Cal Poly will host world-renowned Italian pianist Gloria Campaner for a recital at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, in the Pavilion of the Performing Arts Center’s Christopher Cohan Center.
The Venetian-born performer is regarded by critics and the public as one of the most interesting young pianists of Italy’s new generation. Since her stage debut at the age of 12 with the Venetian Symphony Orchestra, she has earned more than 20 first-prizes in national and international piano competitions. Her career as a soloist and chamber musician has led her to be a guest of some of the world’s most prestigious festivals.
Campaner is known for her versatility and interest in innovative performance. She has collaborated with renowned jazz and contemporary musicians as well as ballet and modern dancers.
At Cal Poly, she will perform a concert titled “Home,” featuring two touchstones of romantic piano repertoire: Robert Schumann’s “Kinderszenen” and Frédéric Chopin’s “Preludes.”
Her visit to Cal Poly is made possible by Fredric E. Steck, a retired partner at Goldman Sachs who lives in Santa Ynez. Steck believes in the power of cultural exchange and strongly supports the idea of including language studies in American education. When he learned that Campaner would be performing in the U.S., he eagerly sought to bring her to the Central Coast.
In addition to her public performance, Campaner will speak to students studying the Italian language and will teach a master class for piano students.
“I can’t think of a better representative for Italian culture than Gloria,” Steck said. “I’m thrilled to be able to introduce someone with such artistry and name recognition in Italy to the community — and specifically to the students at Cal Poly.”
Cal Poly’s Music Department is also sponsoring Campaner’s performance, and proceeds from ticket sales will support the Music Department and the World Languages and Cultures Department.
Tickets are $9 for students and $14 for the public. Tickets are sold at the Cal Poly Ticket Office between noon and 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. To order by phone, call 805-SLO-4TIX (805-756-4849). Event parking is sponsored by the PAC.
For more information, call the Music Department at 805-756-2406 or visit the department’s calendar website.