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chrisTina Bouey - Albany Symphony Concertmaster, violin
Paula OakeS - Violin and Piano
Sharon Bielik - principal Viola
Grace Ho - principal Cello
Daniel Ketter - principal Clarinet
The concert
Join us for the first chamber companion series performance of the 2026/27 season! Works on this program directly relate to Albany Symphony’s opening night concert Rome, Romance, and Rising Stars on October 3rd.
The Program
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During the Albany Symphony’s opening concert on October 3, concertgoers will hear the widely known Overture to William Tell. While most know the work for its association with The Lone Ranger, not everyone is familiar with its exquisitely beautiful and lyrical opening—solo cellos and accompanying double basses that evoke a serene, pastoral scene representing “the calm before the storm.” Because the cello section literally opens our 2026/2027 season, we thought it would be fitting to feature the “tenor of the string family” during our inaugural chamber concert with this stunning solo piece for cello and piano by Rossini—Una Larme. Una Larme translates to “a tear,” and portrays a character not often associated with Rossini—melancholy and introspection. Rossini wrote these variations as an homage to a deceased friend, and they belong to a collection of witty, intimate salon pieces titled Peches de Vieillesse ("Sins of Old Age"). Originally written for solo bass, Una Larme later found its natural voice when transcribed for the cello.
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Also on our opening concert is a world premiere by Celka Ojakangas entitled “Shuffle”. Celka, winner of numerous awards, is a rising star in the world of new music. Her compositions are inventive and witty, revealing her eclectic background across many musical genres, including classical, jazz, and rock. Toons 2024 is a fun, whimsical nod to the Looney Tunes Cartoons from her childhood, a recollection relatable to almost everyone.
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Coleridge-Taylor’s Clarinet Quintet in F-sharp minor was written in 1895. Coleridge-Taylor composed this work as a challenge posed by his composition teacher, who exclaimed after a performance of the said Brahms that no person could produce such a work without the looming influence of the great German master. Instead, one hears the unmistakable influence of Antonin Dvorak, specifically the rhythmic motives of his New World Symphony. It is a misfortune that Coleridge-Taylor’s brilliant Clarinet Quintet has been so sorely neglected. As well-written and engaging as any, many regard the work as on par with the infamous Brahms and Mozart Clarinet Quintets. We seek to correct this injustice when Albany Symphony musicians perform this overlooked, but sublime work during our inaugural chamber Companion Concert in October
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The great Belgian violinist and composer Henri Vieuxtemps composed this virtuosic showpiece for violin and piano to feature during his American recitals. He takes the simple Revolutionary War-era tune and applies every technical element in a violinist’s toolkit in a creative, amusing way, sure to elicit smiles and laughter from any audience.
Program and performers subject to change
about the opalka gallery
The Opalka Gallery is the formal exhibition facility of Russell Sage College. The Opalka’s primary focus is on modern and contemporary art and design from nationally recognized artists. An important part of the cultural life in the Capital Region, the Gallery frequently hosts lectures, films, concerts, and other events in conjunction with its exhibitions.
The Opalka Gallery was constructed in 2002 with funds generously donated by the Opalka family. The 7,400 square foot facility includes a vaulted gallery and a 75-seat lecture/presentation hall (our largest lecture space on campus).
DIRECTIONS & PARKING INFORMATION
Directions: Click here for directions
Parking: Parking is available outside of the Opalka Gallery
