Gavilán Brothers and a World Premiere

Violinist Ilmar Gavilán and pianist Aldo López-Gavilán, two of the most gifted Cuban musicians of these times, come together under the artistic name “Gavilán Brothers”, in a duo program of their own compositions; and Aldo López-Gavilán performs the world premiere of a new work by critically acclaimed and award-winning composer, Shawn E. Okpebholo. This piece for solo piano is inspired by the story of Occramer Marycoo, an enslaved African in 18th-century Newport, whose owner dubbed him Newport Gardner. Marycoo, despite his enslavement, became educated, speaking multiple languages, and becoming a trained classical musician. He is credited with being the first African American person to have a composition published in the Western-style. The work was called “Crooked Shanks.” Okpebholo’s work reflects the “perils of the enslaved, the hope of freedom, and the return home.”

This concert is dedicated to Cynthia A. Sinclair in recognition of her generous support of Newport Classical and in loving memory of Marilyn J. Woloohojian.

Crooked Shanks was commissioned by Newport Classical for Aldo López-Gavilán’s July 2022 performance in Newport, RI in loving memory of Marilyn J. Woloohojian for her extraordinary generosity, commitment to the future of classical music, and in honor of her thirty years as a member of the Board of Directors. “Do not let the music die.” – Marilyn J. Woloohojian

Ilmar Gavilán, violin
Aldo López-Gavilán, piano
Shawn E. Okpebholo, composer

PROGRAM:

SHAWN E. OKPEBHOLO Crooked Shanks [world premiere]

ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN Eclypse
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN Caipiriñame
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN Hermanos
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN Momo’s Tale
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN Epilogo

INTERMISSION

ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN Arboles en el aire
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN Waltz
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN Quick Tune
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN Viernes de Ciudad
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN Pan con Timba
*Program subject to change

View Program Notes

Please view our health and safety policy for all indoor concerts HERE before purchasing tickets.

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The Breakers, one of Newport’s grandest summer “cottages,” was built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II in 1893. The 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo features gilded accents throughout exhibiting the Vanderbilt family’s social status and wealth. Concerts are held in the spectacular Great Hall.

Parking and Accessibility Information: Free off-street parking is available in a lot across the street. Patrons who possess an official disability parking placard may park directly at the front of entrance to the mansion, with advance reservation with the Box Office. Those needing additional assistance may be dropped off at the entrance to the mansion, venue is fully accessible.

Doors will open 30 minutes prior to the start of the concert. However, please arrive early to find parking and allow time for ushers to check your vaccination status or negative test results.

View our full Health and Safety Policy here.

Yes, our evening performances will have a 20-minute intermission.

All tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. All tickets may be donated back to Newport Classical as a tax-deductible contribution. In consideration of your fellow patrons and performers, if you have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, or are experiencing symptoms consistent with exposure, please contact the box office to exchange or donate your tickets.

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