Mari and Håkon Samuelsen are way ahead of schedule on their path to international stardom. They perform at The Norwegian Seamen's Church on June 4 and at Carnegie Hall on June 5.
The 19-year-old violinist Mari and her cello-playing brother have let music play center stage in their lives since they were toddlers. Today, their unique skills both together and separately are in high demand, not only in their native Norway but also abroad. The young talents are entering prestigious Carnegie Hall on June 5. to capture the audience with their troika.
Fine instruments are required to go with these youngsters’ formidable skills. Mari plays a fine Lorenzo Storioni violin from 1790, on loan from the Norwegian institution Snefonn. Håkon plays a fine Francesco Ruggieri cello from 1688, on loan from the Sveaas Foundation in Oslo.
Anyone may wonder how the siblings have managed to reach such a high level. Mari Samuelsen received classes from famed Norwegian violinist Arve Tellefsen from she was four until ten years of age. Today she is the student of legendary Russian professor Zachar Bron. Håkon Samuelsen, whose skills on the cello were recognized at a very early stage, now receives the exclusive tutoring of Swedish master cellist Frans Helmerson.
The siblings have performed as soloists with an impressive and ever-increasing group of acclaimed musicians and orchestras. The year 2005 will add new venues and collaborators to that list. The first highlight is their special performance in Carnegie Hall. Mari Samuelsen will then perform with the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra in October.
Performances:
The Passion of Music at The Norwegian Seamen's Church
Donation: $5.
When: Saturday, June 4 at 4 pm
Where: The Norwegian Seamen’s Church, 317 East 52nd Street, NYC
Info: (212) 319-0370
Where: Zankel Hall in Carnegie Hall on 57th Street & 7th Avenue, NYC
When: Sunday, June 5 at 3 pm
Info: (212) 247-7800