The Live Music Project considers Mozart's words and music at Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts | Press Releases

The Live Music Project, an informal, conductor-less ensemble in residency at Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, will consider Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's intriguing life and work in "The Letters and Music of Mozart" on Friday, April 15, at 8 p.m. at the Quick Center.

The program features a mix of correspondence to and from Mozart and pieces written at different stages of his life, offering a full portrait of his extraordinary life. The ensemble will play sections of some of its favorite Mozart compositions, including selections from the ninth piano concerto, the first and 25th symphonies and his "Requiem." Parts of "The Marriage of Figaro" and the lesser-known opera "Idomeneo" will also be featured.

The concert will also include dramatic readings of letters to and from the master written from the time he first appeared on the scene as a child prodigy to his tragic death. Sometimes humorous, sometimes poignant, the letters help paint a fascinating portrait of this misunderstood genius.

Founded by violinist Netta Hadari and composer Daniel Smith, in conjunction with the Quick Center, The Live Music Project aims to change the way audiences think about chamber music. Now in its second season, the group includes some of the region's top musicians, offering exciting concerts in a friendly environment with an emphasis on interaction with the audience. The ensemble tackles both classical and contemporary works of all kinds, sometimes featuring world premieres of compositions by Smith, who also provides music for and directs many of the Quick Center's popular live radio dramas.

The April 15 program is the Live Music Project's final concert of the 2004-05 season. Plans for the 2005-06 season include programs on music inspired by Shakespeare, a family concert featuring mythology and music and a program celebrating American composers. The season opens with "The Devil and the Violin," featuring the music of Paganini and Tartini and a spooky story by H.P. Lovecraft.

Tickets are $25. For tickets, call the Quick Center box office at (203) 254-4010 or toll free at 1-877-ARTS-396. For more information, visit the website, www.quickcenter.com.