UMD Symphony Orchestra with Zlatomir Fung, cello

Cellist Zlatomir Fung burst onto the scene as the first American in four decades, and youngest musician ever, to win first prize in the cello division at the International Tchaikovsky Competition. He has since garnered accolades, critical acclaim and standing ovations at performances around the world. Astounding audiences with his technical skill and exquisite sensitivity, the 26-year-old has already proven himself a star among the next generation of world-class musicians.

The UMD Symphony Orchestra, in partnership with Clarice Presents, joins forces with this acclaimed young cellist for a performance of Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto, an emotional and lush work that showcases the full virtuosity of the cello and soloist.

This performance will also include Igor Stravinsky’s “Firebird” Suite. Based on Russian folklore, this piece depicts the story of a prince who enlists the help of the titular character to defeat a powerful, ogre-like figure of evil. By blending the compositional stylings taught to him by his mentor, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, with the fervor of Russian music, Stravinsky composed a captivating piece that not only launched his career, but continues to enamor audiences today.