Photo credit: Maynard Wallace

 

Additional photos available at:  https://www.prog4to.com/Drew-University-concert/

 

     On October 14 & 15, 2018, Slovak violin virtuoso Filip Pogady performed the Bruch Violin Concerto No. 1 with the New Jersey Festival Orchestra under the direction of Maestro David Wroe for the Orchestra's season opener. The October 14 concert took place at First United Methodist Church in Westfield, NJ, and the October 15 concert was performed at the Dorothy Young Concert Hall at Drew University in Madison, NJ. Filip's performance of the Bruch Concerto was dreamy and contemplative as well as passionate and powerful. Both performances elicited prolonged standing ovations from the audience, prompting Pogady to return to the stage with encores by Bach and Kreisler.

     After the Drew University performance, the Slovak community, together with NJFO Board members and patrons, proceeded to beautiful Mead Hall, where they enjoyed a reception in the pre-Civil War mansion featuring wine, cheese & fruit, as well as specially baked Slovak pastries. Guests mingled with friends both old and new and enjoyed the warm atmosphere. Filip Pogady and Maestro David Wroe joined the guests to mingle with fans and take photos. Sabina Sabados, President of SACC, gave a short speech to thank the concert organizers and introduced Filip Pogady, who likewise expressed gratitude and excitement over the opportunity to perform with the NJFO. Tanya Pulver, Treasurer of SACC, related the history of the organization of the concert, while Maestro David Wroe provided insight into the artistic process involved in putting the concert together. As the reception wound down, a small group of guests took Filip to dinner at a local restaurant. It was a wonderful day of beauty, music, and community.