World-Famous Violinists Featured

In continuation with Houghton's widely anticipated Artist Series, the College will feature violinist Arnaud Sussmann and pianist Michael Brown tonight.

Native born in France and holding degrees from The Julliard School, Sussmann has quickly gained acclaim throughout the world. He has performed in several countries as both a solo artist and part of a chamber group. His career was kick-started in 2009 when he was awarded the Avery Fisher Career Grant, and since then he has been asked to perform in such prestigious venues as Carnegie Hall, The Louvre, and the Smithsonian Museum. Sussmann's passionate performances on the violin have enraptured audiences all across the globe and have inspired fawning critics to write rave reviews. His own particular brand of dark, brooding good looks that strike audiences as he bends lovingly over his violin certainly don't hurt either. The Times Herald Record described one of Sussmann's performances: "His resonant bowing soared and sang until a long cadenza of trembling arpeggios and glissandos brought the movement to a forceful close."

Brown, too, is a major talent, whose piano playing has been described as "vividly characterized and rhythmically free-spirited" by The New York Times. He too has performed in Carnegie Hall, as well as Avery Fisher Hall. He also matches Sussmann in terms of education, as a graduate of The Julliard School. Brown has been lauded as a performer with great passion and confidence -- characteristics that set him apart from his fellow performers. He also holds the title of composer; many of his works have been performed by renowned symphonies in various countries. A hugely accomplished performer and composer, Brown's love and devotion to music is rarely rivaled.

Sussmann and Brown performing together is certainly a dynamic and promising combination. Though both are fairly young, Sussmann and Brown possess talent that is unrivaled by musicians in their age group, and together, their playing weaves a powerful, gorgeous tapestry of sound that would be a shame to miss.

Their upcoming Houghton performance will cost $15 and take place at 8 tonight in the Wesley Chapel. Student tickets are available today during meal times for free at the base of the stairs in the Campus Center, and can be acquired at the Information Desk in between meal times. Staff and faculty should contact the Music Office in order to receive their tickets. Tickets will not be available for free at the door.