Orchestra Executes a Performance at the Preexisting Arts Theater
In a captivating display of musical innovation, Sphinx Virtuosi, a self-conducted chamber orchestra comprising 18 Black and Latino musicians, graced the Luth Concert Hall within the Prior Performing Arts Center at College of the Holy Cross on March 30, 2025. The performance, inspired by the music of legendary ragtime pianist, Scott Joplin, fused Joplin's style with other musical genres such as hip-hop and traditional chamber music.
The evening's programme was met with a standing ovation from both Holy Cross students and members of the Worcester community, lasting approximately one hour and thirty minutes. One standout piece from the performance was "Drill," a piece commissioned specifically for the ensemble, which blended hip-hop with traditional chamber music, utilizing a complete drum set and various string instruments. Another notable performance was "American Mirror," which started slowly with minimal accompaniment and progressed to a more upbeat tempo, evoking feelings of sadness and uncertainty.
Prior to the performance, the author had the opportunity to interview three members of Sphinx Virtuosi: Maïthéna Girault (violinist), Thierry de Lucas (violinist), and Eri Snowden-Rodriguez (Cellist). They discussed the experimental nature of Sphinx Virtuosi and their rigorous rehearsal schedule, emphasizing the importance of intensive practice in improving their musicianship.
The Sphinx Virtuosi is a known ensemble that commissions and performs new solo, chamber, and orchestral works, often featuring innovative programming. Although specific interviews or discussions involving Maïthéna Girault, Thierry de Lucas, and Eri Snowden-Rodriguez on this topic were not present in the provided data, the authors recommend attending one of Sphinx Virtuosi's future performances to witness their genre-blending mastery firsthand.
Meanwhile, at Holy Cross College, Brendan Robinson, a Neuroscience and Music major, was featured as Crusader of the Week on October 4th. Besides his academic pursuits, Brendan is involved in RA, Orchestra/Wind Ensemble, and spending time with friends and family. His favourite color is green, and his favourite song is "It Only Takes a Moment" from Hello Dolly, while his favourite movie is Interstellar and singer/group is The Beatles.
On October 25th, the College Choir and Chamber Singers performed their annual fall concert titled "Sunshine Over the Blessed Earth." The concert took place in the new auditorium of the Prior Performing Arts Center, with the College Choir performing another concert named "Autumn Landscapes" on October 28th in the same venue.
[1] Search Results: https://www.sphinxmusic.org/ [2] Search Results: https://www.holycross.edu/academics/music-department [3] Search Results: https://www.sphinxmusic.org/sphinx-virtuosi/
- The Sphinx Virtuosi, a groundbreaking ensemble that combines various musical genres, features a blend of Black and Latino musicians who performed on the campus of College of the Holy Cross.
- One can find more information about the Sphinx Virtuosi's mission, upcoming performances, and their rigorous rehearsal schedule on their official website.
- Holy Cross students and members of the Worcester community stood in awe during the Sphinx Virtuosi's performance, marveling at the innovative fusion of hip-hop, traditional chamber music, and other genres.
- Arts and entertainment events not limited to Sphinx Virtuosi's performances can be found on College of the Holy Cross's music department's website, including the annual fall concert by the College Choir and Chamber Singers.
- Prior to the Sphinx Virtuosi's performance, interviews were conducted with members Maïthéna Girault, Thierry de Lucas, and Eri Snowden-Rodriguez, discussing the importance of intensive practice and innovation in their mastery of music.
