The third annual Engelbach-Hart Music Festival is being planned at Illinois College for mid June, thanks to the generosity of the Engelbach-Hart family. The festival will celebrate the rich heritage of music in our community with concerts and masterclasses on the hilltop campus.
Slated for Thursday, June 13, through Saturday, June 15, the Festival will feature jazz and classical pianist Carolbeth True and her Trio. St. Louis Magazine named Carolbeth True "Musician of the Year" for 2004: "The passing of the great Oliver Sain made this choice harder, as our town is blessed with a plethora of phenomenal musicians. But it's Carolbeth True's dedication to the ivories that makes us all grateful she calls St. Louis her home. Whether backed by her joy-inducing trio or playing a more supporting role with Hard Bop Heritage or Sessions Big Band groups, her playing is always original and inspired. If you're especially lucky, you'll catch the set where she tackles 'Birdland.'"
The Carolbeth Trio will be joined by pianist, conductor, and educator Ian Hobson. Clavier Magazine raves "Ian Hobson... shows a finesse and virtuosity that rank him as one of the great pianists of our time. ... He exhibits a clarity, naturalness, and nobility suggestive of Gieseking and Rubinstein and a controlled technique, temperament, and tone reminiscent of Lhévinne."
All concerts and masterclasses are open to the public and free of charge. Check this page for schedule updates and performances.