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Join us for a deeply engaging evening of chamber music as Classical Sundays at Meyhouse Jazz presents pianist Gretchen Hull and cellist Vicky Wang in a thoughtfully curated program that bridges classical masterworks, modern compositions, and global musical influences.This performance explores the expressive breadth of the piano and cello duo, beginning with the introspective lyricism of Beethoven’s Sonata No. 31 in A-flat Major, one of the composer’s late, deeply personal works. From there, the program moves through the poetic intensity of Chopin, the virtuosic Romanticism of David Popper, and the soaring vocal line of Rachmaninoff’s Vocalise, revealing the cello’s remarkable capacity for song.
The first half concludes with the rhythmic drive and jazz-inflected language of Nikolai Kapustin, whose music blends classical structure with modern harmonic energy.
After intermission, the program opens outward into contemporary and cross-cultural sound worlds. Works by Reena Esmail and Ching-Ju Shih reflect a modern, globally informed musical voice, while the delicate introspection of Federico Mompou and the folkloric vitality of Geirr Tveitt’s Norwegian folk settings bring intimacy and regional color. The evening closes with the unmistakable passion and rhythmic pulse of Astor Piazzolla, whose music transforms the concert hall into something vibrant, visceral, and alive.
Pianist Gretchen Hull is known for her clarity of touch, expressive depth, and thoughtful musical storytelling, while cellist Vicky Wang brings a warm, lyrical sound and refined sensitivity to every phrase. Together, they create a partnership that is both precise and emotionally resonant—ideally suited to the close, attentive environment of Classical Sundays.
Program
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)Sonata No. 31 in A-flat Major, Op. 110I. Moderato cantabile molto espressivo
Frédéric Chopin (1810–1849)Étude Op. 25, No. 7 in C-sharp Minor Berceuse, Op. 57
David Popper (1843–1913)Concert Polonaise, Op. 14
Sergei Rachmaninoff (1873–1943)Vocalise, Op. 34 No. 14
Nikolai Kapustin (1937–2020)Motive Force, Op. 45
~ Intermission ~
Reena Esmail (b. 1983)Varsha (“Rain”)
Ching-Ju Shih (b. 1967)Thinking of You (arrangement)
Federico Mompou (1893–1987) Secreto
Geirr Tveitt (1908–1981)Selections from Fifty Folk tunes from Hardanger
Astor Piazzolla (1921–1992)Los Sueños Libertango
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
640 Emerson St, Palo Alto, CA, United States, California 94301
Tickets
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