Stillman creates another classic “Play Within a Concert”

Judith Stillman’s name is known throughout the music world as an outstanding pianist, accompanist and collaborator.

From her “home” at Rhode Island College, she has travelled the world with such artists as Winton Marsalis, in addition to some of the finest orchestras.

Recently she has earned a reputation as a creator of “A Play Within a Concert,” a unique vehicle for bringing classical music to audiences in a unique educational and entertaining way.

The concept is to present the music of great composers to the stage by combining narrative, live music and visual art.

We have seen her works based on great composers Dvorak and Beethoven, and marveled at the genius that went into the research and compilation of music in the productions.

Using professional actors as narrators and members of the Rhode Island Philharmonic to provide the music, with herself at the piano, Judith has created true masterpieces.

In celebration of Women’s History month, Stillman and Friends from the R.I. Philharmonic presented “Woman Trailblazers in Music,” “spotlighting diverse women composers over twelve centuries with music by and about pioneering women composers,” according to Stillman, “all but erased from history.”

Remember “concertino for Flute and Piano” by Cecile Chaminade?”

Probably not, because most of the works by early women composers have been lost or destroyed.

Schumann and Mendelssohn’s wives also composed music that was credited to their husbands.

Next Up: Remembrance, Resilience and Renewal

RIC’s Artist-in-Residence serves as the Artistic Director, pianist and curator of “Remembrance, Resilience and Renewal: Genocide Awareness through the Arts,” “a multidisciplinary program embracing the music, art, spoken word, and dance of four extraordinary and resilient cultures.

The event takes place during Genocide Awareness and Prevention Month on Sunday, April 28 at 2:30 p.m. at Sapinsley Hall in Rhode Island College’s Nazarian Hall.

Pre-registration is required. Admission is free. There is a suggested donation of $10 a person at the door.

Stillman has brought together 15 diverse multinational artists for the concert, including Cambodian Pinpeat musician Song Heng, a survivor of the Cambodian Genocide, Cambodian-American sculptor Alex Tum, Armenian—American soprano Anush Avetisyan, Armenian violinist Nune Melik, and Armenian painter her Khachatryan, who will create a work of art on stage during the musical performances.

Stillman will accompany members of the R.I. Philharmonic.