It’s been 300 years since the publication of Antonio Vivaldi’s universally admired and beloved concerto cycle, The Four Seasons. In celebration, ETHEL is bringing its own signature enthusiasm and virtuosity to what will be an exuberant party. With deep delight, we have invited four contemporary composers to each write a Season of their own to stand alongside Vivaldi’s masterful work. Ching-chu Hu, Layale Chaker, Leilehua Lanzilotti and Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate contribute exciting, powerful, stylish new pieces to the concerto repertoire, each honoring the genius and spirit of the original.
Vivaldi’s music is itself heard in colorful, adept treatments by the members of ETHEL. With joy and panache, the original masterpieces are brought into conversation with contemporary musical idioms. A treat for listeners of all ages and backgrounds, this program promises to extend Vivaldi’s legacy across cultures and well into the future!
Ching-chu Hu
Ching-chu Hu is an award-winning composer whose work seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary elements, creating a unique and evocative musical language. Born in Iowa to Chinese immigrant parents, Hu’s compositions are marked by cultural duality and emotional depth. He has been commissioned by prestigious ensembles such as the Philadelphia Orchestra and has received numerous accolades, including residencies at Yaddo and the MacDowell Colony. As a Professor of Music at Denison University, Hu is also an accomplished pianist, conductor, and mentor. His music often explores themes of memory, identity, and human connection, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.
Ching-chu Hu is an award-winning composer whose work seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary elements, creating a unique and evocative musical language. Born in Iowa to Chinese immigrant parents, Hu’s compositions are marked by cultural duality and emotional depth. He has been commissioned by prestigious ensembles such as the Philadelphia Orchestra and has received numerous accolades, including residencies at Yaddo and the MacDowell Colony. As a Professor of Music at Denison University, Hu is also an accomplished pianist, conductor, and mentor. His music often explores themes of memory, identity, and human connection, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.
Layale Chaker
Layale Chaker is a Lebanese violinist and composer whose work bridges Arabic maqam traditions with contemporary classical music. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Music in London, she has performed at renowned venues including Carnegie Hall and the Berlin Philharmonie. Her debut album, Inner Rhyme, received critical acclaim for its innovative exploration of Arabic poetic traditions. Chaker’s compositions reflect her deep connection to storytelling and her heritage, intertwining the intricacies of modal music with modern harmonic and rhythmic textures. She continues to push artistic boundaries as a sought-after composer and performer on the international stage.
Leilehua Lanzilotti
Leilehua Lanzilotti is a Hawaiian composer, violist, and advocate for contemporary music. A founding member of the string ensemble Koloa Quartet, Lanzilotti’s work often draws from her island heritage, weaving natural soundscapes and indigenous influences into her compositions. She is recognized for her inventive approaches to sound, such as integrating field recordings and extended string techniques. Lanzilotti’s music has been featured at festivals worldwide, and she is a strong advocate for arts education, fostering new generations of musicians. Her unique voice brings a fresh perspective to the classical music landscape.
Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate
Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate, a Chickasaw composer and pianist, is renowned for his dedication to Native American culture and its expression through classical music. A citizen of the Chickasaw Nation, Tate incorporates traditional rhythms, songs, and stories into his compositions, creating a vibrant fusion of past and present. His works have been performed by leading ensembles, including the San Francisco Symphony and the National Symphony Orchestra. Tate’s achievements have earned him numerous awards, including a commission for the Washington National Opera’s American Opera Initiative. As a cultural ambassador, he fosters awareness of Native music traditions worldwide.
