You’ve likely heard of food deserts — maybe you've even heard of news deserts. But classical music deserts? The New York City-based Piatigorsky Foundation has made it their mission to bring classical music to underserved communities, including in rural Idaho.
Pianist Richard Dowling has performed at prestigious venues around the world, including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. But he also has fond memories of playing in a lesser-known venue in Idaho:
“I remember playing in Wallace. We’ll be visiting that same venue again – a church in Wallace," Dowling says. "A big chunk of the population turned out for that concert.”
The group, including tenor Rodrigo Garciarroyo, will perform Gem State concerts March 19-23, playing in Boise, Salmon and Wallace. Dowling has played with the Piatigorsky Foundation for more than 20 years.
He says getting the chance to play classical music for people who don’t have access to a local symphony is rewarding work. Dowling notes these free and accessible concerts in small towns are just as important as classical performances at Carnegie Hall.
The Piatigorsky Foundation will also host two free concerts in Boise Monday and Tuesday. Learn more here.
Find reporter Frankie Barnhill on Twitter @FABarnhill
Copyright 2018 Boise State Public Radio
