Janoska Ensemble Captivates Audience with Exceptional Performance
Part of Sands Performing Arts Program
World-famous ensemble also conducts inspiring masterclass to ignite music talents
(Macao, Aug 21, 2023) – Sands China Ltd. hosted the much-awaited The Janoska Ensemble Macao 2023 performance Saturday at The Parisian Theatre as part of the Sands Performing Arts Program, where the internationally renowned ensemble's Macao debut left the audience enchanted with their skilled and unique improvisation techniques. In addition, Sands China held an exclusive masterclass for music enthusiasts from Macao and Hong Kong, offering them a rare opportunity to learn from the master musicians.
Hailing from Vienna, the Janoska Ensemble is a celebrated family quartet known for their distinctive and contemporary interpretations of classical music. Comprising violinists Ondrej Janoska and Roman Janoska, pianist František Janoska, and double bass player Julius Darvas, these virtuosic musicians captivate audiences worldwide with their profound shows that infuse classical music with a modern flair. The ensemble performs over 100 shows annually across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Their Macao tour, part of the ensemble's The Big B's World Tour, showcased music from their latest album, "The Big B's," which pays tribute to the great 'B' composers, including Bach, Brahms, Beethoven and even The Beatles – all known for a certain level of improvisation.
Dr. Wilfred Wong, president of Sands China Ltd., said: "We are delighted at the opportunity to bring acclaimed musicians like the Janoska Ensemble to Macao, presenting yet another remarkable performance following the staging of the timeless Cantonese opera Floral Princess. With this show, we aim to exemplify the fundamental philosophy of the Sands Performing Arts Program and enhance Macao's cultural landscape through premier world-class performances, thereby reinforcing Macao's distinctive position as a global hub for cultural exchange. Simultaneously, we strive to enrich the non-gaming experiences for our residents and visitors.
"Furthermore, we are proud to offer masterclasses on occasions such as this, which provide participants with opportunities to interact closely with incredibly talented and accomplished individuals, offering them inspirational and educational experiences and contributing to the cultivation of a vibrant music community. We saw an overwhelming response to both the performance and the masterclass, and we are committed to continuing our efforts in facilitating cultural exchange and propelling the city's cultural development. By doing so, we aim to promote Macao's international image as a cultural city."
The quartet brought Saturday's show to a climax with their interpretation of "Shanghai Bund." The performance also featured guest pianist Niu Niu, the youngest laureate of the 2010 PRIX Montblanc in Berlin, who performed "Souvenir pour Elise."
Vincent Liauw, director of Janoska Ensemble Macao 2023, said: "With their impressive improvisation, the talented ensemble has been receiving enthusiastic responses from audiences worldwide. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring their music to Macao and present a brand-new interpretation of the classic song 'Shanghai Bund' by the late Hong Kong pop music maestro, Joseph Koo, in collaboration with numerous special guests during the concert. Furthermore, we are delighted promote exchange between the orchestra and young music enthusiasts from Hong Kong and Macao through the masterclass. We expect that it will encourage the younger generation to pursue their passion for music and strive for greater achievements in their musical journey."
The Janoska Ensemble Masterclass
Ahead of Saturday's performance, Sands China organised a masterclass with the ensemble Friday at The Parisian Theatre, which gave participants from Macao and Hong Kong a unique opportunity to learn from the musicians, aimed at igniting inspiration within the music community.
Eighteen young Macao and Hong Kong music enthusiasts, aged 6-19, focusing on piano, violin, viola, and cello, attended the masterclass. They were privileged to receive personalised guidance from the ensemble, who generously shared their expertise and insights after listening to the participants' performances. The interactive masterclass also featured the collective improvisation for which the Janoska Ensemble is renowned, creating an immersive and collaborative experience.
Talent-nurturing initiatives like masterclasses are a significant part of Sands China's dedication to social causes and community involvement. The company's community work is part of Sands Cares, the global corporate citizenship programme of parent company Las Vegas Sands Corp. Sands China is committed to continually providing enriching experiences like the Janoska Ensemble Masterclass for the local community in the future.
As part of the Sands Performing Arts Program, The Janoska Ensemble Macao 2023 underscores the company's aspirations to utilise its world-class venues to stage nationally and internationally acclaimed shows and develop a diverse platform for performing arts projects in Macao. Coming up in the programme's schedule this year is the enthralling dance drama, Poetic Dance: The Journey of a Legendary Landscape Painting.
Photo caption: Guests including Cheong Lai San (ninth from left), acting president of the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macao SAR Government; Dr. Wilfred Wong (eleventh from left), president of Sands China Ltd.; Yin Rutao (ninth from right), deputy director-general of the Department of Publicity and Culture of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao SAR; and Cheng Wai Tong (tenth from right), acting director of the Macao Government Tourism Office, gather together with the musicians and crew of The Janoska Ensemble Macao 2023 performance, as well as Sands China management team members, on stage after the show at The Parisian Theatre Saturday.
