Krannert Center Debut Artist: Wilson Poffenberger, saxophone

Wilson Poffenberger, saxophone
Casey Gene Dierlam, piano

Each year, student nominees from the University of Illinois School of Music audition for Krannert Center’s Debut Artist competition. As the winner of this year's competition, saxophonist Wilson Poffenberger will present a recital on the Foellinger Great Hall stage to launch his professional career. This performance presents an opportunity to experience the emerging artistry of a rising young musician and see history in the making.

Ravel: Ma Mère l’Oye (arr. Poffenberger)
Schmitt: Légende, Op. 66
Fauré: Après un rêve (arr. Poffenberger)

20-minute intermission

Bach: Violin Partita No. 2 in D Minor (arr. Poffenberger)
Denisov: Sonate
Decruck: Sonate en Ut#

Each Krannert Center Debut Artist is featured on the Sunday Salon Series, a performance setting specifically devoted to the presentation of emerging young artists in which an intimate atmosphere is created by seating audience members onstage with the performers. This powerful early career boost beautifully symbolizes Krannert Center’s threefold mission of education, research, and public engagement. Previous winners include singers and instrumentalists who now teach and perform throughout the world, including the university’s own Rochelle Sennet and Ollie Watts Davis.

This year’s Debut Artist will perform as part of Come Home to Krannert Center: A 50th-Anniversary Weekend. Make your plans now and help spread the word for an exciting anniversary celebration April 12-14, 2019.

Salon-style performances offer a close connection between artists and guests, as audience members sit in six rows of seats on stage with the performer. Light refreshments are served before and after the performance. Stage seating for this performance is full.

Balcony tickets (without refreshments) are still available.