Killington Music Festival opens 35 season with return of Simon Ghriachy

Saturday, July 1, 7 p.m.—KILLINGTON—Now in its 35th season of presenting fine chamber music, the Killington Music Festival (KMF) announces  its Music in the Mountains Classical Concert Series schedule for 2017. On Saturday evenings from July 1-29, the internationally acclaimed musicians will perform at Rams Head Lodge at Killington Resort at 7 p.m., with the last concert at Killington Peak Lodge. During the series, faculty will also mentor the young aspiring musicians from around the country and abroad.

On July 1, join the season opening concert, “2 Hands, 88 Keys.” Following Simon Ghraichy’s Killington Music Festival debut last season to critical acclaim, he will once again open the season to set the tone with his impressive array of piano skills performing well-known works that are sure to leave the audience wanting more.

July 8, the KMF faculty come together to perform “Delightful Melodies,” masterworks with delightful melodies that will linger in audience’s hearts well after the performance ends. Brahms’ sextet and Schumann’s piano quintet will be featured.

July 15 will bring “Mendelssohn and Friends,” a performance providing tribute to the essence of the KMF from performing great works and sharing musical knowledge among musical friends that include the performers, the residency participants and the community. Highlights include Ibert’s trio for winds and strings, Mahler’s captivating string quartet and the magnificent octet by Mendelssohn.

July 22, look forward to “A Midsummer Night’s Music.” This evening highlights great masterworks amidst the summertime in the Green Mountains. Considered one of the most beloved chamber music works of all time, Schubert’s sublime string quintet and the themes nestled within the score, along with Schumann’s piano quartet, will be etched into listeners’ hearts.

The finale concert, festival favorite “A Green Mountain Grand Finale” aims to impress with quartets by Haydn, Puccini and Dvorak’s “American.”

Ticket Prices are $25; season finale is $30. Call 802-422-1375 through the day prior to each performance; or purchase the day of beginning at 6 p.m. at Ramshead Lodge. For more information, visit killingtonmusicfestival.org.

 Photo courtesy of KMF

SIMON GHRAICHY