As the end of the semester approaches, two things are certain exams and stress. But now there is something new to look forward to that will perhaps lower the blood pressure of students.
The Vail Series returns to Denison’s campus with the arrival of pianist Christopher O’Riley.
O’Riley will be performing at 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec 8, in Swasey Chapel.
O’Riley is a native of Chicago and earned his Artist Diploma from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Mass.
O’Riley has made a name for himself by performing both new and old music. In addition, he commonly transcribes his own original arrangements of music.
He has come to be recognized as one of the country’s leading pianists.
According to The New York Times, O’Riley is a “superb…fleet-fingered virile incisive yet lyrical reflective and full of ideas.”
O’Riley’s discography consists of a myriad of composers, such as Beethoven, Busoni, Ravel and Stravinsky. His music covers music from time periods ranging from the English Renaissance to the French Baroque.
Throughout his career, O’Riley has been recognized as a top-notch performer, making guest appearances with such groups as the New York Philharmonic and the St Louis Symphony.
On the international scene, O’Riley has made appearances in cities such as London, Paris and Vienna.
He has collaborated with Pablo Ziegler on a program entitled “Los Tangueros,” which featured the tangos of Piazzolla.
He has also worked with choreographer Martha Clarke in “Vers la Femme.” The piece concentrated around the setting of several Checkov stories and setting them to the music of Scriabin.
In addition, O’Riley has performed twice in the annual Absolut Concerto concerts in Avery Fisher Hall. He will also be performing Michael Daugherty’s “Le Tombeau de Liberace” with the Detroit Symphony Symphony and the St Paul Chamber Orchestra in St Paul.
Tickets to O’Riley’s performance may be obtained free of charge for students in Slayter Hall. They will also be available in a limited number to members of the public.
Upcoming Vail Series performances include the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra on Feb. 16 in Swasey Chapel and Habitats a multimedia performance on March 29, 30 and 31 in Burke Hall Theatre.
For more information, contact the Vail Series Hot Line at (740) 587-6557.
