Need a soothing antidote to life’s daily stress? A free piano recital in Sisters could be the prefect cure. By JEFF SPRY
The public is invited to Reflections on the Composers, a classical evening of solo piano by talented young Sisters musician, Aaron Alfonso Petit, on Sunday, April 22, 6:30pm at Sisters Community Church. This special concert will feature selections from the masterful works of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Debussy, and more.
Admission is free, but donations of any size are graciously accepted. All monies raised will be used toward the purchase of an upgraded instrument for Petit from Classic Pianos of Portland. Light refreshments will follow the performance. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Appearing in his first public solo piano recital in Sisters, Petit’s hometown debut is not only an opportunity to absorb a stimulating session of elegant music, but is also a way for area arts lovers to help him realize his dream.
“In addition to a busy school schedule, Aaron practices for hours each day,” confides his mother, Shelley Dinsmore. “During the summer, the piano is his full-time companion, but unfortunately, he has rapidly outrun its nearly 40-year-old legs (and keys, pedals, hammers, and strings)!”
For two years, Petit has diligently labored toward his goal of purchasing a baby grand piano to see him through college and beyond. From snow shoveling to house cleaning and giving lessons, his perseverance in saving every dollar is paying off but he still needs help to achieve his goal.
Petit discovered his passion for classical music and performing arts at Sisters Christian Academy, where he completed sixth and seventh grades. At age 14, the young artist already has a growing list of awards and accomplishments. He was a 2011 gold medalist at Cascades Classical Music Foundation competition, and released his debut CD recording last year, “First Offerings.”
His stunning rise as a musician was accomplished under the guidance and support of instructors Peter Brownlee and Donna Moyer and he presently studies in the Peter Brownlee Studio in Bend. RSVP for the concert is appreciated, but not required. For more info, call Dinsmore at 541-549-7969.