UGA Presents welcomes the acclaimed Sphinx Virtuosi to Ramsey Concert Hall Tuesday, February 21 at 7:30 p.m., joined by internationally celebrated violinist Randall Goosby. Presented as part of the UGA Presents 30th anniversary season, Visions of Peace is a powerful and timely program exploring themes of resilience, reflection, and shared humanity through music spanning cultures, generations, and musical traditions.
Sphinx Virtuosi is a self-conducted chamber orchestra comprised of 18 of the nation’s finest Black and Latino string players. It serves as the flagship ensemble of the Sphinx Organization, the leading nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the arts. Praised by The New York Times for its “propulsive, richly hued” performances and described as “more essential at this moment than ever,” the ensemble is widely recognized for its artistic excellence, innovative programming, and cultural leadership.
The evening’s program brings together works by composers whose voices reflect both historical depth and contemporary urgency. The concert opens with José White Lafitte’s lyrical La Bella Cubana, followed by selections from Clarice Assad’s vibrant Impressions and Jessie Montgomery’s luminous Chemiluminescence. Violinist Randall Goosby takes center stage in William Grant Still’s Suite for Violin and String Orchestra, a deeply personal work inspired by sculptures of the Harlem Renaissance — and arranged for the ensemble by Goosby himself.
After intermission, the ensemble presents Visions of Peace by Sphinx Virtuosi member Quenton Blache, a co-commissioned work that gives the program its title and serves as its emotional core. The evening concludes with Rubén Rengel’s gripping string orchestra arrangement of Prokofiev’s Piano Sonata No. 7, “Stalingrad,” and Manuel Ponce’s beloved Estrellita, offering moments of both intensity and tenderness.
RANDALL GOOSBY
Signed exclusively to Decca Classics, Goosby is one of today’s most compelling young violinists, acclaimed for his expressive musicianship and commitment to expanding the classical canon. A former Sphinx Competition First Prize winner, Goosby has appeared with many of the world’s leading orchestras and is deeply engaged in education and community outreach. His collaboration with Sphinx Virtuosi reflects a shared mission to inspire connection and broaden access to classical music.
PERFORMANCE TALK
Join us for a free pre-performance talk by members of the ensemble in Hodgson Concert Hall from 6:45-7:15 p.m.
Support for this performance is provided by John A. Maltese. UGA Presents is the University of Georgia’s performing arts series, celebrating 30 years of bringing world-class professional artists and transformative cultural experiences to Athens.
BUYING TICKETS IS EASY
Securing tickets for UGA Presents performances couldn’t be easier. There are three ways to choose from:
- Purchase tickets online 24/7 here.
- Call the Performing Arts Center Box Office at (706) 542-4400, Mon.-Fri., 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
- Visit the UGA Performing Arts Center Box Office, Mon.-Fri., 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (5 minute parking is available in the drop off circle at the Performing Arts Center for purchasing or picking up tickets.)
You may also create your own series of three or more performances (10% off). UGA Presents single tickets start at just $30 with promo code PAC30 and UGA student tickets are $15. Information about accessibility and venue amenities is available on the PAC website. Parking is free.
(Photo: Scott Jackson)
