Michael Huebner of The Birmingham News wrote an article about Julian Schwarz and his upcoming appearance on Saturday, January 16, 2010 at 8 pm with the Moscow State Radio Symphony. This is one of many appearances Julian will be making this year with the Symphony.

Huebner writes, "Whether that Russian spirit stayed with him will be put to the test Saturday when Schwarz solos in Tchaikovsky's "Rococo Variations" with the Moscow State Radio Symphony at the Alys Stephens Center. It will be the first of 15 appearances Schwarz will make with the touring orchestra, and Schwarz's first experience with a European orchestra."

To read the full article, CLICK HERE

As your local choice for restorations, repairs, and fine instrument sales, we at Rafael Carrabba Violins, would like to say thank you!

Come in and visit us during the Holiday Season. We have specials on CD's and strings. We have also have new cases from Bam and Musafia.

Rafael Carrabba Violins celebrates 25 years in business in 2010. Thank you for being a part of our success. May you have a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year!

The Violin shop will close Dec 24th at 3:00 pm and open again on Monday January 4th. While the shop will not be open, Rafael Carrabba is available to see customers on request. Email here or call the shop at 206-283-5566 for an appointment. Please leave a message, we will reach you as soon as possible.

photo by Darrell Peterson

The Icicle Creek Piano Trio is Ensemble-in-Residence at the Icicle Creek Music Center, a non-profit organization in Leavenworth, Washington. As well as offering year-round concerts in the Center’s picturesque Canyon Wren Concert Hall and an intensive International Chamber Music Festival and Institute each July, the artists maintain busy private studios and offer regular coaching sessions to local and visiting young ensembles.

The Icicle Creek Piano Trio, released a CD in 2008. The CD is available for purchase at Carrabba Violins, and through Icicle Creek Music Center and other fine retailers.

Writing about the The Trio's debut recording of Ravel and Schubert Piano Trios, Gramophone Magazine said, “The playing is warmly considered, meticulous in articulation and blend, and silken in sonority.”

The Strad Magazine wrote, “They catch all the subtle, shimmering shades...their reading is literal, free of mannerisms...”

As a customer or Rafael Carrabba Violins, you can read more about the center and the Trio by clicking on Customer Profiles.

Gerard Schwarz, image from www.kbaq.orgStarting Saturday, August 8th, single tickets for the 2009-2010 Seattle Symphony season go on sale. Honoring Gerard Schwarz and his 25 years with the Symphony, the season is an impressive one. Major works by Mahler, Strauss and in addition film, dance, and pop music are all part of the mix. To read more and see the line up go to: Seattle Symphony

Beginning this Monday, July 6th, the Seattle Chamber Music Society hosts concerts through the Summer. At locations in Seattle and the Eastside, the series of concerts includes Principals of the Cleveland Orchestra, Detroit Symphony, NY Philharmonic, San Diego Symphony (to name a few) and soloists from around the globe. It's an impressive line-up. Monday's recital and concert are at St. Nicholas Hall, Lakeside School, 1450 First Ave NE, Seattle.

We have brochures in the shop of the full Summer schedule. You are welcome to stop in and pick one up - they are on the front counter. You can also find out more at : www.seattlechambermusic.org or calling 206-283-8808.