ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Edgar Geovani Venegas Flores, viola
Edgar Geovani Venegas Flores is a Mexican violist originally from Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato. He began his musical studies in 2014 and has been dedicated to the development of his artistic and orchestral career ever since. He has studied viola with renowned teachers such as Alexander Bruck, Astrid Jerez, Matthew Schubring, Roberto Campos, and Gwendolyn Matías Ryan, and has participated in masterclasses with great violists such as: Kathryn Steely, Raúl Munguía, Sandra Arango, Sheila Browne, Jaime Amador and Roberto Díaz.
From 2015 to 2023, he pursued his undergraduate studies in viola performance at the Escuela Superior de Música (INBAL), where he earned his degree. During this time, he performed regularly in prestigious venues such as the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Sala Nezahualcóyotl, and Auditory Blas Galindo, and participated in chamber music groups and symphonic orchestras, sharing the stage with international artists including Gustavo Dudamel, Yo-Yo Ma, Anna Göckel, Daniela Liebman, among others.
From 2020 to 2024, he was a member of the Orquesta Juvenil Universitaria Eduardo Mata (OJUEM) of UNAM, considered one of the most prominent youth orchestras in Mexico, where he also held the position of principal viola on several occasions.
Currently, Edgar is pursuing a master’s degree in performance at West Chester University in Pennsylvania, under the guidance of Adriana Linares, continuing to refine his technical and artistic vision with an international perspective.
Jean Kiklikian, piano
Jean Kiklikian Herrera, a Venezuelan pianist, has won numerous competitions in both Venezuela and the United States. Among his accolades are the National Piano Competition Sylvia Eisenstein, the WCU Concerto Competition, the Kutztown Summer Chamber Music Festival Concerto Competition, and the Pennsylvania State MTNA competition.
He has performed in numerous countries across South and North America, as well as in Europe, including Venezuela, the Dominican Republic, Chile, the Czech Republic, Mexico, Ecuador, and the United States, and others.
He has appeared in such prestigious venues as the Teresa Carreño Theater with the Caracas Philharmonic, Carnegie Hall, and others. Additionally, Jean has been a part of various music festivals held in Mexico, Ecuador, Venezuela, and the United States.
Currently Jean Kiklikian Herrera is pursuing a master’s degree at West Chester University of Pennsylvania studying under Professor Dr. Igor Resnianski.
Before joining West Chester University, he earned his bachelor’s degree in music performance from Dr. Maria Asteriadou at Kutztown University.
PROGRAM NOTES
Suite3forviolasoloBWV1009;J.S.Bach(1685-1750)
J. S. Bach stands as one of the most influential composers of the Baroque era, renowned for his mastery of counterpoint, harmonic depth, and expressive clarity, Originally written for solo cello, the Suite 3 in C major, BWV 1009 is part of a celebrated set of six suites that explore the expressive and technical possibilities of a single instrument. The Prelude unfolds with radiant energy and continuous motion, establishing a sense of grandeur through arpeggiated textures and harmonic progression. The Bourrées offer a lively contrast, pairing rustic dance character with elegant phrasing and rhythmic vitality. The Gigue Concludes the suite with spirited momentum, its buoyant rhythms and intricate patterns bringing the work to an exhilarating close.
Quartetforone;GarthKnox (b. 1956)
Garth Knox is at the forefront of the new music scene in many fields. Drawing on his vast experience as viola player of the Arditti Quartet and the Ensemble intercontemporain and his close collaboration with most of the leading composers of today.
“During the lockdown period in spring 2020, where playing music in ensembles was not possible, many musicians began to explore other ways of making music socially. Just as lonely children invent imaginary play-friends to keep themselves company.
The result is this piece Quartet for one, the opening is played on only one string, followed by a duo on two strings, a trio on three strings and the piece is concluded by a virtuoso finale led by the first violin with the participation of all four strings”.
Garth Knox, June 2020.
Tequiero,dijiste;MaríaGrever(1885-1951)
María Grever was one of the most internationally recognized Mexican composers, known for her contributions to popular song and bolero. Her music blends lyrical elegance with heartfelt expression, often drawing on themes of love and nostalgia. Te quiero, dijiste also known as ‘Muñequita linda’ is among her most beloved songs, admired for its tender melody and intimate character.
ViolaConcerto,Op.posth.(ed.Serly);BélaBartók(1881-1945)
Bartók was one of the most influential composers of the 20th century, known for blending folk traditions with a highly personal and modern musical language. His viola concerto, composed in 1945, was left unfinished at the time of his dead and later completed by his student Tibor Serly. The concerto stands as one of the most important works in viola repertoire, combining introspection, virtuosity, and a deep sense of lyricism.
The piece is conceived in 3 unstopped movements, Moderato which presents a reflective character, interweaving folkinspired motives and rich harmonic language; the Adagio religioso offers a deeply introspective and meditative atmosphere and the Allegro vivace brings rhythmic vitality and energetic drive, drawing on dance-like elements and virtuosic brilliance to bring the concerto to a powerful and compelling conclusion.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the faculty, coaches, professors, and administration of West Chester University for their guidance, patience, and support throughout my time here. From the very first day, I have felt truly welcomed, and I could not be happier with how much I have grown, the people I have met, and the experiences and lessons I have gained during my time at the Wells School of Music.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my family, both in Mexico City and in Dolores Hidalgo, for their unconditional support, trust, and belief in me. Their love and encouragement have been a constant source of strength, and their sacrifices have made it possible for me to be here today.
This moment represents more than just earning a degree, it is a testament to how hard work, perseverance, and discipline can make dreams come true. A special thank you to my professor, Adriana Linares, whose encouragement and trust have been a constant source of inspiration, and for giving me the opportunity to represent my country through music. Your belief in me has made this journey truly meaningful.