Capital Region Classical presents a concert with legendary pianist Mitsuko Uchida Sunday, April 6, at 3 p.m. in Memorial Chapel. She will perform works by Beethoven (E-minor Sonata, Op. 90), Schoenberg (3 Klavierstücke, Op. 11), Kurtág (Márta ligatúrája) and Schubert (B-flat major Sonata, D. 960).
The concert is dedicated to the memory of series founder and prominent area pathologist Dan Berkenblit, who passed away Jan. 30 after a long illness.
A lifelong devoted music lover, Berkenblit moved from his native Brooklyn to the Capital Region in the late 1960s and shortly afterward formed a prominent series of chamber music concerts at Union that would eventually become Capital Region Classical. In 2008, he was the recipient of Union’s Founders Medal, which honors a person who has made a distinctive contribution to the welfare of the College.
“With his discerning taste, and working tirelessly as a volunteer for the series, Dan brought incredible artists to Schenectady over the course of 40 years,” said Derek Delaney, CRC’s artistic director. “His profound impact on thousands of people's lives throughout the region cannot be overstated.”
A series regular and one of its most popular artists, Uchida is among the world’s foremost pianists, renowned for her interpretations of Mozart and Schubert.
“Her poetry at the keyboard is the stuff of legend,” Delaney said. “We’re honored that one of the great pianists of the last century has chosen to grace our stage so often. She returns to perform a celebrated work in her illustrious recorded œuvre – Schubert’s monumental final sonata.”
Uchida has conducted and appeared with many major orchestras, recorded a wide repertory with several labels, and garnered numerous awards and honors. She is co-artistic director, with Jonathan Biss, of the prestigious Marlboro Music School and Festival in Vermont.
All Union students and faculty may attend the concert for free. To secure tickets in advance, use the code UNIONFREE at checkout. Tickets will also be available at the door the day of the performance.