In partnership with the Naumburg Foundation, SFCM presents the winner of the Naumburg Foundation's 2024 Cello Competition, Jonathan Swensen. 

This series is generously underwritten by Mr. Sin-Tung Chiu in memory of his parents Bella and P.P. Chiu and celebrates the family's long time friendship with Robert and Lucy Mann who led the Naumburg Foundation for more than 50 years.  Robert Mann was Sin-Tung's mentor and this concert honors their close friendship.

Program

Bent Sørensen: Farewell Fantasia for Solo Cello

Johann Sebastian Bach: Cello Suite No. 4 in E-flat Major
     I. Prélude
     II. Allemande
     III. Courante
     IV. Sarabande
     V. Bourrée I
     VI. Bourrée II
     VII. Gigue

Henri Dutilleux: Trois Strophes sur le nom de Sacher

-Intermission-

Zoltán Kodály: Sonata for Solo Cello in B Minor, Op. 8

Artists

Jonathan Swensen, cello

About the Walter W. Naumburg Foundation

The Walter W. Naumburg Foundation continues in the pursuit of ideals set out by Walter Naumburg. His desire to assist the young gifted musician in America has made possible a long-standing program of competitions and awards in solo and chamber music performance, composer recordings, conducting and commissions.

It was Mr. Naumburg's firm belief that such competitions were not only for the benefit of new stars, but very much for those talented young artists who would become prime movers in the development of the highest standards of musical excellence throughout America.

See here for the full history.

About the Chiu Family

The Chiu Family met Robert Mann and the Juilliard String Quartet in 1961 in Hong Kong during their maiden tour to the Far East. Robert and P. P. and Bella bonded immediately and this loving friendship lasted throughout their lives.

The Naumburg Foundation teamed up with the Chiu Family and Ruth Felt of San Francisco Performances to sponsor the first annual winner’s Debut recital in 1998 in San Francisco. It is gratifying to be part of the new collaboration between the Naumburg Foundation and SFCM.

On a personal note, Sin-Tung Chiu is forever grateful to Robert Mann for having been his mentor, coach and friend at The Juilliard School.