On June 1st 2025 we presented a stellar ensemble of top string musicians who performed an expressive and beautiful selection of music from Bach, Rossini and Dvořák in the glorious setting of Westminster Presbyterian Church on Lake Avenue.
Cellist John Walz performed his own edition of the Bach Suite in D Minor, which he created during the months of Covid. Then John and Altadenan bass player, Abe Gumroyan delighted with a duet by Rossini. The program concluded with Dvořák’s String Quintet No.2, where John and Abe were joined by Benjamin Jacobson, Ana Landauer and Jonathan Moerschel.
This performance was supported, in part, by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors through the Department of Arts and Culture.
Program
Suite No. 2 in D Minor for solo cello, BWV 1008
J. S. Bach (1685-1750)
John Walz, cello
Prelude
Allemande
Courante
Sarabande
Minuet I and II
Gigue
Cello and Bass Duet
Gioachino Rossini (1792-1868)
John Walz, cello
Abe Gumroyan, double bass
Allegro
Andante molto
Allegro
String Quintet No.2, Op. 77
Antonín Dvořák (1841-1904) Benjamin Jacobson, violin Ana Landauer, violin Jonathan Moerschel, viola John Walz, cello Abe Gumroyan, double bass Allegro con fuoco Scherzo: Allegro vivace Poco andante Finale: Allegro assai
In Memoriam
Roberto Cani
1967 – 2025
This concert was played in memory of our dear friend and colleague, Roberto Cani.
Roberto was a world class talent and long time Concertmaster of the LA Opera and had a stellar career as an international performing artist.
He performed a number of concerts with Melodia Mariposa, including Outreach concerts, and served as Concertmaster and soloist at our 2024 Holiday Concert. His musicianship, warmth, and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone he worked with.
He passed away in March after a long illness, leaving behind his wife Elena, young daughter Sofia, and many heartbroken friends and colleagues. We honor his memory with deep gratitude and affection.
