Keys Across America with Mackenzie Melemed

Description

Keys Across America explores the rich diversity of American piano music, from the lyricism of Amy Beach and Edward MacDowell to the bold voices of Florence Price, Aaron Copland, Ned Rorem, and Louis Moreau Gottschalk. At the heart of the recital is a tribute to composers of the Second New England School—Amy Beach, Edward MacDowell, and Arthur Foote—whose music helped shape a distinctly American musical identity. As a Worcester County native, it is especially meaningful to celebrate New England's enduring contribution to our nation's musical heritage. The program also features two recently commissioned works by Laura Kaminsky and Avner Dorman. Throughout the performance, Melemed will share brief commentary from the stage, offering historical context and stories behind the music to create an engaging concert experience in his signature style. Launched in 2025, Keys Across America continues through the 2027–28 season, and will reach more than 50 cities in over 30 states. Worcester County native Mackenzie Melemed has established an international career distinguished by performances of imagination, depth, and virtuosity. Recipient of the 2022 Avery Fisher Career Grant, he has appeared as soloist with orchestras including The Philadelphia Orchestra and the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, and has performed in leading concert halls and festivals throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. A graduate of The Juilliard School, where he studied with Robert McDonald and Emanuel Ax, Melemed is a Steinway Artist. He has also performed at the White House and is increasingly recognized for thoughtful programming that pairs beloved repertoire with lesser-known works. Now based in Finland, he continues to perform internationally while maintaining close ties to New England. His current Keys Across America tour reflects his exploration of the rich and varied tradition of American piano music.