Violinist

Taiwanese-Australian violinist Ray Chen redefines what it is to be a classical musician in the 21st century. His remarkable musicianship transmits to a global audience that is reflected in his engagements with the foremost orchestras and concert halls around the world. On May 15-16, he joins NACO to perform Felix Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor in Ray Chen, Mendelssohn & Mahler at Southam Hall.

Violin Masterclass with Ray Chen

University of Ottawa

Felix Mendelssohn took more than five years to complete his beautiful Violin Concerto in E minor, and it was a hit from its very first performance. Even still, Taiwanese Australian violinist Ray Chen’s fresh and fiery performance is a showstopper that might leave you wondering how his instrument doesn’t burst into flames from the energy he creates.

EPSG:4326

Ray Chen, Mendelssohn & Mahler

Southam Hall

Internationally acclaimed violinist Ray Chen performs a crowd-pleasing recital with pianist Julio Elizalde. Hailed by the Washington Post as “a phenomenal talent,” Chen showcases why he’s sought out to perform in concert halls globally.

Ray Chen

Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration, featuring the world-renowned violinist Ray Chen. This special performance, set against the backdrop of the iconic Orchestra Hall, promises to be a highlight of the musical season, taking place from Friday, December 6, to Sunday, December 8, 2024.

Under the baton of Music Director Jader Bignamini, the orchestra will bring to life a diverse and vibrant program. The evening will open with Carlos Simon's "Four Black American Dances," followed by Samuel Barber's poignant "Violin Concerto," performed by the exceptional Ray Chen. The concert will also feature selections from Tchaikovsky's beloved "The Nutcracker Suite," before taking a unique turn with Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's jazz-infused arrangement of the same, promising a blend of classical grace and swing-era cool that's not to be missed.

Jader Bignamini, celebrated for his infectious passion and artistic excellence, leads the orchestra with a deep connection to both the music and the musicians, ensuring a performance that resonates with energy and emotion. Ray Chen, known for redefining what it means to be a classical musician in the 21st century, brings his remarkable musicianship and dynamic presence to the stage, guaranteeing a rendition of Barber's Violin Concerto that will be both palpable and memorable.

This event is not just a concert but a celebration of music's power to unite and inspire. It's an invitation to experience the joy and depth of classical music, brought to life by some of the most talented artists of our time. Whether you're a lifelong classical music fan or looking for an introduction to the genre, this performance is sure to leave you moved and exhilarated.

Tickets are available now, with prices starting at a range accessible to all. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Ray Chen in what promises to be a spectacular set of performances at Orchestra Hall, a venue renowned for its acoustics and historic charm. Join us for a night of exquisite music, and let the melodies of Carlos Simon, Samuel Barber, Tchaikovsky, Duke Ellington, and Billy Strayhorn transport you.

Ellington & The Nutcracker

Orchestra Hall

Ray Chen plays Tchaikovsky’s beloved Violin Concerto, the first work the composer completed after his separation from his disastrous marriage and a piece he almost dedicated to his student – and likely lover and inspiration, Iosif Kotek. 120 years later, Michael Tilson Thomas lovingly set three of Walt Whitman poems about longing and belonging for baritone and orchestra. Leonard Bernstein’s star-crossed lovers close the program in an iconic love letter to New York and love itself.

Ray Chen

Violinist

Events

May 14, 2024

Violin Masterclass with Ray Chen · National Arts Centre Orchestra

15 - 16 May, 2024

Ray Chen, Mendelssohn & Mahler · National Arts Centre Orchestra

Oct 27, 2024

Ray Chen · Philharmonic Society of Orange County

6 - 8 Dec, 2024

Ellington & The Nutcracker · Detroit Symphony Orchestra

13 - 16 Mar, 2025

Teddy Abrams conducts Tchaikovsky, Tilson Thomas, and Bernstein with baritone Dashon Burton and Ray Chen, violin · Boston Symphony Orchestra

About

Ray Chen hasn't added a bio