Lara St. John: The Ancient Flame

Acclaimed violinist Lara St. John performs brilliant concerto

Lara St. John makes her debut with London Symphonia in this performance of Avner Dorman’s extraordinary Violin Concerto No. 2, “Nigunim”. Originally commissioned by the great violinist Gil Shaham as a violin sonata, Lara performed its World Premiere in 2018, the same year it won the Azrieli Prize. Since then, she continues to bring it to audiences around the world. At times playful and at others heart-achingly thoughtful, its music bubbles with energy and sophisticated craft rooted firmly in the traditions of Jewish music. 

Bookending this example of tradition-made-new are by works of two master composers of Jewish descent, both icons of Western music. Felix Mendelssohn’s inspired incidental music to A Midsummer Night’s Dream captures his joy and playfulness. Aaron Copland’s music for the ballet Appalachian Spring became the sonic template for an entire generation of American composers. 

Join us as we celebrate great music and brilliant artistry.

Behind the Music: Internationally acclaimed violinist Lara St. John shares her passion and deep connection with Avner Dorman's Violin Concerto No. 2, "Nigunim" in her conversation with Andrew Chung, Artistic Producer, London Symphonia. Originally composed as a violin sonata, Lara played an important role in the development of the orchestration and performed the World Premiere of the concerto in 2018, the year it was awarded the Azrieli Prize for Jewish Music. She has also performed the piano quintet version with the Gryphon Trio.

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