Kitchener, Ontario (October 25, 2023) – In a generous philanthropic gesture to support the Musicians of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony, world-renowned pianist Emanuel Ax has offered to perform a rare benefit concert on November 1, 2023.
This not-to-be missed concert will be held at First United Church, 16 William St W, Waterloo, Ontario, at 7:30 pm. This extraordinary evening promises to be a musical celebration that will captivate and inspire attendees, while supporting the vital work of the Musicians of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony. Tickets are available at http://bit.ly/emanuelkwspa.
Emanuel Ax, hailed as one of the greatest pianists of our time, will take the stage to share his remarkable talents and profound artistry. With a career spanning over four decades, Ax has received numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and international recognition for his exceptional interpretations of classical masterpieces.
Proceeds from the concert will directly support the Musicians of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony and will be used to further the welfare of the musicians as they explore all options for rebuilding a new organization which can continue to enrich our community through music.
The concert will feature Beethoven’s Sonata no.8, op.13, (The Pathétique), Schumann’s Piano Quintet in E-flat major, op.44 and Mozart’s Piano Concerto no.17 in G major, K 453. Mr. Ax will be joined by the Musicians of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony, Andrei Feher, members of the Penderecki String Quartet, and host Tom Allen. This collaboration promises to deliver an unforgettable evening of music.
“We are honoured that a musician of Emanuel Ax’s international stature has come forward to help support fellow musicians during this extremely challenging time,” said Bénédicte Lauzière, Concertmaster. “This generous philanthropic gesture speaks to the strong support from many to nurture the beauty of live music for audiences to experience for generations to come.”
Last month, the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony declared bankruptcy, suddenly leaving its musicians and staff unexpectedly without employment, and the community of Kitchener-Waterloo without a symphony for the first time in almost eight decades.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness the music and artistry of Emanuel Ax in this intimate setting, while supporting the Musicians of the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony.
About the Musicians of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony
Following the sudden bankruptcy announcement of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony, the Musicians of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony immediately self-organized and began a successful GoFundMe campaign that has received overwhelming local, national, and international attention. With this groundswell of support, they are now energized and focused on their mission to continue enriching the cultural life of Waterloo Region.
Donations: www.savethekws.ca