Recognized as one of the most celebrated violinists of her generation, Elissa Lee Koljonen has thrilled audiences and critics in more than one hundred cities throughout the world. She has received international acclaim and performed in some of the world’s most venerated concert venues. There’s no place like Kingston, though! “Every time I’ve been to KCMF has been one of the highlights of my summer,” she says. “Having the opportunity to spend time playing chamber music with great friends, for such a wonderful audience, is one of the great pleasures of making music!
This summer, Koljonen will perform with Curtis-on-Tour in Concert 2: A Collection of Songs. “We’re bringing a program based on vocal repertoire,” she says. “It will be a wonderful way to bring some familiar and not so familiar repertoire, presented in unexpected way.” Koljonen will join pianist Hanchien Lee for Rimsky-Korsakov’s Song of the Indian Guest from Sadko (arranged by Fritz Kreisler), Gluck’s Melodie from Orpheus and Eurydice (arranged by Fritz Kreisler), and Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess Fantasy (arranged by Igor Frolov).
Koljonen’s playing has been hailed by the Helsingin Sanomat (Helsinki) as “sparkling, sensual and personal,” and the Chicago Tribune has said she displays “boundless technique and musicianship.” Listen to episode 4 of the Kingston Notes podcast to hear more about Koljonen’s musical inspirations, why she appreciates art’s invitation to slow down, and more.
