Connoisseurs Concert Series Features Russias Chamber Orchestra Kremlin

One of Russia's leading chamber orchestras will perform on stage in Hattiesburg, Miss., on Tuesday, Feb. 15, as part of The University of Southern Mississippi's School of Music's Connoisseurs Series.

Founded in 1991 and led by Misha Rachlevsky, Chamber Orchestra Kremlin has performed more than 1,400 concerts in 24 countries throughout Europe, North and South America and the Far East. Comprised of some of Russia's finest young string players, the ensemble is known for its warmth and high energy that will stay with listeners long after the last note is played.

“Russia is popularly known for two things – its rockets and its violins,” wrote Swedish newspaper reviewer Andresen Dagbladet. “The Chamber Orchestra Kremlin is renowned for the latter, but their music will take you soaring as if somehow there is a connection to the former.”

This special event will feature works by Mozart, Schoenberg and Schubert.

“They are an extraordinary musical ensemble and we are very lucky to have them in our area,” said Dr. Jay Dean, music director for The University of Southern Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. “Their playing is exquisite and this is truly a not to miss event. This is the first Russian string ensemble to be here in over 15 years.”

Chamber Orchestra Kremlin has recorded more than 30 CDs, receiving widespread international acclaim and awards such as the Diapason d'Or France, Critics Choice in London's Gramophone and in the New York Times, Record of the Year in Hong Kong and others.

The Connoisseurs Series was created to add to the already rich line-up of guest stars and large ensembles in the Southern Miss School of Music. The diverse series of chamber music is programmed to be as accessible to as many people as possible.

Other ensembles in the Connoisseurs Series include Vogler String Quartet on March 20 at First Presbyterian Church and Imani Winds on April 10 at the Hattiesburg Train Depot. The series is sponsored by Partners for the Arts.

The Chamber Orchestra Kremlin concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at Bennett Auditorium. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Southern Miss Ticket Office at 601.266.5418.