The acclaimed 4HANDS Piano Duo, featuring Czech pianist Kristina Henckel and Cuban pianist Amanda Virelles, returns to the Bradshaw Performing Arts Center (BPAC) on Tuesday, November 19, at 7:00 p.m.
Their program, “100 Years of Rhapsody in Blue,” celebrates the iconic Gershwin masterpiece alongside a cornucopia of beloved American piano favorites.
Henckel and Virelles, both accomplished soloists with international careers, formed 4HANDS Piano Duo in 2019. Their repertoire spans centuries, encompassing Classical, Romantic, and 20th-century masterpieces. This concert promises a vibrant exploration of American piano music, culminating in a thrilling rendition of Gershwin’s timeless “Rhapsody in Blue.”
The performance will be a unique opportunity for Sandhills area audiences to experience the rich tapestry of American piano music live and in person on two magnificent instruments: BPAC’s own Steingraeber and Söhne concert grand piano and a Yamaha SFX concert grand piano generously provided by Sandhills Community College.
Accomplished Musicians, Awarded Duo
Both Henckel and Virelles boast impressive academic credentials. Henckel holds a doctorate in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Oklahoma. At the same time, Virelles earned her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in the same field from the University of Southern Mississippi. Their numerous accolades are a testament to their dedication to their craft. They are Honorable Mention awardees of The American Prize, and most recently, received a Grand Prize and were named Artist of the Year by the International Youth Music Competition (2022). Their New York City debut at Carnegie Hall in November 2023 further solidified their place as an ascendant force in the chamber music world.
Beyond the Performance
In addition to their active performing careers, both Henckel and Virelles are dedicated educators. Henckel is one of the leading lights of the Sandhills Community College Fine Arts faculty, while Virelles holds a professorship at Fayetteville State University. Their passion for music extends beyond the stage, and their commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians shines brightly.
A Jewel in the Sandhills
Bradshaw Performing Arts Center (BPAC) is an entertainment and events hub attracting over 80,000 visitors annually to the Sandhills region. Nestled in the charming resort town of Pinehurst, BPAC boasts five venues (three indoor, two outdoor) that host nearly 200 events each year. From music, theater, and dance to comedy performances, lectures, and visual arts exhibits, BPAC offers a diverse range of experiences for audiences of all ages and interests. Learn more about BPAC at www.SandhillsBPAC.com.
Tickets and Information
Tickets for the 4HANDS Piano Duo’s performance are $29 and are now available at TicketMeSandhills.com. Students with a valid Sandhills Community College ID are admitted free of charge. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the electrifying energy and artistry of the 4HANDS Piano Duo at BPAC!
Contributed by First Flight Agency.
