Violinist Itzhak Perlman Heading to Kansas City
The Harriman-Jewell Series, with its tagline of “bringing the best of the performing arts to Kansas City,” has invited violinist Itzhak Perlman back for his ninth appearance as part of the series.
His first appearance came in 1971. He praises Kansas City and the
audiences he has encountered here over the years. “Yes, Kansas City
has been a regular stop for me practically all of my adult life.
I find the audience welcoming and receptive and I look forward to
returning. I love performing; it is not something that I get tired
of,” he says. “But the concerts are always challenging and fun. Challenging
because I look forward to discovering something new in the music
every time I play and fun because that exercise in itself is rewarding
not to mention the feedback I get from the audience.”
Series founder Dr. Richard Harriman says he is excited to bring Perlman back during the program’s 44th year. “Artists appreciate the warm audience here. We have a certain reputation after all these years. We are known for bringing people for their first performances in the United States, like Luciano Pavarotti. My work is very satisfying when I can give so many such wonderful musical moments,” he says.
Perlman will play at 8 p.m. Oct. 4 at the Folly Theater. His program has not been finalized. His long-term relationship with the Harriman-Jewell series fits with his schedule. “I welcome all audiences at my concerts. The more one listens the more one becomes familiar with and hence comfortable with the music,” Perlman says.
As for promoting classical music, Perlman still believes his role is to educate and encourage. He serves on the Young Audience’s national advisory board. He is active with the Perlman Music Program and performs with students in places like the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
“The answer to the question of how to build an audience for classical music is two fold, it happens in the schools and at home. Exposure at a young age is crucial and is one of the answers. Having programs which begin in grade school, not just listening to CDs but live performances as well as instruction is the way to go,” he says.
The first concert for the season is Conrad Tao, a pianist. The 7 p.m. Sept. 13 concert is free as part of the Discovery series. The intent behind the Harriman-Jewell Series free Discovery concerts is to introduce excellence and artistry to new audiences by eliminating a cost barrier. ”It is fundamental to what we do. While it is exciting to bring back artists that have been here many times, bringing in new acts ensures new audiences for new acts,” says series founder Dr. Richard Harriman. “I have always wanted the arts to be accessible.”
The events begin at 7 p.m. to better accommodate the schedules of families with children. The public can receive up to four free tickets per household while quantities last.