Violinist Joanna Kurkowicz will perform at the Covey Center for the Arts on Thursday, Oct. 22. The performance is part of the Utah Valley Symphony's "Portraits of America" program, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The concert is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. and will feature music by George Gershwin, John Corigliano, and Aaron Copland. Kurkowicz will perform Corigliano's "The Red Violin," a concerto based on the music from the 1998 film of the same name. The program includes Copland's "Lincoln Portrait," which will be narrated by former Utah Governor Gary Herbert, and Gershwin's "An American in Paris."
Dr. Cheung Chau, the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Utah Valley Symphony, will conduct the program. Kurkowicz noted that the selection of music celebrates America's anniversary through a mix of staples and living composers.
The performance marks Kurkowicz's first visit to Utah. Her musical journey began in Poland during the communist era, where she was identified through a rigorous system of training and exams. Although she studied both piano and violin, she ultimately chose the violin as her professional path.
Her recording of works by Polish composer Grażyna Bacewicz was named one of Amazon.com's Best Classical Albums of the Year in 2009. Her performances have received praise from publications such as The Strad, The Boston Globe, and Gramophone.
Kurkowicz has collaborated with various contemporary composers who have written works specifically for her, including Robert Groslot, Shirish Korde, and Davic Kechley. Her career has involved performing music influenced by jazz, Cuban, and Indian traditions, as well as works designed specifically for her to play.
The "Portraits of America" performance will take place at the Covey Center for the Arts on Oct. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
