The Ekstasis Duo – featuring Natasha Farny, cello, and Eliran Avni, piano – is thrilled to return to Live from Hochstein. Their new program features luscious Romantic Viennese music from a student/teacher pairing, Alexander Zemlinsky and Alma Mahler; a dynamic sonata movement by George Walker (the first African American composer to win a Pulitzer); a charming nocturne by Lili Boulanger (the first woman to win the Rome Prize); and a blockbuster sonata by Dutch composer Henriette Bosmans. These compositions fell into obscurity, but since they are grand slam works, they may soon become your favorites.

Read the online program notes.

The Ekstasis Duo performs music for cello and piano and their mission is to create compelling programming celebrating masterpieces alongside the secret jewels of lesser-known works. With a focus on storytelling that pinpoints an aspect of the human condition or creates an atmosphere through sound, their concerts offer solo and chamber music works, and occasionally incorporate multimedia, readings, video, and visual art.

Since their debut in 2018, The Ekstasis Duo has appeared on distinguished series such as New York City’s Merkin Hall and Eastman’s Morning Chamber Music Series. During the summer of 2020, the duo recorded music for their upcoming debut CD, Women’s Voices, projected for release in 2021.

The Hochstein School’s free noontime Live from Hochstein concert series will be hosted by WXXI Classical’s Mona Seghatoleslami and broadcast live on WXXI Classical. Listen to the concert at WXXI-FM 91.5, WXXY 90.3, or online at https://www.classical915.org/.

* Proof of vaccination is required for audience members (children age 11 and under must be accompanied by a vaccinated adult). All patrons will be required to wear masks. Please refrain from bringing food/drink into the hall so that we can all remain masked.

See the full safety protocols at https://hochstein.org/Calendar/Live-from-Hochstein.

Sidney and Barbara Sobel have generously provided continuous underwriting of the Live from Hochstein Broadcast & Concert Series since 1993. Live from Hochstein is also made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.