St. Paul’s Church will host two remarkable concerts featuring violinist Christel Lee and pianist Robert Roozeman. On Friday, February 21, 2025, at 5:00 PM, the duo will perform a program showcasing works by Kreisler, Ysaÿe, Beethoven, Saint-Saëns, and Franck. On Sunday, February 23, 2025, at 5:00 PM, they return with a repertoire of Beethoven, Stravinsky, Dvořák, and Ravel. These evenings promise to be unforgettable journeys through the rich landscapes of violin and piano music.
Christel Lee, a Korean-American violinist, has dazzled audiences worldwide with her expressive artistry and technical finesse. Raised in Canada, she honed her craft at the Juilliard School and Kronberg Academy. Lee gained international acclaim after winning the prestigious 2015 Jean Sibelius Violin Competition, becoming the first American laureate in its history. Her career includes performances with major orchestras like the Helsinki Philharmonic and recitals across Europe, Asia, and North America. Known for her versatility, she brings equal brilliance to classical masterpieces and modern compositions. Robert Roozeman, a Dutch pianist celebrated for his nuanced playing, is a laureate of the ARD International Music Competition. His collaborations and solo performances are praised for their depth and elegance, making him an ideal partner for Lee. Together, they create an extraordinary synergy, delivering performances that captivate audiences.
Friday’s concert opens with Kreisler’s Recitativo and Scherzo, a piece that balances soulful introspection with dazzling virtuosity. Ysaÿe’s Sonata No. 5 follows, painting vivid imagery in its two movements: the serene L’Aurore and the lively, folk-inspired Danse rustique. Beethoven’s Violin Sonata No. 8 brings a playful charm and lyrical grace, full of sparkling energy and melodic beauty. We will then hear Saint-Saëns’ Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso a violinist’s showcase, blending fiery brilliance with lush Romantic melodies. Franck’s Violin Sonata, one of the most beloved works for violin and piano, ends the evening with its rapturous themes, intricate interplay, and unforgettable finale.
Sunday’s program begins with Beethoven’s Violin Sonata No. 6, a work of elegance and warmth, blending classical poise with Romantic expressiveness. Then Stravinsky’s Suite Italienne, a playful reimagining of his ballet Pulcinella, offers charm and wit in every movement, from the lilting Serenata to the spirited Tarantella and grand Finale. Opening the second half, Dvořák’s Sonata in F major provides a heartfelt exploration of Czech folk music influences, full of lyrical beauty and rhythmic vitality. The concert concludes with Ravel’s Tzigane, a fiery and virtuosic masterpiece inspired by Hungarian folk music, closes the evening with dazzling flair and a spellbinding gypsy spirit.
Tickets for the concerts at St. Paul’s are $300, $450, and $650 pesos donation each, and are on sale through our website, and at the concert 45 minutes before performance time. Details of all Pro Musica’s concerts and Patron Membership are on our website, www.promusicasma.org, or contact us at promusicasma@gmail.com.
See you at the concert.
Michael Pearl
President, Pro Musica.
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