Close Encounters With Music Presents: Romance of the Romani!—Ravel, Bartok, Liszt, Haydn and Brahms at Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center

Close Encounters With Music concludes its acclaimed 34th season with Romance of the Romani!, a thrilling afternoon of passion, virtuosity, and musical storytelling inspired by the fiery traditions of Hungarian and Romani music.

Under the direction of celebrated cellist and Artistic Director Yehuda Hanani, audiences will experience an electrifying program filled with sweeping lyricism, dazzling technical brilliance, and the irresistible rhythmic vitality that has captivated composers and listeners for generations.

Joining Hanani are an extraordinary roster of guest artists including violinist Hye-Jin Kim, violist Helena Baillie, cellist Laura Melnicoff.and pianist Max Levinson. Together, they bring to life music overflowing with sensuality, nostalgia, improvisatory spirit, and explosive energy.

For more than three decades, Close Encounters With Music has built a devoted Berkshire following through imaginative programming and performances that break down barriers between artists and audiences. Hanani’s uniquely engaging concert style — blending humor, insight, spontaneity, and world-class artistry — has made CEWM one of the region’s most distinctive and beloved cultural institutions.

Romance of the Romani promises an unforgettable season finale: music of longing and celebration, intimate chamber music moments alongside exhilarating displays of virtuosity, and the kind of emotional immediacy that makes live performance unforgettable.

Following the concert, patrons are invited to CEWM’s annual Gala Dinner at the Stockbridge Golf Club. The festive evening will feature a Hungarian-themed dinner, lively conversation with artists and supporters, and a special preview teasing CEWM’s highly anticipated 35th anniversary season.

Concert tickets and gala packages are available through Close Encounters With Music

YouTube: https://go.evvnt.com/3647625-4?pid=11710

Artists: Yehuda Hanani, Hye-Jin Kim, Helena Baillie, Laura Melnicoff, Max Levinson

Time: 16:00 - 18:00