Eastern Echoes 2025 - Edition II

This concert is a rare opportunity to experience the classical musical traditions of Romania and the Republic of Moldova in London.

The carefully curated program presents a blend of lyrical ballads, vibrant dances, and folkloric elements, offering a profound immersion into the rich musical heritage of Romania and Moldova.

Each composition reflects the distinct cultural and historical influences that have shaped the music of these regions—from Enescu’s haunting melodies to Bartók’s energetic rhythms.

The program will feature works by:
Ștefan Neaga, Boris Dubosarschi, Ciprian Porumbescu, Paul Constantinescu, Zlata Tcaci, Grigoraș Dinicu, George Enescu, Mieczysław Weinberg.

ABOUT THE MUSICIANS

Together, Marcel Lazăr and Dan-Iulian Drutac are not only performers but also passionate advocates of their homeland’s cultural heritage. Their collaboration has been the driving force behind the Moldo Crescendo Festival, a chamber music initiative that has successfully brought classical music to diverse audiences across Moldova and Romania.

Marcel Lazăr, Piano
Described as a musician deeply committed to making classical music accessible to broader audiences, Marcel Lazăr began his formal music education at the “Ciprian Porumbescu” Music High School in Chișinău. His studies continued at the “Gheorghe Dima” Academy of Music in Cluj-Napoca, followed by an Erasmus scholarship at the Mozarteum in Salzburg. Marcel holds a master’s degree from the National University of Music in Bucharest and recently completed advanced studies in chamber music at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna. His performances—whether solo, with orchestras, or in chamber ensembles—are marked by his dedication to creating an engaging and captivating experience for his audiences.

Dan-Iulian Drutac, Violin
Dan began his musical journey at the age of seven. At just sixteen, he won the Whitgift International Music Competition, earning a full scholarship to study in London at Whitgift School. He later pursued studies at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, where he was mentored by David Takeno.

He made his London debut in 2015 at the Royal Festival Hall, performing with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in a highly acclaimed appearance. Since then, he has collaborated with prestigious British ensembles such as the BBC Concert Orchestra, the Hallé Orchestra, Sinfonia of London, and the Chromatica Orchestra.

Between 2021 and 2023, he refined his craft at the Reina Sofía School of Music in Madrid under the guidance of Professor Zakhar Bron. At the same time, as a member of the Fitzroy Quartet, he toured extensively across the UK and Europe, strengthening his reputation as a versatile and accomplished violinist.

The activities take place within the framework of the Program for Supporting Cultural and Educational Initiatives in the Diaspora, part of the Diaspora Engagement Hub (DEH), with financial support from the state budget of the Republic of Moldova.