Czech string quartet performs free concert at Monroe-Woodbury

Central Valley - The world-famous Skampa Quartet from Prague performed a free concert for more than 500 Monroe-Woodbury string students at M-W high school on Monday, March 26. Skampa, now at the beginning of its 2007 U.S. tour, has performed all over the world to rave reviews and numerous awards. The event, arranged for by M-W School Board member Theresa Budich, provided the M-W music students who attended a rare opportunity to see, hear and ask questions of this seasoned, renowned professional ensemble. During the group’s performance, M-W senior Madeline Huberth also performed a solo Bach selection on her cello. “Having them come and play for us was a great opportunity,” said Huberth, this year’s principal cellist of National Association for Music Education’s All-Eastern Honors Orchestra. “Their music was both educational and inspiring.” Huberth, who has also performed solos with the Hudson Valley Philharmonic and the Tanglewood Festival Orchestra, added: “They played cohesively and with great energy. I was very honored to share the stage with a quartet such as theirs. I would love to see them perform again.” After Skampa concluded its performance, cellist Lukas Polak offered Huberth the opportunity to play his priceless cello, crafted in 1750. That instrument is so valuable that the musician purchases an airline seat just for his instrument, rather than have it travel in the baggage bay. This story was provided by Bob Curtis.