Andy & Friends - Boundless: Ani & Her Four Strings

The Sigal Music Museum is pleased to present Andy & Friends Concert Series at Greenville’s Fine Arts Center. World-renowned pianist and concert host Artistic Director Andrew Armstrong will be joined by a stellar lineup of world-class musicians, ensuring an unforgettable second season for this very special series.

Join us at the Fine Arts Center for an electrifying evening of music for cello and piano as internationally acclaimed artists Ani Aznavoorian and Andrew Armstrong bring their extraordinary artistry to the stage. This dynamic duo pairs emotional depth with virtuosic brilliance, opening the night with Shostakovich’s searing Cello Sonata in D minor before journeying through the vibrant colors of de Falla’s Suite Popular Española and the lyrical beauty of Arutunian’s Impromptu. After intermission, Aznavoorian offers a meditative performance of Bach’s beloved Cello Suite No. 1, followed by Armstrong’s imaginative piano medley inspired by Pictures at an Exhibition. The evening concludes with Paganini’s dazzling Fantasy on Rossini’s “Moses,” a tour de force for both performers.

Recognized for her “scorchingly committed performances” and “immaculate technique,” Ani Aznavoorian has appeared with many of the world’s great orchestras—from the Chicago Symphony to the Helsinki Philharmonic—and has graced major concert halls including Carnegie Hall, Aspen’s Harris Hall, and London’s Wigmore Hall. A Presidential Scholar in the Arts and winner of numerous international competitions, she is also known for championing new music, premiering works by composers such as Ezra Laderman and Lera Auerbach. Aznavoorian performs on a cello handcrafted by her father, adding a deeply personal dimension to her sound.

Pianist Andrew Armstrong is celebrated for his passionate, expressive artistry and has performed over 60 concertos with orchestras around the world. His career includes appearances at the Kennedy Center, Moscow Conservatory’s Grand Hall, and Warsaw’s National Philharmonic, as well as collaborations with many of today’s leading string quartets and chamber musicians. A prolific recording artist, Armstrong’s recent releases include *In Blue*—featuring *Rhapsody in Blue*—and acclaimed duo albums with violinist James Ehnes. His upcoming seasons include festivals in Tuscany, national tours, and leadership of multiple chamber music series across the United States.

Together, Aznavoorian and Armstrong create performances marked by unmatched chemistry, emotional power, and technical command. This compelling program—spanning fiery Romanticism, expressive folk melodies, introspective Baroque dance, and virtuosic showpieces—promises an unforgettable night of music-making. Don’t miss the rare opportunity to experience two of today’s most captivating performers.

NOTE: This performance takes place at the Fine Arts Center, 102 Pine Knoll Drive, Greenville, South Carolina