November 22, 7 PM
The XII International M. K. Čiurlionis Music Festival invites you to a special concert featuring two renowned Lithuanian artists – saxophone virtuoso Petras Vyšniauskas and pianist Aleksandra Žvirblytė, dedicated to the 20th anniversary of Lithuania’s accession to the European Union. The projects of these two musicians have already captured the hearts of music lovers in Lithuania and Europe. Both the audience and music critics admire the performers’ highest level of mastery, unique artistic ideas, and the intriguing fusion of classical music masterpieces with spontaneous improvisations, with thoughts and ideas born in the moment.
The concert will feature original compositions and improvisations inspired by the music of all 27 European Union countries. Two different worlds – classical music and the art of improvisation. Two striking personalities from different stylistic backgrounds play and provoke, creating a new alloy. New music is born, unique and unexpectedly organic.
Petras Vyšniauskas:
“I am not Žvirblytė, but I fly. I am not Classical, but I found. I have seen nothing freer and nothing greater. I felt. Time passes. I want to rise again.”
Aleksandra Žvirblytė:
“To play what you know well and at the same time not to know where fantasy will take you. To descend provocatively and provoke, thus arriving at the freedom of thought. A true artistic trance.”
“Petras Vyšniauskas’s concert with pianist Aleksandra Žvirblytė was enchanting. The concept is simply incredible. The effect is breathtaking not only because Petras constantly takes risks but also because the music is so subtle and intense that it inevitably brings tears. An unforgettable concert…” (Emmanuel de Gouvello, France)
“The Lithuanian soprano saxophonist Petras Vyšniauskas is, in my opinion, one of the most original musicians focusing on this instrument – his bright phrases expand with boldly original intervals, and his sound is powerful – stronger and more precise than Sam Rivers, denser and more concentrated than Steve Lacy, perhaps even polyphonic, like Evan Parker.” (Howard Mandel, New York, USA)
“Here, on stage, Aleksandra Žvirblytė unrestrictedly creates a sensuous musical picture. Her playing is not only technically perfect but also spiritually rich. Excellent technique becomes merely a tool to express a unique understanding of music.” (Steen Sogaard, Morgenavisen Jyllandsposten, Denmark)
Festival organizer: VšĮ Klasika LT
Festival partner: Vilnius City Hall
