News Summary
Paul Wiancko has been named the artistic director for Spoleto Festival USA’s Chamber Music series, set to kick off its 2025 season. Following his debut last year, Wiancko will lead a schedule featuring 33 performances over 17 days, including a tribute to Barbra Streisand and a world premiere by composer Mahsa Vahdat. With a unique blend of genres and cultural influences, the upcoming series promises to deliver an innovative and captivating experience for audiences.
Charleston, SC – Paul Wiancko has been appointed as the new artistic director for the Spoleto Festival USA’s Bank of America Chamber Music series, bringing a fresh perspective to the program as it gears up for its 2025 season. Following in the footsteps of former director Geoff Nuttall, Wiancko made his initial debut as series leader last year and is set to lead a robust line-up of performances from May 23 to June 8, 2025.
Planning for the 2025 chamber music series commenced well ahead of the festival’s official launch. The series will showcase an impressive 33 performances over a period of 17 days, with 11 distinctive programs presented three times each. Wiancko, who is also a member of the renowned Kroos Quartet, will take the stage as a cellist in nearly every performance, further intertwining his artistic vision with the music festival.
This year’s chamber music series aims to break new ground by blending various eras, genres, instruments, and cultural influences, setting a dynamic tone for the festival. Among the notable performances is a tribute to famous vocalist Barbra Streisand, presented by celebrated countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo, which is sure to draw considerable attention.
Evening Performances and World Premieres
For the first time in its history, the chamber music series will include two evening performances, marking a shift from its traditional afternoon-only format. One of these evening showcases will feature the world premiere of a piece from composer-in-residence Mahsa Vahdat, an acclaimed Iranian singer and activist known for her innovative blend of traditional Persian music and Western classical influences.
Vahdat’s composition, titled “Three Songs,” intricately weaves ancient Persian poetry by Rumi with contemporary lyrics that resonate with themes of love and resistance. Her unique interpretations of Vivaldi’s famous “Four Seasons,” alongside her own music, are designed to create an emotional connection with the audience, a bond she values deeply, particularly in light of the restrictions on her performances in Iran.
Emphasis on Humanistic Values
Wiancko believes that the inclusion of Vahdat in the chamber music series perfectly embodies the event’s humanistic ideals. This focus on emotional and cultural connectivity is reflected throughout the programming, aimed at drawing in diverse audiences and fostering an appreciation for a rich tapestry of musical traditions.
Overall Festival Highlights
The overall Spoleto Festival USA in 2025 promises to be a vibrant celebration, featuring over 120 performances across a variety of genres, including music, dance, and theater. The festival will kick off with an opening gala and will present operas, contemporary dance productions, and genres that span the musical spectrum.
Wiancko’s leadership and vision for the Bank of America Chamber Music series will undoubtedly set a compelling theme for the festival, enhancing its status as a premier destination for the arts in Charleston. With the combination of established works and exciting new creations, the 2025 series is poised to captivate attendees and solidify its place within the rich cultural landscape of the upcoming festival.
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Additional Resources
- CHS Today: Spoleto Festival USA
- Charleston City Paper: Spoleto’s 49th Lineup
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- Post and Courier: Charleston Holiday Concerts 2024
- Google Search: Spoleto Festival USA
