For the opening program of the 62nd concert season, the Tryon Concert Association will present the esteemed Fine Arts Quartet and pianist Orion Weiss at the Tryon Fine Arts Center, Thursday, Sept. 29, at 8 p.m.

The Fine Arts Quartet, established in 1946, has had very little turnover of musicians over the past 70 years. Violinists Ralph Evans and Efim Boico have performed together for more than 32 years, while cellist Robert Cohen and violist Juan-Miguel Hernandez joined the group more recently. The quartet has worked with many national and international ensembles. Their teaching residency started at Northwestern University in 1951. Since 1963 they have been the quartet-in-residence at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Since 1958 the quartet has toured Europe annually. In the late 60s the United States Department of State sponsored the quartet’s tours to Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Australia and New Zealand.

The group has a long history of performances on television and radio. Their award-winning recordings are many and range from the classical and romantic periods to works of contemporary composers.

Award-winning pianist Orion Weiss is noted for his solo performances with many outstanding orchestras including the Chicago Symphony, Boston Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic and the New York Philharmonic. As well, he is known for his work with chamber music groups.

In addition to the concert on Sept. 29, the quartet members will hold a discussion of their work on Wednesday, Sept. 28, at 5 p.m. at the Lanier Library. This meeting is open and free to the public.

On Thursday evening at 7 p.m., preceding the concert at Tryon Fine Arts Center, St. Luke’s Hospital will host a reception to celebrate the new season. Season series tickets may be purchased by mail or online.

Contact us at tryonconcerts.org or P.O. Box 32, Tryon, NC 28782.

– article submitted by Joella Utley