Pick your musical poison this September at the 15th annual Jerusalem International Chamber Music Festival, under the artistic direction of Elena Bashkirova. From traditional Russian music to Austria’s Schubert to France’s Debussy, Israeli and international musicians and ensembles are sure to transport you to different musical cultures and times.
For the repressed babushka in you, the festival’s Russian musical program might be just the thing. Traditional Russian composers include Tchaikovsky and Mikhail Glinka, widely hailed as the father of Russian classical music. The festival also features works by twentieth century composers Stravinsky, Prokofiev, and Shostakovich. Also in the festival’s program is a tribute to Russian vocal music, with Israeli singer Hila Baggio as well as Russian soprano Anna Samuil and opera singer Alexander Vinogradov.
But not to worry – the festival does not neglect Western European musical tradition. Alongside the Russian pieces, Franz Schubert’s corpus will be taking center stage. Sixteen performances featuring his compositions are planned, including his well-loved lieder (songs). Finally, the festival will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birthday of Claude Debussy with six pieces from the range of the French composer. Returning acts include the Jerusalem Quartet and the Erlenbusch Quartet.
The 15th annual Jerusalem International Chamber Music Festival (www.jcmf.org.il) will take place September 1-15 at the Jerusalem International YMCA Concert Hall, 26 King David Street, Jerusalem. Tickets are 150 shekels per performance. For reservations call 02-6250444. The complete program in English is available here (http://www.jcmf.org.il/en/program.asp)
