Gifts from the darkness

An extraordinary occasion where classical piano takes center stage.

March 16, 2024

Berkeley, CA

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Fanny Hensel was the older sister of the famous Felix Mendelssohn. And when the German philosopher Goethe met the Mendelssohn siblings, he thought Fanny was more talented than Felix. But her family pressured her to keep her gifts under wraps to preserve their status as part of the gilded circle of Berlin’s elite.

More than two centuries later there are still challenges that keep artistic voices silent.

Rebecca Bogart was a rising star on the San Francisco Bay Area classical scene, until a surprise breast cancer diagnosis forced her to stop her music making. By necessity she focused inward to deal with the emotional and financial darkness of cancer treatment.

After almost a decade, she entered a recording competition on a whim, and won first prize: a performance at Carnegie Hall. Catapulted back into the saddle, she reconnected with her calling.

And now she is ready to share with you a moving program of the gifts to be found from facing darkness.

The program

First Half

The first half will shine a light on unjustly neglected works by composers Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel and Clara Schumann.

Second Half

Beautiful melody and consummate craft will continue with the second half’s focus on the inimitable Nocturnes of Frederic Chopin. His portrayal of the journey from the depths of despair to the peace and joy to be found within have made him a favorite composer for music lovers worldwide.

The Venue

You’ll hear this inspirational music in a secret East Bay gem, the Berkeley Piano Club. Designed by the man who later created the Hollywood Bowl, this intimate recital space features a resonant acoustic, period charm, and a fantastic golden age Steinway concert grand.

GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC. BUY YOUR TICKET NOW TO BE SURE YOU GET A SEAT.

(Tickets available online only – no tickets will be sold at the door. All purchases fully refundable until March 1st, 2024.)

Patron: $100 (15 available)
Keyboard view
Front 1/3 of hall
Preconcert 90 minute seminar on the composers and works.
Festive reception

Supporter: $70 (20 available)
Keyboard view
Festive reception

Music lover: $40 (45 available)
Festive reception

More about the artist