The New Canaan Men’s Club will have a notable change from its regular programming at its meeting February 21 when it hosts Jonathan Yates, musical director and conductor of the Norwalk Symphony, and Marina Kitaychik, a violinist with the symphony and music educator, for a performance and remarks about the orchestra, now in its 80th year.
Because of Friday’s unique program, the club is welcoming spouses and outside guests to enjoy the performance in St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 111 Oenoke Ridge, either in person, or online. The performance in the church is scheduled for 10:40 a.m., but it’s requested that guests arrive by 10:30 a.m. The club will meet at its usual 10 a.m. time for its regular business in Morrill Hall, before adjourning to the church sanctuary for the musical performance and discussion.
Yates, an accomplished pianist who has performed with internationally recognized musicians, such as violinist Midori, cellist David Finckel and pianist Gilbert Kalish, has led the symphony since its 2011-2012 season. He received his graduate degree in conducting from the Juilliard School and was the holder of the Bruno Walter Memorial Scholarship. He serves as music director emeritus of the chamber ensemble, Camerata Notturna in New York City.
At the Symphony’s next performance, March 23, at 7:30 p.m. in Norwalk City Hall, the Music For All Ages concert includes George Gershwin’s “An American in Paris,” and Aaron Copland’s “Lincoln Portrait,” which will be narrated by Today Show Co-Host Craig Melvin. The Norwalk Symphony’s mission is to “share the beauty and power of orchestral music for audiences of all ages through live performances and music education.”
Yates is also musical director and conductor of the Norwalk Youth Symphony, now in its 69th year, which performed in Italy last summer.
Kitaychik has studied at the Moscow Conservatory and earned both her bachelor and master of music degrees from Mannes College of Music at The New School in New York. She received chamber music coaching from members of the Shostakovich Quartet, Borodin Quartet, and Orion String Quartet.
In addition to attending the performance at the church, the Men’s Club is also making it available to the public online, by clicking the link, Norwalk Symphony at the New Canaan Men’s Club after 10:30am on February 21.
The Men’s Club has openings for new members, men 55-years and above. For information about joining, email ncmens@ncmens.club.