The eagerly awaited annual holiday concert by the National Chamber Ensemble in Arlington promises to be a musical extravaganza, featuring two exceptional guest musicians, including a 13-year-old piano prodigy.
Set to enchant the audience, the concert is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. next Saturday, December 16th, at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington (4444 Arlington Blvd). The program will commence with the timeless holiday classic “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson and will culminate in a joyous carol sing-along towards the conclusion.
General admission tickets are available for $20 for students and $40 for all other attendees, providing an affordable opportunity to experience the magic of this festive musical celebration.
Dynamic Duo: Dylana Jenson and William Hsieh
The headlining acts for this enchanting event include the distinguished Grammy-nominated violinist, Dylana Jenson, aged 62. Notably, in 1978, Jenson made history by becoming the first American woman and the youngest musician at 17 to secure a silver medal in the prestigious Russian International Tchaikovsky Competition, a remarkable feat that continues to resonate in the world of classical music.
Accompanying Jenson is none other than 13-year-old piano prodigy William Hsieh, hailing from Bethesda. Recently, Hsieh clinched the first prize in the National Chamber Ensemble (NCE) annual young artist competition. This competition, drawing pianists aged 12 to 19 from the D.C. area, awards the top winner a scholarship, a crystal trophy, and the coveted opportunity to perform with the ensemble during the December 16th concert.
Leo Sushansky, the Artistic Director of the National Chamber Ensemble, expressed his admiration for this year’s exceptional talent. In a press release, Sushansky lauded Hsieh’s “dynamic playing” marked by “lots of personality and refinement,” anticipating that the young prodigy will infuse added excitement into what is already expected to be a concert highlight.
Enthusiasts and music lovers alike can anticipate an evening of captivating performances, blending the seasoned virtuosity of Dylana Jenson with the youthful brilliance of William Hsieh, promising to make this holiday concert a memorable and harmonious experience for all attendees.
