Family Concert
the Carnival of the Animals
Saturday, May 17, 2025 · 5:00 p m
Bruno Walter Auditorium, Lincoln Center
ILLUSTRATED BY MARILYN KING
NYAG FAMILY CONCERT
Antonio Vivaldi (1678–1741)
“Spring” from The Four Seasons: Allegro, Largo, Allegro
Performed by a chamber ensemble: Kae Nakano, Wentao Ouyang (1st Violin) Hoshino Toshiaki, Amy Huh (2nd Violin) Jaewon Chung, Ruby Chen (Viola) Davin Lee, Yoon Jung Lee (Cello) Chang Ting Yeh (Double Bass)
Antonio Vivaldi was an Italian Baroque composer and violinist, best known for his vivid and imaginative concertos. The Four Seasons, composed around 1723, is one of his most famous works—a set of four violin concertos inspired by the seasons of the year. “Spring” is the first in the set and one of the earliest examples of program music—music that tells a story or paints a scene. Vivaldi included short poems to describe each season, and in “Spring,” listeners can hear birds singing, brooks flowing, gentle breezes, and even a dramatic thunderstorm. The music’s joyful energy and descriptive effects continue to captivate audiences of all ages.
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)
Für Elise, WoO 59
Solo piano: Kayoung An
Beethoven, a German composer and pianist, is one of the most influential figures in Western music. Although he composed large symphonies and concertos, many of his short piano pieces, such as Für Elise, have become universally beloved. Für Elise was not published during Beethoven’s lifetime and may have been written for a student or admirer. The piece opens with a simple, lyrical melody that has become instantly recognizable. It features contrasts between the gentle main theme and more dramatic middle sections, showcasing Beethoven’s ability to blend emotion with structure in even a short work.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791)
Rondo “Turkish March” from Piano Sonata No. 11 in A Major, K. 331
Solo piano: Kayoung An Mozart was one of the most gifted composers in history, writing over 600 works during his short life. His Piano Sonata No. 11 is best known for its lively final movement, often called the “Turkish March” or Alla Turca. This movement was inspired by the music of the Ottoman military bands, which were popular in Europe during the 18th century. The piece imitates the rhythmic drive and distinctive sounds of these bands, using fast repeated notes, strong accents, and sparkling runs. Its cheerful character and virtuosic style have made it one of Mozart’s most recognizable piano works.
Camille Saint-Saëns (1835–1921)
The Carnival of the Animals
For chamber orchestra and two pianos: Kayoung An, Eunice Park (Piano) and NYAG Students Ensemble
Camille Saint-Saëns was a French composer, pianist, and organist known for his wit, elegance, and mastery of orchestration. Though he composed symphonies, concertos, and operas, The Carnival of the Animals remains one of his most beloved and imaginative works. Written in 1886 as a private musical joke, the suite includes 14 short movements, each humorously portraying a different animal or scene. It’s full of playful character, musical surprises, and clever instrumental effects. Here's a glimpse into the musical zoo:
1. Introduction and Royal March of the Lion – Bold and majestic, announcing the king of the jungle.
2. Hens and Roosters – Pecking rhythms and energetic clucks.
3. Wild Donkeys – Lightning-fast piano runs depict a wild chase.
4. Tortoises – A slow-motion version of the “Can-Can” that will make you smile.
5. The Elephant – A deep, lumbering melody played by the double bass.
6. Kangaroos – Bouncy, skipping phrases as they hop along.
7. Aquarium – Shimmering textures create an underwater world.
8. Characters with Long Ears – Two violins mimic the sound of braying donkeys.
9. The Cuckoo in the Depths of the Woods – A quiet forest echo, with a clarinet calling from afar.
10. Aviary – Light, fluttering notes suggest birds in constant flight.
11. Pianists – A humorous jab at students practicing scales.
12. Fossils – Xylophone bones and snippets of old melodies.
13. The Swan – A lyrical cello solo that floats with elegance.
14. Finale – A grand parade bringing all the animals together.
Jesse Hartley is a New York-based actor with experience in regional and immersive theatre. His credits include Mark Antony in Julius Caesar (Stratford Festival Kings Company), Helena in All’s Well That Ends Well (Chesapeake Shakespeare Company), and ensemble roles in Sweeney Todd, Faceless, and The Hour We Knew Nothing of Each Other . A graduate of Circle in the Square Theatre School (2024), Jesse also studied Theatre Studies and PreLaw at James Madison University. He has trained with Mark Nelson, Benita de Wit, Billy Bustamante, and others in acting, voice, and movement.
Guest Artists
Taiwan-born conductor Wen-Wen Chou has led a vibrant international career spanning Taiwan, the U.S., and Europe. She has conducted the Shen Yun Performing Arts Orchestra in worldrenowned venues including Lincoln Center, Kennedy Center, and Royal Opera House. In Taiwan, she served as Assistant Conductor of the Taipei Symphony Orchestra and held key roles with several major wind and youth ensembles. As founder and resident conductor of the Taiwan Wind Ensemble, she led innovative concerts and international tours, including performances at the WASBE Conference. Ms. Chou also founded the Taiwan Youth Band, acclaimed as central Taiwan’s top youth ensemble. A faculty member at Fei Tian College and Northern Academy of the Arts, she continues to shape young musicians. She holds degrees in music and conducting from National Taiwan Normal University, studying under leading Taiwanese and international mentors, including Maestro Vladimir Vais.
Described as “passionate,” “expressive,” “bold,” and “sensitive,” pianist Kayoung An impressed critics with her performance alongside the Bayerische Kammerphilharmonie. Korea Music Review praised her playing as “elegant, with fire.” A multi award-winning soloist and chamber musician, An has performed at major venues including Carnegie Hall, SummerStage, the Seoul Arts Center, and Chicago Cultural Center, and has been featured on WFMT Chicago, KBS Classic FM/TV, WBFY, and YourTV Ontario. She toured Korea with the Bayerische Kammerphilharmonie and has performed with leading orchestras such as the Seoul Philharmonic and Bar Harbor Festival String Orchestra, working with conductors like Gábor Hontvári and Lawrence Golan. A frequent guest artist, her appearances include the Bar Harbor Music Festival and Dame Myra Hess Concerts. Her latest album, Kayoung An and Friends Play Bernard Hoffer, was recorded with David Gilbert and released by Albany Records. A
passionate educator, Dr. An’s students have won top international prizes. She has taught master classes and judged competitions globally, and serves on the pre-college faculty at the Manhattan School of Music.
Tokyo-born violinist Kae Nakano studied at the Toho Gakuen School of Music and later earned honors at the Manhattan School of Music, where she received the President’s Award and several artistic prizes. She has performed at major festivals including the Argerich’s Meeting Point in Beppu, the Pacific Music Festival, and Seiji Ozawa’s Ongaku-Juku, collaborating with renowned artists such as Martha Argerich, Vadim Repin, and members of the Vienna Philharmonic. Ms. Nakano won 3rd prize at the Romania International Music Competition and has performed for the Romanian Embassies. She was a winner of the Lilian Fuchs Chamber Music Competition and studied with esteemed mentors including Koichiro Harada, Patinka Kopec, and members of the Takács Quartet. Her chamber work includes collaborations with Wolfram Koessel and participation in the CMS master class with Anthony McGill. She has served as concertmaster in multiple orchestras and a section violinist of he Albany Symphony.
Violist Jaewon Chung has established herself as both an enthusiastic performer and a devoted pedagogue in the New York/New Jersey area. She has featured on prestigious stages such as Avery Fisher Hall, Bruno Walter Auditorium at Lincoln Center, Stern Auditorium at Carnegie Hall and other halls throughout the United States, Russia and her native Korea. She has performed as a principal violist for orchestras such as the Classical Note Philharmonic, Underwood Chamber Orchestra and New York Symphony Orchestra. As a member of Classically Connected, Ms. Chung has dedicated herself not only to solo performance but also to chamber music, touring extensively throughout Korea and appearing on national television to promote classical repertoire in rural areas with limited access to the arts. She holds a Master of Music degree and a Professional Studies Diploma from the Mannes College of Music at The New School, where she studied with Daniel Panner. She earned her Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University under the tutelage of Choong-Jin Chang, principal violist of the Philadelphia Orchestra.
A passionate cellist Yoon Jung Lee received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Ewha Womans University under Professor Il-Hwan Bae and completed Graduate Performance Diploma at the Boston Conservatory under the guidance of ProfessorRhonda Rider. During her time with the Asian Youth Orchestra, she had the opportunity to collaborate with musicians from various
countries, which greatly enriched her musical experience and perspective. In addition to her solo and ensemble performances, she is deeply committed to chamber music and places great value on musical collaboration. Yoon Jung Lee is also actively involved in teaching, dedicating herself to mentoring young musicians and helping them grow both technically and artistically. Her performances reflect her deep musicality, refined technique, and sincere passion for music.
NYAG Artists
Dr. Amy Dahm Huh is a versatile performer, recognized for her work as a soloist, chamber musician, and collaborator with living composers. She has appeared at major venues including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Spain Zaragoza Auditorium, Tokyo Metropolitan Arts Space, Shanghai Oriental Arts Center, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Seoul Arts Center, and the United Nations. As a member of the Starry Duo violin–viola ensemble, she has released two albums worldwide. Dr. Huh has presented lectures and masterclasses at institutions across the United States, including the University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University, University of Central Florida, University of South Florida, Florida College, St. Olaf College, Central Washington University, and the University of Kansas. In Korea, she has been invited as a guest lecturer at Hongik University, Konkuk University, Anyang University, Hannam University, and Kookmin University, speaking on topics such as "How Music Connects Us Across Cultures" and "The Role of the Artist in Society and the Entrepreneurial Mindset." She is an adjunct professor at Wagner College and the music director of the New York Artists Guild.
Korean-born cellist Davin Lee has built a distinguished career marked by her deep commitment to both solo and ensemble performance. She has appeared as a soloist with esteemed orchestras such as the North Czech Philharmonic in Prague and toured with the KBS Philharmonic in Korea. Her recital appearances include acclaimed venues and series like the Kumho Young Artist Series and the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage in Washington, D.C. An avid chamber musician, Ms. Lee has collaborated with celebrated artists including Joshua Bell, Yeol Eum Son, Alexander Kerr, and Hyukjoo Kwon. She shared her artistry as a faculty at Chamber Music Festival of Saugatuck. Her artistry is also reflected in recordings such as The Jewish Soul by Amit Peled and Attraction by Hyosun Kang. Ms. Lee has served as Principal Cellist of the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra and performed as a substitute musician with notable ensembles such as the National Symphony Orchestra, Washington National Opera, and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. She received her
early training at the Korean National University of Arts under Myung-Wha Chung, earned her Master’s degree from the Peabody Conservatory studying with Amit Peled, and completed an Artist Diploma at Indiana University under the mentorship of Eric Kim.
Dr. Yoo-Ran Eunice Park is a South Korean-born pianist who made her orchestral debut at age 11 with the Seoul Philharmonic after unanimously winning its concerto competition. She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University and a Doctor of Music degree from Indiana University Bloomington, where she studied with renowned pianists including Yong Hi Moon and André Watts. Dr. Park has performed internationally at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and concert halls throughout Europe. Her orchestral engagements include appearances with the New York Symphony Orchestra, Lansing Symphony Orchestra, Indiana University Student Orchestra and Amadeo Philharmonic. She is a prizewinner in numerous competitions, including MTNA and the New York International Music Concours. Her performance and interview on Schubert’s piano sonatas were featured on NPR affiliate WJFF. A dedicated educator and adjudicator, Dr. Park has taught at Indiana University and mentored students to top prizes in major national competitions. In 2023, she founded the New York Artists Guild, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting emerging talent and promoting local musicians in the New York–New Jersey region. She recently collaborated with Lawrence Dutton of the Emerson String Quartet in a featured performance at Lincoln Center.
NYAG Students Ensemble
Wagner College, a nationally recognized liberal arts institution in New York City, presents its String Ensemble as part of today’s program. The visual art for Carnival of the Animals was created by film major Gaisha Gourdet.
Elizabeth Albrecht Viola Wagner College
Ruby Chen Viola
Symphony Alex Cole Violin Wagner College William Donofrio Trumpet Gaisha Gourdet Violin Wagner College
Wagner College
Amanda Lau Violin
Wagner College
Wentao Ouyang Violin
Angela LoBello Saxophone
Wagner College
Jordan Tai Double Bass
Hoshino Toshiaki Catherine Wu
Percussion
Northern Academy
NYAG Young Artists
Chang Ting Yeh
Double Bass
Ryan Zamora Saxophone Wagner College
Harrison Hajoon Bagdonas (Age 6), Alessandra Centurion (Age 12), Kari Cho (Age 7), Aaron Choe (Age 7), Audrey Choi (Age 7), Christopher Seojin Ha (Age 7), Ethan Yun Hur (Age 11), Noah Jiang (Age 7), Lauren Kwon (Age 7), Amelia Son (Age 6), Alexa Son (Age 10), John Sul (Age 5)
Soim Kwon is an experienced art and design educator with a strong background in both industry and teaching. She holds degrees from Hongik University and the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), gaining a global perspective on art and fashion. Her design career began at Joe Fresh (Tevrow & Chase), where she collaborated with major brands like Donna Karan, Banana Republic, Kate Spade, Ann Taylor, and Nautica, refining her aesthetic and understanding of diverse brand languages. Alongside her professional work, Soim has dedicated many years to teaching children and young students. Her holistic teaching philosophy emphasizes nurturing each child’s unique artistic voice while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression. She encourages students to closely observe the world around them and translate their perspectives into art.