Friedrich Lips and Stas Venglevski will perform on October 10, 2009 at 7:30 PM at Mount Mary College, Helfaer Hall, 2900 North Menomonee River Parkway, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Friedrich Lips is recognized as the most famous Russian bayanist (accordionist) known, not only in the accordion world but also in classical circles. After intermission Stas Venglevski will be accompanied by an ensemble of local talented musician friends including John Simkus, accordionist, Terry Smirl, percussionist, and John Babbitt, bassist, who will present an eclectic musical program including many of Stas’ original compositions.
Stas Venglevski’s artistry, dazzling technical command, and sensitivity have brought him increasing acclaim as a virtuoso of the bayan. A two-time first prize winner of bayan competition in the Republic of Moldova, Stas is a graduate of the Russian Academy of Music in Moscow where he received his Masters Degree in Music under the tutelage of the famed Russian bayanist, Friedrich Lips. In 1992 he immigrated to the United States.
Stas’ repertoire includes his original compositions, a broad range of classical, contemporary and ethnic music. He has toured extensively as soloist throughout the former Soviet Union, Canada, Europe, and the United States including numerous performances with Doc Severinsen, Steve Allen and with Garrison Keillor on the Prairie Home Companion Show. Additionally, he has performed with symphony orchestras throughout the United States.
Stas performed the world premiere of “Concerto No. 2” by Anthony Galla-Rini and also the world premiere of “Bayan and Beyond”, composed for Stas by Dan Lawitts. He is a regular participant of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s Arts in Community Education Program (ACE); has done television commercials and performed in theater productions; produced numerous recordings including transcription of Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite” for bayan as well as one of original compositions. He has published several books of original compositions.
Stas also performs as a member of the A Sta_Sera Duo where he combines talents with accordionist, John Simkus, known primarily for his smooth jazz renditions. Their musical partnership has resulted in a unique repertoire and as a duo they have toured the United States and Europe extensively and collaborated on a CD of original compositions, Seasonings. Additionally, Stas demonstrates his versatility performing regularly with his Irish friends Leahy’s Luck.
Advance tickets are $20.00. At the door, they are $25.00. For more info call: Stas Venglevski 262-957-6599 or Shirley Barry at 414-543-7714.
E mail: stasvenglevski@sbcglobal.net
