International violin superstar Ray Chen makes highly anticipated Victoria Symphony debut
Acclaimed virtuoso brings Mendelssohn’s beloved Violin Concerto to the Royal Theatre on November 8, alongside a program featuring works by Samy Moussa and Béla Bartók
Victoria, BC – One of the world’s most celebrated violinists is coming to Victoria. On Sunday, November 8, the Victoria Symphony (VS) welcomes internationally acclaimed violinist Ray Chen to the Royal Theatre for his highly anticipated Victoria debut, performing Mendelssohn’s beloved Violin Concerto in E minor with Music Director Christian Kluxen and the orchestra.
Acclaimed for his awe-inspiring technique, deep artistry, and magnetic presence, Chen has redefined what it means to be a classical musician in the 21st century. His career spans performances with leading orchestras around the world, award-winning recordings, and a remarkable online following that has introduced his artistry to millions. For Victoria audiences, this is a rare opportunity to experience a violinist of his talent and influence live in concert.
“It is exciting to welcome Ray to Victoria,” says VS Concertmaster Terence Tam. “He is an artist of international stature who performs in the most important venues all over the world. Beyond his extraordinary musicianship, he has connected with a global audience through his dynamic presence on and off stage.”
Chen first attracted international attention with first-prize wins at the Yehudi Menuhin International Competition for Young Violinists in 2008 and the Queen Elisabeth Competition in 2009. Since then, he has performed with some of the world’s leading ensembles, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, and San Francisco Symphony. His accolades extend beyond the concert hall, with recognition from The Strad and Gramophone magazines, a place on Forbes’ list of “30 Under 30 Asia,” and an ECHO Klassik Award for his debut album, Virtuoso.
At the heart of the November 8 concert is Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor, one of the most cherished works in the violin repertoire and a perfect showcase for Chen’s radiant virtuosity. The afternoon opens with Elysium by Canadian composer Samy Moussa, a luminous orchestral work evoking reward and renewal. Following the Mendelssohn concerto, the orchestra turns to Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra, a richly varied work composed during the final years of the composer’s life in exile.
The concert takes place Sunday, November 8, at 2:30 pm at the Royal Theatre. Audiences are also invited to a pre-concert chat at 1:40 pm featuring Ray Chen, Music Director Christian Kluxen, and VS Concertmaster Terence Tam.
Tickets and concert information are available at victoriasymphony.ca/concerts/season-special-kluxen-ray-chen-plays-mendelssohn/.
CONCERT DETAILS
What: Kluxen – Ray Chen Plays Mendelssohn
When: Sunday, November 8 at 2:30 pm
Where: Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street
Artists: Ray Chen, violin; Christian Kluxen, conductor
Program:
- Samy Moussa: Elysium
- Mendelssohn: Violin Concerto in E minor
- Bartók: Concerto for Orchestra
About the Victoria Symphony
The Victoria Symphony (VS) is one of British Columbia’s largest performing arts organizations, with a mission to engage audiences through the transformational power of live orchestral music. A vital part of Vancouver Island’s cultural landscape, VS presents bold performances, collaborates with world-renowned artists, and fosters community through the shared experience of music. Under the leadership of Music Director Christian Kluxen and Principal Pops Conductor Sean O’Loughlin, VS presents a diverse range of programming each season, including classical masterworks, new music, films, pops, and family concerts. Through school concerts, community outreach programs, and free outdoor performances, VS endeavors to make orchestral music accessible to all.
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Media Contact:
Maya Lohcham, Director of Marketing and Communications
Email: maya@victoriasymphony.ca
Phone: 250-412-2658