Classical Connections

Twelve pianists of monstrous talent have converged on San Antonio this week for The Gurwitz 2020, the San Antonio International Piano Competition that is now under the aegis of Musical Bridges Around the World. From Russia, Italy, South Korea, Ukraine, China and Canada they come, seeking the Gold Medal, and with it a $25,000 award. The Silver Medalist wins $15,000 and the Bronze Medalist will win $10,000.

Holiday favorites and high spirits are on the bill this weekend as the U.S. Air Force Band of the West presents their annual “Holiday in Blue” concert at Edgewood Theatre of the Performing Arts. This free event is open to the public, and features the 62-piece military band and their many splinter groups (jazz band, wind ensembles), performing favorite melodies for Christmas, Hanukkah, and more.

“What’s so great about seeing the YOSA [Youth Orchestras of San Antonio] Philharmonic is you have these young musicians who bring a level of energy and engagement to what they do that will blow you away,” says Troy Peters, YOSA Music Director.

Tenor David Portillo took his talent from Holmes High School on San Antonio’s west side all the way to the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. Now, he’s coming back to town with YouthCUE, a nationwide effort to positively impact kids through the power of choral music.

Pianist and composer Justin Sherburn has enjoyed a long career as a touring musician with Austin bands like 8 ½ Souvenirs and Okkervil River, but now finds himself in front of the big screen with his ensemble Montopolis, performing original soundtracks to silent classics, and now creating a series of multimedia productions highlighting the natural wonders of the Lone Star State.

Matthew Dunne is a music professor at UTSA, and after 27 years he plans to retire this summer. He has scheduled one last recital with past and present students this weekend.  

Since the fall, SOLI Chamber Ensemble has been working with students from four area universities on a project to debut eight new compositions at a first-ever SOLI Invitational Composition Contest. The free event will be held on Wednesday, March 6 at 7:30 p.m. at the Recital Hall on the UTSA Main Campus.

The San Antonio Symphony is collaborating with the Institute of Texan Cultures to present “Music at the Museum” on Monday, February 25. The event benefits both organizations, and funds go toward education initiatives.