PRINCETON, NJ – A standing ovation greeted three young Greek musicians at Channing Hall, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, after a chamber music recital that blended technical mastery with emotional intensity.
The program, performed by pianist Stamatis Vlachodimitris, violinist Alexandros Gavriilidis-Petrin, and cellist Stergios Theodoridis, featured Prokofiev’s Violin Sonata No. 2, Shostakovich’s Piano Trio No. 2, and Giya Kancheli’s ‘Instead of a Tango’. Each work showcased the ensemble’s cohesion and expressive range, moving the Princeton audience from moments of lyrical delicacy to passages of raw power.
Though based across the United States — from New Jersey to California — the three Greek musicians have set roots in the U.S. and share a commitment to bringing their artistry to domestic and international audiences. The concert was presented under the auspices of the Hellenic Federation of New Jersey, which sponsors cultural events that highlight the achievements of Greeks living and studying in the United States.
Federation Secretary Angelo Athens stated: “Our Federation here in New Jersey is proud to support young artists of Greek origin who are doing work of high artistic quality. We also help dispel the notion that Greek artists only focus on folk and popular music.”
Each of the performers has an impressive international résumé.
Stamatis Vlachodimitris, originally from Hydra, is a prize-winning pianist currently pursuing his Doctor of Musical Arts at Rutgers University.
Stergios Theodoridis, a Thessaloniki-born cellist, is a founding member of the Erinys Quartet and has performed widely in Europe and the U.S.
Alexandros Gavriilidis-Petrin, praised for his rich tone and stage presence, performs extensively with leading orchestras in California.
The afternoon recital was offered free to the public, with a suggested donation, and drew both members of the Greek-American community and local music lovers. For many, it was an opportunity to hear chamber music of the 20th century brought to life by a new generation of performers. The reception for the artists and the organizers was sponsored by the Hellenic Link of New Jersey.
The Hellenic Federation of New Jersey plans to continue sponsoring similar cultural events that showcase the breadth of Greek talent and creativity. Please join them and contribute in any way to help their mission.
For more information about upcoming events supported by the Hellenic Federation of New Jersey, visit www.hellenicfederationofnewjersey.org.
