One of the most prominent cellists on the international music scene, Kristina Reiko Cooper (USA), returns to Kaunas. Her friendship with Constantine Orbelian, principal conductor of the Kaunas City Symphony Orchestra, began several years ago and has since led to a number of exceptional projects. Together, they have recorded a music album and presented the world premiere of composer Lera Auerbach’s symphony dedicated to Chiune Sugihara and his heroic deed. Kristina also took part in a special concert at the Kaunas Cathedral Basilica alongside world renowned soprano Asmik Grigorian, Ukrainian tenor Dmytro Popov, the Kaunas City Symphony Orchestra, and the Kaunas State Choir. A recording of this concert has been broadcast on Europe’s leading culture and arts channel “ARTE”.
In an interview, Kristina said: “Ch. Sugihara was one of the few diplomats who saved Jews during World War II. As the Japanese consul in Kaunas, without the permission of his government, he issued more than 6,000 transit visas and thus saved the lives of those people. Among them was my husband’s father. That is why Kaunas is extremely important to me – it is part of my family’s history.”
Having grown up in a musical family, Kristina has earned worldwide recognition for her versatility, artistry, and charisma on stage. “The New York Times” has called her a “concert sensation,” while the “Los Angeles Times” described her as a “stunning virtuoso.” She has performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, captivating audiences with her mastery, her unique ability to reveal the beauty of the cello’s timbre, and her blend of tenderness and lightness.
Listeners can expect a musical dialogue of the highest calibre between the cello and the orchestra – from intimate, heart touching melodies to powerful, emotionally charged climaxes.
Two worlds will unite on one stage – the individuality of the soloist and the harmony of the orchestra. The Kaunas City Symphony Orchestra invites you to listen and immerse yourself in unforgettable stories told through sound.