Chicago Classical Music

Artists and Guests of the Grant Park Orchestra
Friday, November 17, at 7:30 p.m.
Preston Bradley Hall, Chicago Cultural Center
78 East Washington Street downtown 

Every once and a while something happens that brings people together in a special way.  This summer we all were saddened to learn that Cristina Purje, our delightful Grant Park Music Festival intern and colleague, was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of adrenal cancer. The 26-year-old violinist, a Romanian citizen who came to the US to pursue her music education, does not have health insurance and does not qualify for public aid.

Violinists Laura Miller and Michael Shelton, both musicians with the Grant Park Orchestra, stepped up to the plate and decided to organize a benefit concert for Cristina. With the assistance of the Grant Park Music Festival staff, the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and many, many others, a roster of the finest area musicians (and several from out of town, including Principal Conductor Carlos Kalmar) was assembled. 

The rehearsal today was jam packed with fun, colorful and moving repertory and went off without a hitch.  Everyone onstage and backstage, including stage hands and administrative staff, is donating his or her time and expertise for Cristina.  The atmosphere was warm and wonderful, and people really seemed pleased to be able to do something to help a friend in need.

All monies donated at the concert will go directly to Cristina to help offset her considerable medical and living expenses.

The free benefit concert for Cristina Purje will be held tomorrow, Friday, November 17, at 7:30 p.m. in the Preston Bradley Hall at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 East Washington Street. 

Program:  SMETANA: Bartered Bride Overture; VIVALDI: Concerto for 4 Violins in b minor; DVORAK: Slavonic Dances, Op. 46; FAURE: Pavane; BRAHMS: Hungarian Dances, #5 and 6.

Donations will be gratefully accepted.  Note: checks only - no cash.   Minimum suggested amount $50.  Checks should be made out to the Grant Park Orchestra Members Committee.

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