Final installment of jazz series coming to Xavier

By: Soondos Mulla-Ossman ~Staff Writer~ “I can’t believe the season just passed,” Polina Bespalko told the Newswire with a mix of emotions on Monday. The Music Series, in which accomplished musicians come to the Xavier stage to perform, is drawing to a close for the year. The final performance, as many anticipate, will go out with a swinging, melodic bang. As one of the most important figures in the jazz world for the past 20 years, Christian McBride has “one of the most extensive biographies,” Bespalko said. It’s so extensive, it doesn’t even fit into the program. To name two, … Continue reading Final installment of jazz series coming to Xavier

Music Series celebrates 40th anniversary this season

By: Nick McGill ~Staff Writer~ Polina Bespalko, director of the Xavier University Music Series, makes a point to organize and putting on several concerts each year. “(I am) proud to play a central role in the musical life of Cincinnati. Live music performance is a deeply rooted cultural tradition, and the Music Series is strongly committed to help it flourish in our community,” Bespalko said in her welcome letter to patrons. This upcoming season represents the 40th anniversary of the Music Series. “In a day and age where there are many challenges facing symphonies, music series and live performance in … Continue reading Music Series celebrates 40th anniversary this season

An interview with Dr. Polina Bespalko on her upcoming concert

By: Nick McGill ~Sports Editor~ Polina Bespalko is a member of the music faculty at Xavier University and is the director of the Xavier University Music Series. Originally from Russia, Bespalko will be giving a concert highlighting important Russian and Soviet composers on March 27 in the Werner Recital Hall at Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Newswire Sports Editor Nick McGill, a student of Bespalko’s, sat down with her and discussed the upcoming concert. PB: I graduated from CCM with my doctorate degree last year. And as a student for the doctorate degree you are required to do many, many recitals, … Continue reading An interview with Dr. Polina Bespalko on her upcoming concert