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A block party and recitals on tap as rising piano stars come to northern Michigan

Pianist Lang Lang (seated at left) with participants in the Lang Lang International Music Foundation's Young Scholars program. (Photo: Lang Lang International Music Foundation)
Lang Lang International Music Foundation
Pianist Lang Lang (seated at left) with participants in the Lang Lang International Music Foundation's Young Scholars program. (Photo provided by the Lang Lang International Music Foundation)

IPR hosts teen pianists from around the world — performing in recital halls, museums, galleries and at a block party in Traverse City's social district.

It's part of a new summer offering, resulting from a partnership between Interlochen Center for the Arts and the Lang Lang Young Scholars Program, a multi-year mentoring program for pianists under the age of 18.

The 15 teenage participants will spend a week at Interlochen Center for the Arts, participating in lessons and master classes. There is special emphasis on citizen artistry.

The musicians will also make studio recordings in Interlochen Public Radio's Studio A and record interviews with Christy L'Esperance for fall episodes of Intermezzo, Classical IPR's radio show and podcast for children and families.

At the heart of the students' time in northern Michigan is a series of public performances presented by Interlochen Public Radio.

On Sunday, June 15, the young pianists will present two recitals in different parts of the region. One group will perform at Oliver Art Center in Frankfort, while a second group will perform at the Music House Museum in Williamsburg.

On Tuesday, June 17, these pianists will be the centerpiece of a block party in Traverse City's Social District, located on the east end of the business district near the intersection of Eighth Street and Garfield Avenue.

Their week will conclude with a recital extravaganza back in Interlochen's Dendrinos Chapel and Recital Hall on Thursday, June 19.

The Interlochen - Lang Lang International Music Foundation Piano Intensive - Becoming A Citizen Artist is funded by the US China Cultural Foundation.

“We’re delighted to welcome the Lang Lang Young Scholars to Interlochen,” said a statement from Trey Devey, president of Interlochen Center for the Arts. “This exciting opportunity not only allows us to play a role in preparing these remarkable young pianists but also to deepen our relationship with globally renowned pianist Lang Lang and his extraordinary Foundation.”

Founded in 2008 by Lang Lang, the Lang Lang International Music Foundation (LLIMF) strives to educate, inspire and motivate the next generation of music lovers and performers.

"We are thrilled to partner with Interlochen Center for the Arts to offer this unique opportunity to our Lang Lang Young Scholars,” said a statement from Leszek Barwinski-Brown, CEO of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation. “We believe this program will equip these talented young pianists with the tools to communicate their passion and artistry, leaving a lasting impact on their audiences and communities around the world."

Dr. Amanda Sewell is IPR's music director.