A near full house got a sampling of classical music by locals, although Cole Knutson plans more performances in the near future.
Knutson, a classically trained musician, presented the first concert of his summer recital series at St. Joseph Calasanctius Parish in North Battleford on June 9.
The theme of the show was Ars Longa, Vita Brevis, which translates to “art is long, life is short.”
Knutson played piano music by composers Edvard Grieg, Franz Schubert, Joseph Haydn and Astor Piazzaolla.
Knutson, Zaide Masich and Jeanny Jung also performed music as a trio.
Knutson will be attending the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, England. He wrote in an email to the News-Optimist he has managed to pull together funds for a year, and possibly half of the second year, including through a fundraising effort in the community. He could also receive more funding once in London from grants and scholarships.
Knutson was in the News-Optimist recently, telling a story about getting struck by a vehicle while studying in Germany, and speaking of recovering from a double concussion.
He added the concert was his first solo piano performance since coming home after the accident.
In August, more performances are planned, in the form of a piano trio recital again featuring Jung and Masich, and an August performance with Knutson and Canadian baritone Jonah Spungin, in which the two are to perform an evening of English art songs and German lieder.
The Catholic Women’s League hosted the event.
