News
Wednesday, 18 May 2011
Tokyo String Quartet to perform Japan benefit concert
The internationally renowned Tokyo String Quartet will perform for the first time in Oxford on 1 June to raise money for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami that devastated the north-east coast of Japan on 11 March this year. All proceeds will go to the British Red Cross Japan Appeal.
Playing in the historic setting of University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, the Quartet will perform captivating masterpieces by Haydn, Szymanowski, and Schumann.
The ensemble performs on the "Paganini Quartet", a group of renowned Stradivarius instruments named for legendary violin virtuoso Niccolò Paganini, who acquired and played them during the 19th century.
Clive Greensmith, cellist with the Tokyo String Quartet, said: ‘We all have family, friends, and colleagues in Japan. My first cello lessons were in Oxford and my brother went to St. Catherine’s. It will be a great pleasure to perform in the city for this worthy cause. We feel very close to the Japanese people, especially at this difficult time.’
The Quartet responded to the invitation of Ms Chika Akizawa, a classical musician. She said: ‘Looking at other charitable ventures, including a highly successful toy sale at St. Barnabas School where my son attends, I felt I could contribute from a different angle. Fortunately I had an inside contact in the music industry who suggested the Tokyo String Quartet. The entire concert was arranged between us in less than 48 hours. ’
The concert takes place at University Church of St Mary the Virgin, Oxford. Ticket prices range from £10 to £40. There will be a wine/canape reception for £40 ticket holders. Vaults and Gardens Cafe in the back of the Church will remain open until 7pm on the day for light refreshments.
Those who are unable to attend the concert but would like to donate to the cause can make a donation through St. Barnabas School’s fund-raising page: http://www.justgiving.com/stbarnabasschool.
