The CGCC Community Arts Program presented the debut performance of Miami Virtuosi on Tuesday evening, February 26. Despite a day fraught with power outages across Florida, a diverse mix of people came out (to the tune of 325!) for an energizing evening of pleasing music.

The February 26 concert embodied all aspects of the CGCC Community Arts Program (CAP) mission: to serve a diverse community with educational and culturally enriching experience through the transforming power of the arts. CGCC CAP Conservatory for the Arts viola instructor Ross DeBardelaben shared the stage with 14-year-old cello prodigy Anna Litvinenko (featured in May on NPR’s From the Top broadcast spotlighting outstanding young musicians) and Anna’s father, Ukraine cellist Konstantin Litvinenko; and Chilean violinists Jaime Mansilla and Stephanie Sidgman Matthei. A highlight of the evening was Anna Litvinenko’s sensitive performance of Bach’s Suite No. 2 in D Minor for Unaccompanied Cello in collaboration with dancers Lianne Landa and Angela Carrodeguas. Those attending were also enriched with Mozart’s Duo for Violin and Viola in G Major, K. 423 and Schubert’s Quintet in C Major, D. 956 for two violins, viola, and two cellos.

Johann Sebastian Bach said, “The aim and final end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul.” These were the greatest gifts of a wonderful evening. Here’s to many more!