Composed of members from China, Brazil, South Korea and the United States, Galvin Cello Quartet will showcase their musical talents at Walton Arts Center on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 7 pm. Cellists Sihao He, Sydney Lee, Haddon Kay and Luiz Fernando Venturelli met as students at Northwestern University's Bienen School of Music in the studio of acclaimed pedagogue Hans Jørgen Jensen.
The Galvin Quartet incorporates virtuosity and uniqueness through every individual bringing their own artistic nuance to the ensemble. We asked the quartet a few questions to get more insight into this unique group.
What can audiences expect when they come see this performance?
We’re bringing a new concert experience that you’ve never seen before. It’s a program that will be interactive and engaging and will take you on a journey to encounter the cello quartet and all its capabilities.
From where do you draw inspiration for your art?
We love to draw from the ethnic backgrounds of each of our members and explore the different genres and styles of music within each respective culture.
What drew you to this performance field?
Chamber music is a core part of the classical music world, but most importantly all four of us were friends before we played in the quartet, so performing together is just a fortunate opportunity we get to enjoy.
Is there a story behind how you chose your name?
When we were applying for the Fischoff competition we had to make recordings for the preliminary round. We devoted a large amount of time to recording in Northwestern’s Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall so we wanted to dedicate our group name to Mary B. Galvin.
Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups? If so, what are they?
After a dress rehearsal, we all go back home to take long naps. Right before we go on stage we also like to eat bananas.
Pick 5 words that best describe your work.
Innovative, lush, sensational, captivating and virtuosic.
What is the best advice that you have been given?
One of the best pieces of advice that we’ve received is to play music that represents who we are as a group.
Do you have a favorite part of your set to perform?
We love to end our concerts with a bang with Piazolla’s La Muerte del Angel.
What are some unique or memorable experiences you’ve had while traveling around the world to share your music?
Our most memorable experience is driving 20 hours in a minivan across the country with all of our cellos and luggage asking each other “legitimate questions.”
What songs, artists or genres of music are you currently listening to?
We like to unwind with chill R&B, oldies, jazz and sometimes some High School Musical.
This performance is presented as part of the 10x10 Art Series, an intriguing and innovative showcase of art forms, meticulously curated to satisfy the artistic curiosity of the Northwest Arkansas community. Crafted by our programming team, the 10x10 Arts Series invites everyone to venture into uncharted artistic territories. Embrace the opportunity to explore, take a leap of faith and try something new. After all, tickets are only $10.