"Throwback with a Twist" Andy & Friends Chamber Program I

Doors at 7:00 PM Show at 7:30 PM 

Pianist Andy Armstrong is joined by the electrifying violinist Geneva Lewis for an evening that begins with deep reverence for the classical tradition and ends with a joyful, genre-blurring celebration of classical music. Described by Andy as a “throwback” to the great serious violin sonatas, the first half of the program features Ravel’s only sonata for violin and piano, known for its ethereal elegance and a signature middle movement infused with early blues influences. Ravel’s admiration for American music—especially jazz and blues—shaped the piece, and his artistic friendship with George Gershwin creates an audible dialogue across the program.

Then, in Andy’s words, the second half is where “we let our hair down.” Think of it like dessert after a fine meal, contrasting yet complementary. The set opens with Gershwin’s Three Preludes, a bluesy and virtuosic piano solo played by Andy, followed by Geneva’s captivating performance of Reena Esmail’s Darshan – Charukeshi—a meditative, deeply evocative piece rooted in Indian classical traditions. “The way Geneva plays this piece,” Andy says, “it transports you to an ashram, guided by the scent of incense and her masterful narrative arc.”

From there, another program highlight is the emotion-driven Amy Beach’s Romance—a sweeping, romantic miniature by one of America’s great 19th-century composers. Picture a passionate love letter being written and rewritten in real time.

The second half of the concert will include a fiery and fun tour de force: the Suite from Porgy and Bess arranged by legendary violinist Jascha Heifetz. This dazzling set of Gershwin classics is “almost unplayable,” Andy jokes—but Geneva takes on the challenge with grace, grit, and a grin. Expect favorites like Summertime, It Ain’t Necessarily So, and Bess, You Is My Woman Now, delivered with brilliance and heart.

Expect laughter, sonic fireworks, and world-class music when you join Andy and the phenomenal Geneva Lewis for an unforgettable night of Andy & Friends. Read more about the performers and see the full program here.