Travel with host, Mexico City Philharmonic chief conductor Scott Yoo, in this special mini-series taking viewers on a voyage of musical discovery for aficionados and neophytes alike.
Great Performances: Now Hear This airs Fridays, April 12- May 3, at 9 p.m. on WXXI-TV.
Each episode reveals the creative process behind a diverse range of classical music in both historic and modern-day periods. This season explores themes and stories of gifted young artists, virtuosos, and even Scott Yoo’s own experiences as a composer.
Rising Stars • April 12 Visit Juilliard Pre-College with Scott Yoo to play with some of tomorrow’s virtuosos and travel to Singapore to meet rising star, Chloe Chua, who reminds Yoo of the dedication and passion required to prepare for a professional career.
Virtuoso • April 19 Explore the work of two legendary virtuosos, Niccolò Paganini and Robert Johnson, along with stars of today, Augustin Hadelich and Keb’ Mo’. Joined by Cirque du Soleil acrobats, discover the secrets of being a virtuoso.
Old Friends • April 26 Explore how virtuosos become maestros and discover their guiding principles through host Scott Yoo’s long friendships with Grammy winner Yo-Yo Ma, pianist Richard Kogan and violinist Lynn Chang.
The Composer Is Yoo • May 3 Follow host Scott Yoo’s journey to compose a piece of music for the first time. Seeking counsel from other composers, Yoo revisits his heritage in search of ideas, performs landmark pieces for inspiration and ultimately tests his work in progress.
Photo: Scott Yoo • Provided by PBS