Now in its 42nd year, the Vivaldi by Candlelight concert series is set to captivate Utahns with an exquisite showcase of pieces by Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi and other Baroque Era masters. Held in support of Utah Global Diplomacy’s mission to promote respect and understanding between the people of Utah and the global community, this performance will celebrate the 20th anniversary of acclaimed violinist and former Utah Symphony associate concertmaster Gerald Elias conducting the chamber orchestra.
Vivaldi by Candlelight transcends borders and barriers, giving Utahns from all walks of life a chance to connect through a common, universal language: music. It is a demonstration of the impact and importance of “music diplomacy,” a concept promoted by the U.S. Department of State, which enlists musicians and artists to use music as a tool to promote peace and democracy across the globe.
“This concert, our chamber orchestra, and our purpose of building bridges through music have become an intimate part of my life and legacy,” said Elias. “I’m extremely honored to conduct this moving celebration of musical diplomacy in partnership with Utah Global Diplomacy – an organization that is helping to create a more peaceful world in the future, one handshake and concerto at a time.”
Titled “Glory of the Violin,” this year’s performance will feature four exceptional violin concertos, each penned by a composer from a different country with direct links to Vivaldi’s artistic influence:
- Johan Georg Pisendel (Germany)
- Pietro Locatelli (Italy)
- Johan Helmich Roman (Sweden)
- Jean-Marie LeClair (France)
Elias himself will grace the stage as a soloist, offering a performance that is sure to move attendees. The concert will feature a tribute to the Baroque master himself, Antonio Vivaldi, highlighting three of his virtuoso concertos for string orchestra.
“Bringing Utahns together through the inspiring power of music is just one way Utah Global Diplomacy builds common ground here at home and across the globe,” said Utah Global Diplomacy president & CEO Felecia Maxfield-Barrett. “Coming off of a contentious U.S. election and ongoing civil unrest around the world, it is essential that we use every tool at our disposal to build bridges. Through music diplomacy, we lay the foundation for generations of peace and prosperity.”
Vivaldi by Candlelight: Glory of the Violin will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at the historic First Presbyterian Church in Salt Lake City, Utah. The concert will begin at 7:00 PM with doors opening at 6:30 PM. Tickets can be purchased online at www.utahglobaldiplomacy.org.
