Piano Masterclass with Jon Nakamatsu Armstrong Concert Hall 2026 Dabinett/McKelway Performance A consummate musician recognized for her grace, subtlety and brilliance, acclaimed pianist Orli Shaham has earned praise from critics around the world for her expressive artistry and exceptional musicianship. The New York Times has called her a “brilliant pianist,” The Chicago Tribune hailed her as “a first-rate Mozartean,” and The Guardian described her performance at the BBC Proms as “perfection.” Renowned for bringing both technical mastery and profound musical insight to the stage, Shaham is celebrated as one of the leading pianists of her generation. An internationally sought-after soloist, recitalist and chamber musician, Shaham has appeared with many of the world’s foremost orchestras, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra and BBC Symphony Orchestra. Equally at home in recital, she has performed in major concert halls and festivals across North America, Europe and Asia, captivating audiences with programs that combine intellectual depth, warmth and virtuosity. The afternoon’s program opens with a curated selection of works by Clara Schumann, celebrating the artistry and enduring legacy of one of the nineteenth century’s most influential pianists and composers, followed by a captivating journey through Romantic masterworks and contemporary piano literature. Frédéric Chopin’s luminous Berceuse, intimate Nocturne in B Major and exuberant Ballade No. 3 showcase the composer’s unparalleled gift for lyricism, elegance and poetic expression. Contrasting these beloved masterpieces are John Adams’ mesmerizing China Gates, with its shimmering minimalist textures, and Sarah Kirkland Snider’s evocative The Currents, a contemporary work of striking emotional depth and atmospheric beauty. Together, these selections create a compelling exploration of the piano’s expressive possibilities, weaving together tradition and innovation in a recital of remarkable color, imagination and artistry. Beyond the concert stage, Shaham is a dedicated educator and advocate for music engagement. She serves on the faculty of The Juilliard School, is co-host and creative for the nationally syndicated radio program From the Top and founded the interactive children’s concert series Orli Shaham’s Bach Yard. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of today’s most distinguished pianists in an evening of extraordinary artistry and musical expression. This performance is made possible by the Laura N. Dabinett and Russell B. McKelway World of the Piano Fund, established in 2015 in commemoration of the wedding anniversary of Laura N. Dabinett and Russell B. McKelway. Program Clara SchumannThree Preludes and Fugues, op. 16Clara SchumannQuatre Pièces caractéristiques, op. 5Clara SchumannScherzo No. 1 in D Minor, op. 10Clara SchumannTrois Romances, op. 11Clara SchumannDrei Romanzen, op. 21Clara SchumannRomanze in B Minor, WoOFrédéric ChopinBerceuse, op. 57John AdamsChina Gates for Solo PianoSarah Kirkland SniderThe CurrentsFrédéric ChopinNocturne in B Major, op. 62, no. 1Frédéric ChopinBallade No. 3 in A-flat Major, op. 47 Digital Program Shenandoah Conservatory uses digital programs for all performances. In addition to their engaging and accessible design, digital programs are cost effective, environmentally friendly and enable us to create and update our programs more efficiently, which means we can focus our resources on the performances you love! View our digital programs by clicking the button above, scanning the QR code in our venue or texting PROGRAM to (540) 307-2336 at the performance. [Note: Digital programs are best viewed on your mobile or tablet device.] View Digital Program Pre-concert Talk Sunday, September 20 at 1:30PM | Armstrong Concert Hall Join us on the Sunday of each World of the Piano performance at 1:30PM in Armstrong Concert Hall for a Pre-concert Talk! Learn about Orli Shaham’s program from Shenandoah Conservatory faculty and special guests. Piano Masterclass Monday, September 21 at 9:15AM | Armstrong Concert Hall Observe Orli Shaham as she works with Shenandoah Conservatory piano students. Limited seating is open to the public for quiet observation. Please arrive by 9AM. Join the Piano Society Join Friends of the Conservatory at the Ally level or above and designate your gift to World of the Piano to become a member of our Piano Society! In addition to being listed in each World of the Piano program, members receive all Ally benefits plus access to exclusive Piano Society events. Join the Piano Society