A Monster in the Park
On June 25, pianists from Northwestern University School of Music played to a crowd of thousands at the Monster Piano concert, part of the Grant Park Music Festival. Millennium Park resounded with the thunder of 30 pianists at 10 Steinway grand pianos at this unique concert, which featured performances by Northwestern School of Music Dean Toni-Marie Montgomery; faculty members and a group of distinguished Northwestern alumni and current Northwestern students.
This was Northwestern's first collaboration with the Grant Park Music Festival and Millennium Park, and all parties were pleased with the result, says Richard Van Kleeck, Director of Concert Activities at the School of Music: "There is no question that this was a very successful event for all concerned. The enthusiastic response, both at the concert and in the weeks following, has been tremendous."
Approximately 8,000 people enjoyed the outdoor concert, including hundreds of Northwestern alumni and friends who sported purple clothing to show their Northwestern pride. Those in attendance certainly had much to be proud of as the School of Music showcased their outstanding talent in piano performance. Playing in a Monster Piano Concert is just as thrilling as witnessing it. "The artists were having just as much fun as the audience at the concert," said Van Kleeck. Selections included such masterpieces as Wagner's "Ride of the Valkyries," Bizet's Overture to Carmen, Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, and Rossini's Overture to William Tell. A rousing rendition of Sousa's The Stars and Stripes Forever brought audiences members to their feet at the concert's finale.
Photos by Jasper Chen
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