Fish Creek, Wis. (May 10, 2025) – The Peninsula Music Festival (PMF) is thrilled to welcome internationally acclaimed pianist Joyce Yang to the stage this summer at the Door Community Auditorium for two distinct and captivating performances. A favorite among audiences and critics alike, Yang brings her virtuosic brilliance and poetic touch to two captivating programs: American Dream on Tuesday, August 5, and Scandinavian Evening on Thursday, August 7.
“We are honored to welcome Joyce Yang to the Peninsula Music Festival,” said Lisa Harper, Executive Director of the Peninsula Music Festival. “Her extraordinary talent and expressive performances promise to make this season truly memorable for our audiences.”
Yang, a silver medalist at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition and a Grammy nominee, has earned global recognition for her extraordinary technique and emotional depth. She has performed with premier orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, and Los Angeles Philharmonic, and now brings her signature artistry to Door County for a pair of contrasting but equally compelling nights of music.
Yang will perform on “Esther Browning,” a cherished 9-foot Steinway concert grand piano that resides year-round at Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church and joins PMF this season as a beloved centerpiece of its summer performances. Once the preferred rental piano for the Minnesota Orchestra, Esther was brought to Door County at the recommendation of the late John Browning—a Grammy-winning pianist and longtime PMF friend. Recognizing the instrument’s exceptional tonal beauty, Browning urged PMF to secure her for its concerts. Esther is a jewel in the piano world, with a breathtaking color palette and magnificent presence. Her voice fills the auditorium—making her a perfect partner for Yang’s dazzling technique and poetic touch.
AMERICAN DREAM – AUGUST 5
Under the baton of Maestro Rune Bergmann, American Dream celebrates the sweeping musical tapestry of the United States. The program features iconic works by Copland, Gershwin, and Sousa, culminating in Yang’s performance of Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini, Op. 43. Known for its dazzling piano fireworks and lush romanticism, this beloved work will showcase Yang’s “wondrous sense of color” (San Francisco Classical Voice) and virtuosic command of the keyboard.
“Joyce Yang’s interpretation of Rachmaninoff is both technically brilliant and deeply emotive,” said Maestro Rune Bergmann, Music Director of the Peninsula Music Festival. “Her performance will undoubtedly be a highlight of our season.”
The evening also includes Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and Quiet City, Gershwin’s vibrant Cuban Overture and An American in Paris, and closes with Sousa’s rousing Stars and Stripes Forever, led by Festival Chairman David Keen. It’s a musical tribute to the heart, soul, and spirit of America—complete with a world-class pianist at its center.
SCANDINAVIAN EVENING – AUGUST 7
Yang returns two nights later for Scandinavian Evening, an evocative journey through the majestic soundscapes of Northern Europe. Highlighting the Romantic elegance of Edvard Grieg, Yang performs the composer’s Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 16—a sweeping and soulful masterpiece infused with Norwegian folk melodies. Hailed by The Washington Post for her “poetic and sensitive pianism,” Yang’s interpretation promises to stir hearts and leave audiences spellbound.
The evening also features Carl Nielsen’s spirited Overture to Maskarade and concludes with Sibelius’ monumental Symphony No. 5, whose soaring “swan theme” has captivated listeners for generations. With Maestro Bergmann at the podium, this Nordic program brings passion, grandeur, and breathtaking beauty to the PMF stage.
TICKETS & INFORMATION
Both performances take place at Door Community Auditorium in Fish Creek as part of the nine concert Peninsula Music Festival happening August 5-23. Tickets are available now at www.musicfestival.com or by calling the Peninsula Music Festival box office at (920) 854-4060.
Don’t miss your chance to witness one of today’s most extraordinary pianists in two remarkable performances—each a journey through musical brilliance, cultural richness, and unforgettable artistry.
About Peninsula Music Festival: The Peninsula Music Festival is dedicated to bringing exceptional classical music performances to the community. Now in its 73nd season, the festival continues to attract world-class musicians and enthusiastic audiences from around the region and beyond.
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