Independent Arts News Reporting Zoellner Arts Center Presents Sphinx Virtuosi in 'Generations' Concert
Pictured Above: Sphinx Virtuosi. Photo Credit: Scott Jackson.
NEWSROOM POST: BETHLEHEM, PENNSYLVANIA
Bethlehem, PA – Zoellner Arts Center presents the 18-member Black and Latinx string ensemble Sphinx Virtuosi in “Generations” on Friday, September 29 at 7:30pm. This engagement of Sphinx Virtuosi is made possible through the ArtsCONNECT program of Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation with support from the National Endowment for the Arts. Leading up to the performance on September 29, the group will take part in a residency with El Sistema and the Allentown Symphony Orchestra, as well as Zoom sessions with Lehigh University students.
Inspired by the poetry of Langston Hughes and Julia Alvarez, Sphinx Virtuosi showcases the beauty and tradition of excellence inherent in classical music created and performed by Black and Latinx composers for many generations. The ensemble seeks to uplift spirits by sharing the sounds that inspire people and transcend the boundaries of time, history and struggle. These alumni of Detroit’s Sphinx Competition, an annual contest focused on increasing representation of Black and Latinx string players in classical music, are the flagship performance entity serving as cultural and diversity ambassadors throughout the country.
Since 2004, the Sphinx Virtuosi has garnered effusive accolades including from The New York Times that has described the group as “…top-notch…more essential at this moment than ever…a vibrant, assured performance…”; and The Washington Post wrote “true to their name, the Sphinx Virtuosi call up the vision of an iconic mythological feline with its immeasurable power, unwavering command, and soulful beauty.” Their debut album, Songs for Our Times, was released on Deutsche Grammophon in July 2023 and represents the rich history of the Sphinx Organization and the vibrant future of classical music by centering the artistry of extraordinary composers and artistic visionaries of color.
Tickets for the September 29 performance are $35 (orchestra/front grand tier) and $25 (back grand tier). Lehigh University Undergraduat
