In this inventive program, cellist Nora Willauer and pianist Marlene McCarthy explore the sparks of creativity born from close artistic relationships in the 20th century. From the youthful brilliance of Benjamin Britten’s First Cello Suite to the many colors of Maurice Ravel’s Miroirs, and Sonata for Cello and Piano by Dutch composer Henriëtte Bosmans, the duo invites listeners into the space where music and human connection intertwine.

Nora says each piece in their Midday Music program carries “a spicy compositional history.” Through storytelling between pieces, Nora and Marlene lay out how these masterpieces emerged from artistic friendships, love, and collaboration. A rich hour of music and discovery awaits.