first museum of strictly American art in the country. The singular focus on American art and its panoramic view of American artistic achievement makes the New Britain Museum of American Art a significant teaching resource available to the local, regional, and national public. The New Britain Museum of American Art welcomes all people to explore American art through our permanent collection, special exhibitions, and incredible programs. More info at nbmaa.org.
FALL 2024 EVENTS
SEPTEMBER
14 Colin Jost 21 The Piano Guys
OCTOBER
3 Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert 8 With Ukraine in Our Hearts* 17 Australian Chamber Orchestra* 19 Capitol Fools
20 Pinkalicious The Musical
26 Michael Feinstein, Because of You: "My Tribute to Tony Bennett" - Cabaret
NOVEMBER
10 My Father's Dragon
15 Some Enchanted Evening with Stella Cole
17 Arsentiy Kharitonov*
22 Bennewitz Quartet & Arsentiy Kharitonov*
DECEMBER
7 Holiday Pops
14 Samara Joy, "A Joyful Holiday" with the McLendon Family - Cabaret
*The Lenard Chamber Music Series is made possible through the Lenard Chamber Music Endowment. Thanks to the Lenard Endowment, UConn students, non-UConn students, and youth under 18 are invited to attend all chamber events for free.
Tickets & information: jorgensen.uconn.edu
Note: all artists, events, dates, programs and policies are subject to change.
Jorgensen Front Cover: Stella Cole Photo: Cole McManus
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
JORGENSEN BOX OFFICE
(860) 486-4226
jorgensen.uconn.edu
Hours Mon-Fri, 10-5 pm, and 90 minutes before curtain.
CRT BOX OFFICE
(860) 486-2113
crt.uconn.edu
Hours Mon-Fri, 11-1 pm, and 60 minutes before curtain.
LATE ARRIVALS
Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the artists’ management.
CAMERAS AND RECORDING DEVICES
Strictly prohibited.
SMOKING
Not permitted within 25 feet of the building.
CHILDREN AND INFANTS
Tickets are required for everyone, no matter how young. Minimum 4 years old recommended for Jorgensen Center events and CRT productions.
BAG POLICY
For the safety of all, bags and backpacks larger than 10” x 10” are prohibited in the theater. Small bags and purses are permitted. An exception will be made for medically necessary items and diaper bags after proper inspection. All bags are subject to search.
SPECIAL SERVICE
Accessible rest rooms located in the lower Jorgensen & Katter lobbies. Elevator service from the main Jorgensen lobby down to the lower lobby only.
ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM
Free from the front office for Jorgensen and Katter Theatre productions.
TOO LOUD?
Free hearing protection is available upon request from the front office.
LOST AND FOUND ARTICLES
Can be reported or picked up at each box office.
PARKING & TRAVEL
Parking is available across from Jorgensen in the North Garage. For a detailed parking map, visit park.uconn.edu
PLEASE NOTE:
The parking fee for Jorgensen events is now included as part of your ticket price. Patrons no longer have to pay upon entry or exit in the North Garage. All gates have been removed and gateless parking begins one hour prior to showtime through the conclusion of each performance. Please note: this applies to North Garage only.
REFRESHMENT BARS
Enjoy refreshments at your seat. Bars located in the upper Jorgensen and main lobbies of each theater.
GROUP TICKETS
Call the respective box office for more information.
REST ROOMS
Located in the upper and lower Jorgensen lobbies and the Katter Theatre lobby.
CRT parking is available after 5pm and on weekends in surrounding University lots. Surface lots are free; garages will charge a fee.
IMPORTANT UPDATE:
Hillside Road on the UConn Storrs campus is closed to vehicular traffic between Glenbrook Road and Jim Calhoun Way. Motorists who park in North Garage should access the garage by taking Discovery Drive or Glenbrook Road to the garage entrance on north Hillside Road.
Friday, November 15, 2024, 8 pm
University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts
Deanna Fitzgerald, Dean Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts
Rodney Rock, Director presents
ABOUT THE PRODUCTION
Celebrating a century of musical magic from beloved Broadway shows, “Some Enchanted Evening” is a jazz-steeped sojourn exploring a bevy of the American Songbook’s most enduring hits from the golden age to today, combining timeless music and dance. Led by 33-year-old Emmynominated trumpeter and crooner Benny Benack III, the performance features the lavishly gifted singer and social media sensation, Stella Katherine Cole and tap dance phenom, Jabu Graybeal.
BENNY BENACK III (Trumpet, Vocals, Music Director)
By age 31, Emmy-nominated trumpeter and singer Benny Benack III has proven to be that rarest of talents: not only a fiery trumpet player with a stirring command of the post-bop trumpet vernacular in the vein of Kenny Dorham and Freddie Hubbard, but also a singer with a sly, mature, naturally expressive delivery in the postSinatra mold, performing standards and his own astute songs with a thrilling sense of showmanship. This duel-threat ability was recognized by the 2022 Downbeat Critics Poll where he appeared as not only the #2 Rising Star Male Vocalist, but a top Rising Star Trumpeter as well. His superb intonation and bracing virtuosity enable him to handle astounding feats of originally composed vocalese (complex solos with written lyrics). On top of it all, he’s a highly capable pianist as well.
Benny has performed internationally as an Emcee/Host for the YouTube sensation Postmodern Jukebox, and achieved his own viral success amassing millions of views for his crooning alongside the Grammy-award winning “8-Bit Big Band”. In early 2020 he released A Lot of Livin’ to Do, the follow-up to his wellreceived 2017 debut One of a Kind. This sophomore effort, richly varied in mood and brimming with bop inflection, features bassist
extraordinaire and jazz ambassador Christian McBride (whose Grammy-award winning Big Band frequently calls upon Benny in the trumpet section) and drummer/producer Ulysses Owens, Jr., as well as the radiant Takeshi Ohbayashi on piano and Rhodes. His vocalese duet on “Social Call” from this album alongside fellow young star vocalist Veronica Swift became an instant smash hit single, being transcribed and learned by jazz vocalists around the world.
Alongside his global touring as a straight-ahead/contemporary bandleader, Benny has appeared as a trumpet soloist in more commercial circles alongside Josh Groban, Ben Folds, fashion icon Isaac Mizrahi, Ann Hampton Callaway and more. He’s been featured at Birdland, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Mezzrow, Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle and other leading New York venues and has also been a special guest with the Pittsburgh Symphony Pops Orchestra, the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, and the Minsk Philharmonic Orchestra. He made his television debut in NBC’s short-lived, SNL-inspired variety show “Maya & Marty” playing in the in-studio band led by acclaimed bassist & Broadway arranger Charlie Rosen. His global recognition has been bolstered by recent live-streaming concerts at Smalls Jazz Club, where he maintains a weekly residency, as well as frequent appearances on fellow young lion Emmet Cohen’s “Emmet’s Place” weekly show.
Third in a generational line of Pittsburgh jazz notables, Benny follows in the footsteps of his trumpeter/bandleader grandfather, Benny Benack, Sr. (1921-86), and his father Benny Benack, Jr., a saxophonist/clarinetist who gave the young Benny his first professional experience. Benny, Sr. hailed from a Pittsburgh lineage that also produced Roy Eldridge, Earl Hines, Art Blakey, Billy Strayhorn and so many more. He recorded the Pittsburgh Pirates’ 1960 theme song “Beat ’Em Bucs” and toured with Tommy Dorsey
and Raymond Scott, among others. Benny III returns to Pittsburgh often to perform, saluting his family forebears and the jazz heritage as a whole, nonetheless staking his bold and highly individual artistic claim. He is an endorsing artist with Torpedo Bags cases, CarolBrass flugelhorns, as well as various menswear fashion lines including X-Suit, Alain Dupetit, Proper Cloth & Vittone.
STELLA COLE (Vocals)
To watch Stella Cole perform is to be transported back in time. Her sense of joy and wonder is infectious – one look at her massive social media following makes this clear. Take a quick scroll through the comments of any of her many viral videos and you'll see not only her irresistible charm, but an ability to expose fans of all ages to the wonders of the Great American Songbook, especially when these timeless stories are told honestly by an artist with an uncanny ability to transcend generations.
On her highly anticipated debut recording, Stella is presented performing interpreting a collection of classics in a variety of settings, including many featuring an orchestra arranged by multiple Grammy-winner Alan Broadbent. Featuring songs made famous by everyone from Barbra Streisand (“When the Sun Comes Out”) and Judy Garland (“The Boy Next Door” and a classic reinterpretation of “Over the Rainbow”) to Billie Eilish (“My Future”) and Audrey Hepburn (“Moon River” of course!), it is sure to be one of the most impressive vocal recordings of 2024.
Upon first hearing Stella Cole, one is immediately struck by her rich tone and extraordinary vocal control. However, what is particularly rare is her ability to interpret songs that were initially intended for actors in character in a direct, personally vulnerable way that connects to something within herself, placing her in the lineage of the greatest interpreters of the repertoire. Perhaps most exciting, to
her many young fans, who have never heard these songs before, these are Stella Cole songs, which clearly makes her one of the most exciting artists of her generation.
JABU GRAYBEAL (Tap Dance)
From Pittsboro, NC, award winning artist Jabu Graybeal first studied with JUBA award winner Gene Medler and was a member for nine years of the North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble (NCYTE), one of the most renowned youth tap companies in the world. Jabu is a Jacob’s Pillow and YoungArts Foundation alumni who has worked and performed with a diverse group of companies, such as Caleb Teicher & Company, Emmy Nominee Chloe Arnold’s Apartment 33, Michelle Dorrance, Riverdance, and American choreographer Justin Peck. He is featured in Apple TV’s movie music “Spirited with Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds. He was the first tap dancer to be accepted into the Berklee Global Jazz Institute Workshop at the Newport Jazz Festival and was included, under a nomination from Michelle Dorrance, in the December 2017 issue of Dance Spirit magazine as one of the dancers to look for in the next generation of tap dance. Jabu Graybeal is a touring star member of Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox and 1/2 of East Coast based music duo “SUMMERZOVR”.
LIYA GRIGORYAN (Piano)
Liya Grigoryan is an Armenian born pianist who started her music career at the very young age of 5. Already then, she was actively participating in music competitions and performing at major music festivals in Russia, Ukraine, and Europe. Liya won her first award when she was 7 in 1998 at the International Jazz Competition for young jazz musicians in St. Petersburg. At 9, Liya took part at the Len- expo (Russia) contest where she won the main prize – a brand new piano – that allowed her to continue her music studies. She
was part of a young jazz collective that toured as part of a cultural exchange in Germany, France and Scotland, performing at various prestigious music venues.
After graduating music school in 2009, Liya decided to continue her music education abroad and in 2010, moved to Amsterdam, Netherlands where she entered the Conservatorium van Amsterdam on a full scholarship and graduated in 2016 with a master’s in jazz performance. During her time there, Liya joined the East West Jazz Orchestra (based in Dortmund, Germany) touring all over Germany, Czech Republic, Belgium, Russia, and the Netherlands. Liya actively performed as a sideman and as a leader of her own project. She’s performed all over Europe in the most prestigious concert halls and venues such as Bimhuis (Netherlands), Concertgebouw Hall (Netherlands), Mariinsky Theatre Hall (St. Petersburg, Russia), Jazz Philharmonic Hall (Russia) to name a few. She’s also had the opportunity to perform and tour with internationally acclaimed artists such as Theo Crocker, Randy Brecker, Chad LB, Dick Oats, John Clayton, Justin Dicoccio, and others.
In 2014, Liya received an award at the Getxo Jazz (Bilbao, Spain) where she had the opportunity to open for jazz legend, Jack DeJohnette. In 2017 she released her first record as a leader, which received high acclaim in the jazz community and gave her opportunities to perform at numerous jazz festivals. In 2019, Liya was selected as of one the finalist of the prestigious Thelonius Monk Jazz Competition.
RUSSELL HALL (Bass)
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Russell Hall began his journey as an actor from the tender age of 3. Performing in Jamaican adaptations of popular musicals to serious prose, he was destined to take the stage. Everything changed when he migrated to the United States in 2007.
Under the tutelage of The Commodores, he discovered the bridge between the world of drama and the world of music. He progressed quickly from the electric bass to the double bass through the rigorous programs of The Dillard Center for the Arts and The Juilliard School. Now, he is revered as one of the most in demand artist in New York City, performing with some of the biggest names in music, dance and film. His work is featured on the Grammy nominated album “My Favorite Things” by Joey Alexander, “Motherless Brooklyn”, a film by Edward Norton which was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Score, and HBO’s “Masterclass Series” which feature Wynton Marsalis as a master teacher which was nominated for an Emmy. Russell’s own work has been acknowledged with prestige in some of the most renowned venues and festivals around the world such as The Appel Room, The St. Lucia Jazz Festival, The Apollo, The Marciac Jazz Festival and many more. His most recent album, “Deep Blue Sea”, is available on all platforms with the band he fronts Bessie and the Rainbowkids.
JOE PERI (Drums)
Drummer, percussionist, and educator Joe Peri is primarily known as a jazz drummer, but he has played with a diverse range of bands and performers all around the world since arriving in New York City in 2009. Joe performs regularly in New York City’s most renowned jazz clubs such as Smalls, Dizzy’s, the Jazz Gallery, Cellar Dog, Zinc Bar, and Birdland to name a few. Since graduating from the Manhattan School of Music in 2015, Joe has collaborated with numerous notable jazz artists like Kurt Rosenwinkel, Seamus Blake, Ed Cherry, Peter Bernstein, Dave Kikoski, and Aaron Goldberg among many others. In 2018, Joe recorded with Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga on their Grammy Award-winning album “Love For Sale” released in October of 2021. The album, a tribute to Cole Porter, was Bennett’s final studio recording. Joe also performs regularly as the
JORGENSEN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
percussionist in the band of fashion designer and personality Isaac Mizrahi. Joe has significant ties to Finland, having lived in Helsinki for the years 2020 and 2021. He is married to Finnish jazz bassist, Kaisa Mäensivu, and has played in her band "Kaisa's Machine" since 2021. They currently reside in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan.
As a passionate proponent of jazz education, Joe has maintained a highly sought-after private lesson studio in Manhattan, and he is currently the private instructor of Jazz Drum Set at the prestigious Manhattan School of Music Pre-College Division. A two-time graduate of the Manhattan School of Music (BM ’13 & MM ’15), Joe studied under the watchful eye of master drummer John Riley of the Village Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. Joe’s first album as a leader, “Perillä”, was released February 24th, 2023 on the Turku, Finland-based label Flame Jazz Records.
JARIEN JAMANILA (Saxophone)
Jarien Jamanila is a musician born and raised in San Diego, California. He resided there until he moved to pursue a bachelor's degree at the Juilliard School. He settled in New York City after graduating in 2021 and has been freelancing since then. His musical voice ranges from all the common saxophones, clarinets, and flutes. Some of his key influences include Thelonious Monk, Johnny Hodges, and Sarah Vaughan. He stays very consistent in his daily life regarding expanding his craft, his health, and his philosophy. The past few years he’s developed an extreme affinity for reading. Some of the books that have recently shaped his thoughts include Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations”, Langston Hughes’ “Selected Poems”, and the Book of Psalms. His faith in God is a constant source of peace in his life. These attributes are fundamental in perpetuating his creativity.
Sunday, November 17, 2024, 3 pm
University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts
Deanna Fitzgerald, Dean Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts
Rodney Rock, Director presents
ARSENTIY KHARITONOV
Co-Sponsor
National Institute for the Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine
Media Sponsors
Shupp Artists Management, Inc 202 Michigan Ave, Port Jefferson, NY 11777
https://shuppartists.com
PROGRAM
Robert Schumann: Arabesque in C Major, Op. 18 (1810-1856)
Symphonic Etudes, Op. 13
— INTERMISSION —
César Franck: Prelude, Fugue, and Variation (1822-1890)
Arsentiy Kharitonov: Impromptu (1984)
Pavane
Morceau
Etude #3
Sergei Rachmaninoff: Prelude in G-flat Major (1873-1943)
Etude-Tableau Op. 39, No. 5
Prelude in D Major
Etude-Tableau Op. 39, No. 9
ARSENTIY KHARITONOV
Hailing from St. Petersburg, this remarkable Russian/American pianist and composer, Arsentiy Kharitonov, is first-prize winner of the Franz Liszt International Piano Competition (US). After also winning the Rachmaninoff Competition (Russian Federation), Arsentiy began his concert career with engagements throughout Europe including appearances at the Philharmonic Hall and the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, at the Royal Conservatory, Stockholm, and the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, followed by Asian tours with performances in the major halls of, among others, Shanghai, Beijing, and Seoul. On this continent, he has been invited to - among others - the Frick Collection, Carnegie Hall, St. John’s Cathedral and Steinway Hall of NYC, to the National Gallery of Art, the French Embassy, and Catholic University of Washington, DC, in Dallas, Salt Lake City , San Jose, Los Angeles, Costa Mesa, Vancouver and Ottawa. Of his debut performance at Carnegie Hall, The New York Observer wrote “The Russian pianist and composer Arsentiy Kharitonov proved to be the newest addition to the top ranks of this season’s artists”, calling it “one of the top six concerts of the season”. Fanfare Magazine writes, “Arsentiy Kharitonov’s sumptuous tone, technical mastery, broad dramatic range, and elegant phrasing place him in the top ranks of keyboard players today.”
Arsentiy has very successfully performed his own works exclusively at the Tchaikovsky House and Museum outside of Moscow, the Rachmaninov House in Moscow, the Nizhni Novgorod Philharmonic and at the Philharmonic of Belgorod and selections of his works within his general programs. Within 2024 he is also joining the Bennewitz Quartet in Dvorak and Schumann quintets duringtwo of their tours. The artist’s recordings for Toccata Classics include the complete piano works of Leo Ornstein as well as the complete chamber works
of Robert Kahn. Masterpieces by Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff, and Scriabin can be heard on the Hartshorn Classical label. His recording of works by Bach/Siloti, Schubert, Mussorgsky and Kharitonov and the set of his own 6 Etudes and Schumann’s Kreisleriana were released on Sound Atlas.
Arsentiy the composer added some exciting news when he won the gold medal -1st prize of the prestigious 2020 National Competition of Russian Composers, for his “Four Vignettes” for four violins. In addition he also received a special prize by the Composer's Union of Russia. Having used the quarantine period well, he also completed his violin concerto “Miroirs” which will be premiered in the spring of 2025 by the Tulsa Symphony; his piano concerto – with Arsentiy as soloist with the Kandinsky Symphony – was premiered in Yerevan, Armenia, in June of 2024. Composer Samuel Adler had this to say recently about Arsentiy’s works: “In the past few weeks I have become acquainted with the music of Arsentiy Kharitonov and find it very strong, vital and extremely exciting. Here is a composer and also a fabulous pianist, who should be much better known for the music that he composes, since it is so very constructive and immediately effective. His piano music as well as his chamber and orchestra works should become favorites with anyone who is fortunate enough to get to know them.” Arsentiy Kharitonov currently also teaches in Denton, TX.
C oSt rs★
Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts
2024 - 2025 Co-Chairs: Jane Moskowitz & Ruth Buczynski
$750 per person, $1,500 per couple
Elena Sevilla & Paul Aho
Mona & Greg Anderson
Marianne Barton
Deborah Walsh Bellingham
In Memory of
Dr. Bruce A. Bellingham
Honey & Harry Birkenruth
Ruth Buczynski
Carol Colombo
In Memory of Maurice Thompson
Susan & John DeWolf
Stan & Sandy Hale
Judy & Peter Halvorson
Patricia Hempel
Shareen Hertel & Donald Swinton
Jan Huber
Lynn & Harry Johnson
Blair T. Johnson & Blanche Şerban
Janet & George Jones
Lin & Waldo Klein
James Knox
Ann Kouatly
Becky & Scott Lehmann
Jean & John Lenard
Gene Likens & Leola Spilbor
Margarethe & Matthew Mashikian
Antonia Moran
Vin Moscardelli & Virginia Hettinger
Jane & Robert Moskowitz
Constance & Rodney Rock
Nancy & John Silander
Beverly Sims & William Okeson
Winthrop Smith
In Memory of Anne K. Smith
Michael & Susan Zito
Join the CoStars, Jorgensen’s Active Volunteers!
The CoStars is a special group of volunteers who generously donate not only $750 per person, but also their talent and time. The invaluable CoStars support Jorgensen through community advocacy by creative fund-raising activities, and by hosting pre- and post-concert receptions that often feature world-class luminaries. The CoStars have been instrumental in the purchase of the new portable chamber stage and acoustical shell, a new Steinway Model D Concert Grand Piano, funding the JOY! Conservatory Program, the installation of the exterior Jorgensen message center, the renovation of the Jorgensen Gallery, and continued support of Jorgensen programming. By becoming a CoStar, you’ll join with other vibrant, thoughtful and devoted arts lovers who have made Jorgensen’s success a priority.
CoStars receive an honorary membership in the Jorgensen Circle of Friends at the Producers Circle level. Benefits include early ticket ordering privileges for one full year from the date of enrollment; reserved lower-level parking in the North Garage, providing a speedier exit after each Jorgensen event; and recognition in the Jorgensen playbill.
As a Special Thank You... An Invitation to the CoStars
CoStar members receive an exclusive invitation to attend the Annual Sneak Peek hosted by Jorgensen Director Rodney Rock. This party offers attendees an exciting preview of the coming season – prior to the public announcement. Join the CoStars and be the first to know what’s new!
If you are interested in becoming a CoStar, please contact Rodney Rock at 860-486-1983, or by e-mail at rodney.rock@uconn.edu.
Circle of Friends 2024-2025 Jorgensen
Become a Friend of Jorgensen!
We invite you to join Jorgensen’s Circle of Friends, a group of generous arts supporters who over the years have made vital contributions to Jorgensen’s special projects, commissioned works, and interior restorations. Your membership in the Circle of Friends entitles you to early ticket ordering privileges for one full year from the date of your enrollment; you will be recognized in the Jorgensen Playbill; and if you contribute at the Directors or Producers Circle levels, you will enjoy reserved parking in the North Campus Parking Garage for each Jorgensen performance you attend.
Please consider making your tax-deductible donation and become a Circle of Friends member today. Simply call 860-486-4226 for more information.
Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts gratefully acknowledges the support of its Friends.
Producers Circle
$500/person
$1,000 & above/couple
Elena Sevilla & Paul Aho*
Mona & Greg Anderson*
Marianne Barton*
Deborah Walsh Bellingham*
In Memory of Dr. Bruce A. Bellingham*
Honey & Harry Birkenruth*
Lynn Brown
Ruth Buczynski*
Carol Colombo*
In Memory of Maurice Thompson*
Michael Cucka
Susan & John DeWolf*
Ms. Joan N. Gionfriddo
Stan & Sandy Hale*
Judy & Peter Halvorson*
Patricia Hempel*
Shareen Hertel & Donald Swinton*
Jan Huber*
Lynn & Harry Johnson*
Blair T. Johnson & Blanche Şerban*
Janet & George Jones*
Lin & Waldo Klein*
James Knox*
Ann Kouatly*
Becky & Scott Lehmann*
Jean & John Lenard*
Gene Likens & Leola Spilbor*
Tom Martin & Susan Spiggle
Margarethe & Matthew Mashikian*
Antonia Moran*
Vin Moscardelli & Virginia Hettinger*
Jane & Robert Moskowitz*
Craig & Karen Nass
Barbara Rhein & Stan Shaw
Constance & Rodney Rock*
Stella Ross & Eric Schultz
Cheryl A. & Mark J. Roy
Nancy & John Silander*
Beverly Sims & William Okeson*
Winthrop Smith*
In Memory of Anne K. Smith*
Dana Wilder
Keith Wilson & Marjorie Hayes
Karen Zimmer & Roger Ingraham
Michael & Susan Zito*
*Members of the Jorgensen CoStars
Directors Circle
$250/person,
$500/couple
Mr. Phil Brencher
Keith & Paula Enderle
Mr. David Johnson
David & Carol Jordan
Kelly Olander
Steven & Barbara Rogers
Ms. Joanne Sousa
Ms. Nancy A. Swiacki
In honor of
Janina W. Swiacki & Nancy A. Swiacki
Artists Circle
$125/person, $250/couple
Anonymous
Pat Anderson
Mrs. Dorothy Blocker
Bennett & Linda Brockman
Anne-Marie Campbell
Dr. & Mrs. Steven & Elaine Cohen
M. Kevin & Jeanne Fahey
Betty Hale
Betty & Ken Hanson
Ms. Cathy Jameson & Ms. Renee Fournier
Col. & Dr. Leonard & Judith Kaplan
Mary Lacek & Neil Aldin
Gerald & Zoe Leibowitz
Carl Nawrocki
Len Oberg
Harriet Walker
Patrons Circle
$50/person,
$100/couple
Roger & Tina Abell
Roger & Cynthia Adams
Ms. Sandra Albom
Susan & John Boland
Irene & Richard Brown
Kevin Conklin
Paul D’Italia
Mary & Michael Donnelly
Dr. & Mrs. Ed & Susan Grace
Peter Jacques
Richard & Karin James
Art Kirschenbaum &
Cheryl Pomerantz
Yves & Carol Kraus
Donald Kray
Shoshana Levinson & Chris Crossgrove
Robin Lubatkin
Jennifer Macionus
Susan Phillips
Edith Posselt
Yvonne & Joseph Prudente
Laura T. Raccagni
Bonnie Ryan
Mr. & Mrs. Eric A. Santini
Ms. Jacqueline Seide
Paul & Annette Shapiro
Dr. Jay S. Shivers
Susan Stoppelman
Jamie Summers
Jeremy Teitelbaum
Adeline Theis
Ms. Susanna Thomas
Shirley Waldron
Critics Circle
$25/person, $50/couple
Anonymous
Joyce Armstrong
Charles Cleary
Howard & Carol Drescher
Drs. Rebecaa & Jacob Earp
Mrs. Joy Favretti
Margaret & Peter Files
Wendy Leclair
Joseph & Francine Linonis
Mr. & Mrs. Wesley & Mary Lord
Jennifer Macionus
Mr. & Mrs. Joeph Madar
Donna Matulis
John H. Mayer & Irwin M. Krieger
Mr. & Mrs. Alan Miller
Robert G. Paris
Peter Polomski
Jim & Sari Rosokoff
Rabbi Jeremy Schwartz & Ms. Merle Potchinsky
Joann Scott
Mrs. Pamela Sutkaitis
Patricia Tanaka
Denise Winland
Director’s Fund
Diane & Joseph Briody
Karen & John Foley
Ann Kouatly
Jennifer & Peter Morenus
NICABM
Nancy & John Silander
Endowed Sponsorship Program
The Endowed Sponsorship Program provides individuals and families with the opportunity to support Jorgensen by sponsoring any concert or other program. Benefits to Endowed Sponsors will include name recognition in the Jorgensen playbill, additional recognition in the community through press releases provided by the University, and an opportunity to visit with the guest artist.
Sponsorship could be a means of celebrating a special holiday or anniversary, or of dedicating an event to a loved one. Most importantly, by contributing to the cost of current programs, sponsors would help ensure that the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts will continue to present wonderful music and other programs in the future. Your gift would benefit not only Jorgensen, but also the community at large.
Patrons interested in sponsoring an event should contact Rodney Rock at 860-486-1983 or rodney.rock@uconn.edu for further information.
Jorgensen Outreach for Youth
Funded through private contributions as well as corporate support, JOY! provides school-age children, many from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with access to live performances and special enrichment programs. Now in its 16th season, the JOY! Conservatory program offers instrumental and vocal students in grades 9-12 the opportunity for a rigorous course of study including private lessons, ensemble rehearsals and coaching, and basic musicianship courses. For more information, contact Jorgensen director Rodney Rock at 860-486-1983.
Corporate / Foundation Sponsors
SBM Charitable Foundation
Diamond / $1000+
Honey & Harry Birkenruth
Harry & Lynn Johnson
Jean & John Lenard
Nancy & John Silander
Mrs. Nora Stevens
Ruby / $300+
James Knox
Becky & Scott Lehmann
The University of Connecticut League, Inc.
Sapphire / $100+
Ms. Margaret Dillon & Dr. Larry Bowman
Maryellen Donnelly & James Krall
Jan Huber
Carol & David Jordan
Craig Knox
In memory of Jane L. Knox
The McChesney Family
In honor of James Knox
Joanne Sousa
Pearl / up to $99
Sabrina & Daniel Bowersett
Paul D’Italia
Dr. Alain Frogley
Karen Jason
Elizabeth Kemp
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Linonis
Robin Lubatkin
Bonnie Ryan
Lenard Chamber Music Endowment Fund
The Lenard Chamber Series is made possible through the generosity of longtime patrons Jean and John Lenard and the Lenard Chamber Music Endowment.
Thanks to the generous philanthropy of patrons Jean and John Lenard, chamber music, one of the hallmarks and most dearly loved elements of the programming at Jorgensen, is secure well into the future. Also thanks to the Lenard Endowment, UConn students, non-UConn students, and area youth are invited to attend all chamber music events for free.
Please join this giving community and make your contribution today. To make a gift, contact Jorgensen Director Rodney Rock at rodney.rock@uconn.edu or 860-486-1983, or visit jorgensen.uconn.edu/online/article/lenard-endowment.
Jean & John Lenard
Elena Sevilla & Paul Aho
Greg & Mona Anderson
Deborah Walsh Bellingham
Ruth Buczynski
Carol Colombo
Anne D’Alleva
Kenneth Doeg
Judy & Peter Halvorson
Patricia Hempel
George & Janet Jones
Carol & David Jordan
Lin & Waldo Klein
James Knox
June & Henry Krisch
Becky & Scott Lehmann
Shoshana Levinson & Chris Crossgrove
Julia J. & Carl W. Lindquist, MD
Joan & Austin McGuigan
Jane & Robert Moskowitz
Lauren & Eric Prause
Donald Shankweiler & Ruth Garrett Millikan
John & Nancy Silander
Beverly Sims & William Okeson
Kenneth & Janet Slavett
Marilyn & Arthur Wright
Boston Pops
Esplanade Orchestra
Keith Lockhart, conductor Sat, Dec 7, 8 pm
Co-Sponsors:
Friday, November 22, 2024, 8 pm
University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts Deanna Fitzgerald, Dean Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts
Rodney Rock, Director presents
BENNEWITZ QUARTET & ARSENTIY KHARITONOV
Co-Sponsor
National Institute for the Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine
Media Sponsors
https://shuppartists.com
PROGRAM
Franz Joseph. Haydn:
String Quartet in F major, op. 77 No. 2 (1732-1809)
Allegro moderato
Menuetto: Presto, ma non troppo
Andante
Finale: Vivace assai
Leoš Janáček
String Quartet No. 2 “Intimate Letters” (1854-1928)
Andante - Con moto- Allegro
Adagio – Vivace
Moderato - Andante – Adagio
Allegro - Andante - Adagio
— INTERMISSION —
Antonín Dvořák
Piano Quintet in A Major, Op. 81 (1841-1904)
Allegro, ma non tanto
Dumka: Andante con moto; Vivace
Scherzo (Furiant): Molto Vivace
Finale: Allegro
BENNEWITZ QUARTET
Jakub Fišer, violin
Ježek, violin
Jiří Pinkas, viola Štěpán Doležal, violoncello
Arsentiy Kharitonov, piano
The Bennewitz Quartet is one of the top international chamber ensembles, a status confirmed by both their victories in two prestigious competitions – Osaka in 2005 and Prémio Paolo Borciani, Italy in 2008 – and by the continuous critical acclaim given to them. As early as 2006, the German Frankfurter Allgemeine wrote: "... the music was remarkable not just for its clarity of structure, but for the beautiful tonal palette and purity of intonation in its execution. Only very rarely does one experience such skillfully crafted and powerful harmonies... Great art." The ensemble has also received various recognitions at home – including in 2004 the Prize of the Czech Chamber Music Society and in 2019 the Classic Prague Award for the Best Chamber Music Performance of the year.
The quartet regularly performs at major venues throughout Europe (including Wigmore Hall London, Musikverein Wien, Konzerthaus Berlin, Elbphilharmonie Hamburg, Théâtre des Champs-Elysées Paris, Concertgebouw Amsterdam, Seoul Art Center, Rudolfinum Prague), and is regularly invited to festivals such as the Salzburger Festspiele, Luzerne Festival, Rheingau Musik, Lockenhaus, and the Prague Spring. In North America the group has been invited - among others - to the Bohemian Hall, Frick Collection and Rockefeller Univ. in NYC, the National Gallery, DC, to Cleveland, Houston, Salt Lake City, Tucson, Costa Mesa, San Francisco, San Jose, Palo Alto, Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa.
Of special interest to the quartet is, of course, performing in the Czech domestic music scene, such as e.g. a cooperation with the Czech Philharmonic for a performance of Bohuslav Martinů’s Concerto for
String Quartet and Orchestra. The group has made a recording of both quartets by Leoš Janáček for Czech Television at Villa Tugendhat in Brno and Czech Radio regularly records major concerts of theirs.
The members of the Bennewitz put special emphasis on the inspiring and at times challenging choice of their concert repertoire. In 2012 and 2015, the ensemble performed in one evening all of Bartók’s six string quartets in Maggio Musicale Fiorentino and in Swedish Upsala. In 2014, the four presented a premiere of The Songs of Immigrants by Slavomír Hořínka in Konzerthaus Berlin. In 2019 the quartet added a new CD in its discography featuring the music of the persecuted Jewish composers H. Krása, V. Ullmann, E. Schulhoff and P. Haas on the Supraphon label.
In the 2023/24 season, the Bennewitz Quartet returned to a number of European venues (Stuttgart, Mannheim, Heidelberg, Linz, Bilbao), also made their debuts in Klagenfurt, Darmstadt and Duisburg. Besides having again toured in the United States and Canada, and continuing its various concert projects in the Czech Republic - including a collaboration on an integral performance of Dvořák's string quartets as part of the Dvořák Prague Festival - the ensemble also released its latest CD with string quartets by "those who used to play together" - Haydn, Mozart, Vaňhal and Dittersdorf.
The group has had the privilege of working with the outstanding artists: Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Alexander Melnikov, Vadim Gluzman, Isabel Charisius, Pietro de Maria, Reto Bieri, Danjulo Ishizaka and others.
Since 1998 the quartet has been bearing the name of the violinist and director of a Prague music conservatory, Antonín Bennewitz (1833-1926) who contributed greatly to the establishment of the Czech violin school. The most significant musicians of his disciples are above all Karel Hoffman, Josef Suk and Oskar Nedbal who, under Bennewitz’s influence, formed the famous Bohemian Quartet.
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Willington Pizza
Rte 32, Willington Center • 860.429.7433
Italian Cuisine served in a 200-year-old home with lovely antique decor. Seating for 200. National award-winning pizza featured on CBS This Morning and ABC Good Morning America. Desserts. Open Mon-Thurs 11am–11pm; Fri & Sat 11am–12am; Sun 11am–10pm. Casual attire. Entrées $6–$13. No reservations. (MC, V, D, AE) Best Pizza, Tolland County by Connecticut Magazine.
Willimantic Brewing Co.
Main Street Café
The Willimantic Brewing Co./Main Street Café is a living landmark restaurant & pub brewery located in Willimantic, in the heart of rural northeastern Connecticut. We offer an extensive menu from fun appetizers, daily specials, gluten free, vegetarian and so much more. Fresh craft beers brewed on site, ciders, cocktails, and guest beers we have something to please everyone. Visit us at www. willibrew.com for more information.
Coyote Flaco
50 Higgins Highway, Mansfield • 860.423.4414
We are a family owned and operated restaurant. We just celebrated our 20 year anniversary this past March and we look forward to serving you for more to come. We invite you to try our cuisine from our made from scratch tamales to our Churrasco. We have a full bar and are constantly creating new cocktails for you to try. We look forward to seeing you at our tables. For menu and reservation please visit our website www.coyoteflacomansfield.com
Hilltop
Come and visit Hilltop Restaurant, Bar & Banquet to experience a delicious meal, live entertainment, full bar with flat screen TVs, and more, stop in today. If you’re looking for a place to hold a party or event, call and talk to us about our banquet rooms, Make sure that you call ahead to find out what our Chef’s Specials are. They change daily. hilltopct.net
Beni’s American Bar and Grill
1280 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon Rockville 860.875.4443
Family and Locally Owned American bar & grill featuring fresh seafood, premium steaks, upscale pasta dishes, salads and sandwiches. Indoor, Outdoor, & Lounge Seating. Live Entertainment! Let Us Cater Your Next Event or Party. We have two banquet rooms available, accommodating 25 and 50 people each (or more!). Full and half trays are available for catering orders! Please allow us at least 24 hours of notice for large orders. Seasonal items, special requests, and some entrees require additional time. www.benisct.com
Dog Lane Cafe
One Dog Lane, Storrs • 860.429.4900
Northeastern Connecticut’s European/American cafe, offering something for everyone from early morning to late at night. Our menu and our daily specials emphasize seasonal, local and freshly-prepared food, all made to order. Offering a wide variety of sandwiches, grilled items and freshly tossed salads or help yourself to coffee at our self-service coffee bar. Offering indoor and outdoor seating. Whether you are in a hurry or want to take some time and relax with friends, our style of service lets you set your own pace. Serving beer & wine. doglanecafe.com
Fenton River Grill
135A Storrs Road, Mansfield• 860.786.7870
A dynamic and friendly bar and restaurant located near the University of Connecticut and Eastern Connecticut University offering an enticing selection of craft beer, carefully crafted cocktails and an approachable menu including lighter shareable plates, salads, flatbreads, sandwiches, and full dinners. Lively Bar, Cozy Atmosphere, Shareable Food, Outdoor Patio, Craft Cocktails.
The Tavern at Spring Hill Inn
957 Storrs Rd., Storrs • 860.477.1199
Welcome to The Tavern at Spring Hill Inn! Come with your family and friends, dine and stay at this beautiful historic inn and tavern. The menu includes many New England dishes like shrimp scampi, lobster and penne a la vodka, along with Tavern favorites such as burgers, and mac and cheese. Whether you’re dining on the terrace or enjoying the comfort from inside there’s something for everyone!
Monday-Friday 11am-10pm • Saturday and Sunday Open 8am-10pm Serving Breakfast Sat and Sun 8am-noon 39 Adamec Rd, Willington, CT Rte 32 Exit 69 off I-84. 860-477-1054
Enjoy a Fantastic Meal with Your Friend and Loved One
Steaks, Seafood, Pasta Dishes, Salads, Burgers, Wraps, Brick Oven Pizzas and more.
Open for dining indoor or on our beautiful patio Chefs Specials • Take Out Trays • Banquet Facilities up to 85 guests
Live Entertainment Fri and Sat Night Happy Hours: Sun-Thurs 3:30-6:00. Extended Lounge Hours
Serving
Thanksgiving Dinner Call for Reservations
Enjoy the Flavor of the Neighorhood
Enjoy our Specialty Omelets, our Creative Benedicts, Belgium Waffles, Breakfast Burritos. $6 Mimosas and more! Weekend Breakfast Sat & Sun 8am-noon
Local cuisine expertly prepared by people who appreciate good food and honest value as much as you do. We offer
Exceptional Seafood, Premium Steaks, Upscale Pasta Dishes, Daily Specials & Speciality Martinis, Wines and many Select Beers. Pizza available for Take-Out!
1280 Hartford Tpke, Vernon, CT • Exit 67 off I-84. 860-875-4443 • www.benisct.com
Open Monday-Saturday 11am-10:00pm Sunday 11:30am-9:30pm
American Bar and Grill Banquet Rooms for guests up to 50 or as allowed.