Svetlana Smolina in Tour de Force “Favorite Encores Program
With electrifying bravura that evoked the artistry of Earl Wild and Vladimir Horowitz in their transcriptions, Svetlana Smolina’s tour de force performance was thrilling and phenomenal in an entire program of her “Favorite Encores” in Foxburg’s Lincoln Hall on Sunday, November 24.
A gorgeous woman, at home in her elegance and with captivating stage presence, she provided friendly and charming audience commentary with delightful stories about the composers, which included Liszt, Chopin, Pletnev’s Nutcracker Concert Suite, Blue Danube Concert Arabesques, Carmen Variations, Gershwin, John Williams, and more.
Svetlana was greeted with wildly enthusiastic cheers and “Bravas!” throughout – and standing ovations after BOTH the first AND second halves of the concert.
With her touch, the Lincoln Hall Steinway had a warm richness and powerful, resonant bass and silvery treble as never before – thanks to Amy Marshall’s loving care over the years and recent work by ARCA’s new piano technician, Shane Emrich.
Here a Facebook reel with concert photos to Svetlana Smolina’s recording of the Trepak movement from the Tchaikovsky/Pletnev’s Concert Suite from the Ballet “Nutcracker”.
Her ravishing performance received a second standing ovation at the end of the concert – and had the audience pleading for her return – which you will not want to miss.
After the concert, as warm and gracious as she is beautiful, Svetlana engaged with audience members, ARCA donors and piano-philes who lingered to meet her, have pictures taken and get autographs.
Including young, inspired piano students in the audience waited to greet her and have photos taken after the concert… memories made, following a performance they’ll never forget. Thanks to Courtney Heuer for bringing her young students from her Piano Studio and for spreading the word about the opportunity to experience world class artists up close and personal in the intimacy of ARCA’s charming historic venue – right here in Foxburg.
And enjoyed conversations with audience and ARCA members as well as ARCA Board members.
Thanks to the generosity of all of ARCA’s members and donors whose contributions make it possible for ARCA to bring world class artists to Foxburg – and special thanks to Dr. Charles and Susan Sutherland, who sponsored Svetlana’s concert.
