Canadian pianist-turned-international-star Ian Parker comes to the Surrey stage next weekend.
Born and raised in Vancouver, schooled at Juilliard in New York and now performing around the globe, Parker brings his passion and energy to Surrey for one night only, Feb. 11.
Presented by the Surrey City Orchestra, conducted by Calvin Dyck, Parker will play one of his all-time favourites, Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue, a combination of jazz and classical music considered a musical portrait of New York City.
"Rhapsody in Blue is so passionate," says Parker. "Every emotion is in it. As I get older, I sometimes feel differently about various passages. It is thrilling and exciting with moments of beauty. It takes piano playing to a different level of richness."
He remembers the song being the first he ever played with an orchestra. He was 16 years old at the time.
Since then, he has played Rhapsody as his debut with most of the prominent symphony orchestras from around the world.
Parker will be sharing the spotlight with guest artists including harpist Maria Whelton, flutist Paolo Bortolussi and French horn player Andrew Clark.
Surrey City Orchestra presents Ian Parker, pianist, on Feb. 11, 7 p.m. at the Surrey Arts Centre, 13750 88 Ave. Tickets ($15-25) available by calling 604-501-5566 or at tickets.surrey.ca