Postcards From
Near and Far

September 19, 2024

Old Thompson Barn
River Valley Ranch

Through words, memories, and music, we travel to different parts of the world and moments of life.

Postcards carry memories, footprints of travels, and moments of awe, joy, and nostalgia. We send and receive postcards from the ends of earth, framing the particular time and space and experience. In this program we travel to different parts of the world, experiencing music from Finland, Sweden, Bulgaria, and music of Karmanov, Rachmaninoff, Mahler, and Brahms. We share with you postcards sent and received, some delightful and some poignant, words that capture those unparalleled moments that are indeed the precious collection of life.

Meet the Cast

MinTze Wu

Creator, producer, visionary, founder of BenFeng Music Productions, featured at the National Concert Hall and National Opera House of Taiwan.

artistic director, violin

Chieh-Fan Yiu

Dr. Chieh-Fan Yiu is a world-renowned violist celebrated for his exceptional talent and versatility. A triple-prize winner of the Lionel Tertis Competition.

viola

Michael Graham

Michael Graham is a highly accomplished cellist with extensive experience performing with renowned musicians and orchestras, acclaim for his expressive and proficient playing.

cello

Chih-Long Hu

Chih-Long Hu is a world-renowned pianist and educator. With numerous international awards and a distinguished performance career, he has captivated audiences worldwide.

piano

Natalie Spears headshot

Natalie Spears

Natalie Spears is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose music explores themes of nature, humanity, and loss. Spears has captivated audiences with her unique blend of traditional and contemporary music.

vocals

Camille Moore

Born in Colorado, Camille spent 5 years living and connecting with her roots in Taiwan. She has participated in Cloudgate Dance Studio, BenFeng Productions, Bonedale Flashmob, Cirque de Sopris, and SOL Theatre.

narrator

Program

An evening of music and words from around the world in true BenFeng style, featuring classical, folk, and traditional music.

Karmanov - Innerlichkeit

Tom Waits - Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis

Natalie Spears - Hymn of Wild Things

Maamo / Bučimiš / Bergfäst

Rachmaninoff - Cello Sonata in G minor III. Andante

Mahler - Adagietto

Johannes Brahms - Piano Quartet in A Major Op.26