Cleveland International Piano Competition President Speaks at ConverZations
CANTON, OHIO (January 24, 2017) – The CSO is honored to have Pierre van der Westhuizen presenting on the ConverZations lecture scheduled for February 13, 2017. ConverZations is a series of free public discussions, held at the Zimmermann Symphony Center (2331 17th Street NW), and features a variety of guest speakers who provide a pleasant and entertaining way for audience members to “get inside” the music. Sponsored by T. K. & Faye A. Heston and the Ada C. & Helen J. Rank Charitable Trust, the ConverZations Series will continue on the second Monday of every month until April 2017.
With performances described as showcasing the “utmost polish,” “impressive control” with a “broad stylistic spectrum” (Beeld, South Africa), South African pianist Pierre van der Westhuizen has established himself as an accomplished and versatile musician, with critically acclaimed and enthusiastically received performances across South Africa, the USA, and Europe. Mr. van der Westhuizen is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Cleveland International Piano Competition, and he brings a multi-faceted experience and approach to his activities with this world-class organization.
Mr. van der Westhuizen joins us on February 13 to discuss the impact the Cleveland Piano Competition has on the music scene in North East Ohio. This is a prelude to the CSO’s MasterWorks concert on Feb 25, which features the 2016 Cleveland International Piano Competition’s winner, Nikita Mndoyants. He will talk in detail regarding the beginnings and growth of the competition, as well as the future ventures of the event. Mr. van der Westhuizen will also touch on the impact the competition has on the careers of winners such as Mr. Mndoyants.
ConverZations attendees are encouraged to bring their lunch, and the orchestra provides coffee and a light dessert. For more information on upcoming ConverZations lectures and other events run by the Canton Symphony Orchestra, visit www.cantonsymphony.org/converzations.
Founded in 1937, the Canton Symphony Orchestra is a fully professional ensemble and organization dedicated to performing concerts that enrich, educate and entertain residents of Stark County and beyond. The orchestra performs classical, holiday, casual, and a variety of educational programs in Umstattd Performing Arts Hall, adjacent to the Zimmermann Symphony Center at 2323 17th Street NW, Canton, Ohio, as well as other venues in Stark County. For more information, please visit www.cantonsymphony.org or call (330)452-2094. Administrative offices are located at the Zimmermann Symphony Center 2331 17th Street NW, Canton OH 44708.
