SSO Presents Solo Recital by Renowned Violist Diaz Saturday, September 29

SALISBURY, MD---The Salisbury Symphony Orchestra (SSO) presents a solo recital by internationally renowned violist Roberto Díaz 7:30 p.m. Saturday, September 29, in Holloway Hall Auditorium.

“Diaz is one of the world’s greatest violists,” said Dr. Jeffrey Schoyen, conductor of the SSO.

The former principal violist of the Philadelphia Orchestra, Díaz is the president and CEO of that city’s acclaimed Curtis Institute of Music. He has performed with some of the nation’s most popular musicians and ensembles, including Yo-Yo Ma and the Boston Pops.

“Put the viola in the hands of Roberto Díaz and any preconceptions evaporate within several measures,” said The Washington Post.

His recording of viola transcriptions with William Primrose was nominated for a Grammy Award, and he has received critical acclaim.

The Philadelphia Inquirer has compared him to Mozart, Tchaikovsky and others, adding he has gone “far beyond mere technical mastery and full-bodied tone and entered the rarer realm of artistry.”

Christoph Eschenbach, music director of the Philadelphia Orchestra, also described him as “one of the greatest viola players in the world, if not the greatest.”

Pianist Gloria Chien accompanies Díaz in this solo recital. The program includes de Falla’s Suite Pupulaire Espagnole; Hindemith’s Sonata for Viola solo, Op. 25, No. 1; Brahms’ Sonata for Viola and Piano in E flat major, Op. 120, No. 2; and Bloch’s Suite for Viola and Piano.

Admission is $20, $15 for seniors age 60 and up, and $5 for children 12 and under. SU students receive one free ticket with ID.

The SSO offers a “Wine, Dine and Fine Music” dinner prior to the concert in the Social Room and Great Hall of Holloway Hall. Hors d’oeuvres and cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. Tickets are $100 each and include admission to the recital. Proceeds benefit the SSO. For tickets and more information visit the orchestra’s Web site at www.SalisburySymphonyOrchestra.org.