Vocalist Alex Samaras presents Elvis Costello's chamber song cycle The Juliet Letters. Joined by a string quartet of Canadian musicians featuring violinists Aline Homzy and Amy Hillis, violist Laurence Schaufele, and cellist Beth Silver, Samaras performs this 70-minute work comprising 17 letters conceived by Elvis Costello and the Brodsky String Quartet.

Inspired by a Veronese professor who spent years responding to letters addressed to Juliet Capulet, Costello and the Brodsky String Quartet expanded the idea into a wide-ranging exploration of letter writing in all its forms, from love letters to farewells and messages of longing. The result is an unorthodox and deeply powerful musical experience.

Audiences may recognize Alex Samaras from his thoughtful and moving performances as part of Allison Au's Migrations Ensemble or the Queer Songbook Orchestra. This evening, he brings these remarkable letters to life in a complete performance of this captivating cycle.

Artists:
Alex Samarasvoice
Amy Hillisviolin
Aline Homzyviolin
Laurence Schaufeleviola
Beth Silvercello
This performance runs approximately 75 minutes and is presented without intermission.