Was it difficult to find eight regional cellists who wanted to learn, rehearse, and present a full-length program of cello-centric works? Not at all, according to Octocelli member Elizabeth Start. In fact, there were more volunteers than was needed for the "Cello Explosion" program.
On Thursday at First Baptist Church of Kalamazoo, members of Octocelli will showcase their instrument with works for one through eight cellos. Three pieces will also feature soprano Katelin Spencer, including the famous Bachianas Brasilieras No. 5 by Villa-Lobos. David Peshlakai, principal cellist of the Kalamazoo Symphony, will perform a virtuosic solo piece by cellist/composer Elizabeth Start, called Verdisimilitude. Anne Sherfield says the concert will feature one of her favorite works for multiple cellos, David Popper's Requiem.
Music begins at 8 pm. The concert is free (freewill offerings accepted).
