Capitol News

For the 15th consecutive year, Michigan State University's College of Music will celebrate Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with its "Happy Birthday, Mozart!" concert. Scheduled for Monday, January 27 at 7:30 p.m., the event will be held in Fairchild Theatre and is part of the Joanne and Bill Church West Circle Series. This concert has become a significant chamber music event within the college's season.

The series is presented by MSU College of Music at Fairchild Theatre, located in the MSU Auditorium. Known as one of history's greatest composers, Mozart's extensive catalog allows for new interpretations each year. This year's program includes the Piano Four-Hands Sonata in D major (K381), Sonata for Violin and Piano in B-flat major (K454), and Clarinet Quintet in A major (K581).

Performing are several MSU artist-faculty members: Suren Bagratuni on cello, Dmitri Berlinsky on violin, Young Hyun Cho on piano, Stanislav Khristenko on piano, Yvonne Lam on violin, Tamar Mikeladze on piano, Eric Nowlin on viola, and Mingzhe Wang playing basset clarinet.

Deborah Moriarty, director of the West Circle Series, expressed enthusiasm about the event: “We are delighted to honor Mozart’s timeless genius with this cherished annual concert,” she said. “This year’s concert actually takes place on the day of Mozart’s 269th birthday, Jan. 27, making the celebration extra special.”

The celebration will end with birthday cookies and an opportunity for attendees to meet the performers. The West Circle Series will conclude its season with another event titled "Whirlwinds" on April 7 at Fairchild Theatre.

The Stanley and Selma Hollander Endowment for Chamber Music sponsors this concert. Joanne and Bill Church also provide ongoing support for the West Circle Series.

Tickets are priced at $17 for adults, $15 for seniors aged 60 and older, and $7 for students and those under 18 with valid ID. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling (517) 353-5340 or at the door. More details about this event and others in the MSU Music Season can be found at music.msu.edu/events.