arts & entertainment

Vero Beach is being visited once again by the popular Con Brio Quartet. The four talented string musicians will perform a concert of Classical and late Romantic period works at 4:00 PM on Sunday, February 22 at First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach, 520 Royal Palm Boulevard.

Part of the Con Brio Ensembles of South Florida, the Con Brio Quartet is comprised of four international musicians from Russia, Uzbekistan, Mexico and Ukraine. Valentin Mansurov (violin), Aziz Sapaev (cello), David Pedraza (viola) and Marina Lenau (violin) will first perform Austrian composer Joseph Haydn’s String Quartet in G Major, Op. 76, No. 1, composed around 1797 for Count Erdödy. The “Erdödy” quartets are often regarded as Haydn’s best in the genre, showcasing peak thematic development and structure. Haydn was a towering figure of the Classical period, known both as the “Father of the Symphony” and the “Father of the String Quartet” for his crucial role in developing these forms.

The Con Brio Quartet will be joined by First Presbyterian’s own Dr. Jacob Craig for Antonín Dvořák’s Piano Quintet No. 2 in A major. Written in 1887, the masterpiece of late Romantic chamber music is celebrated for its rich melodies, blend of piano and strings, and deep Czech folk influences. Con brio, which means “with panache” is an apt description for the group, whose playing style has thrilled audiences throughout the United States and abroad for over a decade. The February 22 concert will mark the eighth appearance by the Con Brio Quartet for audiences at First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach. Admission is free. For more information, call (772) 562-9088.  

Dr. Jacob Craig, Director of Music and Arts at First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach, is a talented pianist in his own right. A well-recognized Central Florida musical figure, Craig is a past recipient of the Indian River Cultural Council’s Laurel Award. He curates the musical programs at First Presbyterian and is looking forward to welcoming the Con Brio Quartet back to the Treasure Coast for the eighth time.  

“We have repeatedly programmed Con Brio because of their fantastic musicianship and engaging personalities,” said Dr. Craig. “For me, it is always exciting to perform with musicians of their caliber. This will be an afternoon of truly beautiful music for all who attend.” 

The concert by the Con Brio Quartet is just one of many events sponsored or hosted by First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach, known for its musical and artistic outreach to the Central Florida community. Concert donations directly benefit the Music and Arts Department and help fund the appearance of quality musical groups throughout the year. For a list of upcoming events or for more information about First Presbyterian of Vero Beach, visit www.FirstPresVero.org.