Intern Hilary: Overtures Artist Concert Series Reception at Evermay

Photo credit: Allix Wright

Editorial credit: Hilary Rocks

Have ginger, will travel.

Tuesday I had the pleasure of attending the S&R Foundation’s launch for the Overtures Artist Concert Series.  Overtures features seven award-winning performing artists in a series of concerts at the Kennedy Center as part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival Centennial Celebration. The event took place at the notable and exquisite Evermay Mansion in Georgetown, which was recently purchased by the S&R Foundation’s President, Dr. Sachiko Kuno, and Honorary Chair, Dr. Ryuji Ueno.

I immediately honed in on the rare opportunity to talk to Washington native and Overtures performer Char Prescott. A brilliant cellist with a long list of awards and a distinguished musical education pedigree, Prescott is scheduled to perform tonight, thanks to a fluke.

“The violinist who was supposed to perform was injured, so they called me to play instead. They’re flying my pianist in now from Glasgow!”

Having played the cello for fourteen years and being only twenty-three years old, this was the opportunity of a lifetime for Char, who “absolutely” wants to pursue a career as a professional cellist.

“I hope this is just the beginning of my musical career. I’m so excited for this amazing experience; it is such an honor!”

After chatting with Shar, I couldn’t take my eyes off of Maki Mori’s beautiful dress. The award-winning and critically acclaimed soprano, who performed at the Kennedy Center last night, captivated the entire room with her poise and elegance.

Perhaps the only thing more enchanting than Ms. Mori’s dress of cascading flowers was the estate itself, and in particular the beautiful grounds surrounding the house. My trusty photographer Allix and I felt like we were in a scene from The Secret Garden as we explored the winding paths behind the stately mansion.

For more information on the Overtures series, visit http://overturesseries.org/.