The Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum is pleased to welcome back Desert Opus to present An American Soundscape: 20th-Century Strings.
This concert experience traces the emergence of a distinctly American musical language through one of chamber music’s most intimate forms. The program begins with Antonín Dvořák’s iconic “American” Quartet, composed during his time in the United States and infused with the rhythms, melodies, and spirit he encountered in American musical traditions. From this foundation, the concert follows the shift from European Romanticism toward a new national sound, highlighting works by George Gershwin and Aaron Copland. Drawing on jazz, folk influences, and modern harmonic language, these composers capture the breadth, innovation, and cultural diversity that shaped American music in the 20th century. Together, the program offers a rich and immersive listening experience that reflects the evolution of America’s musical identity—both rooted in tradition and boldly forward-looking.
Violist Arturo Hernández Gómez
Arturo Hernandez is a professional musician residing in Las Vegas, NV. Arturo plays violin, viola, and mandolin in styles ranging from classical, to pop, to folk and jazz. Arturo is also a professional music arranger. Alongside performing and arranging, Arturo has been teaching music for over ten years in the valley in both group class and private class settings. Some professional credits and affiliations include Andrea Bocelli, the Latin Grammys, the Latin Billboard Awards, Annex Quartet, and the Las Vegas Young Artists Orchestra, as well as playing in the pit orchestra for local musical theatre productions.
Violinist James Anderson
A Fort Collins, Colorado native and violinist since age five, James is at home in several musical arenas – including classical, jazz, tango, bluegrass/old time, and more – and has appeared on over 40 recordings. James has been featured in concert halls around the globe, he has collaborated with such artists as Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, Marcia Ball, Fyfe Dangerfield, Carolyn Wonderland, and more! James is currently based in fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada and is an in-demand violinist and teacher on the vibrant music scene.
Cellist Kimberley Kistler
Kimberley Kistler is a versatile cellist, singer, and recording artist known for her engaging performances and ability to adapt across a variety of musical genres. Originally from California and now based in Las Vegas, she has built a career that bridges classical, contemporary, and crossover styles. Whether performing solo or with ensembles, Kimberley brings her unique artistry and technical excellence to every project.
Violinist Scott Jackson
Scott Jackson is a concert violinist that has performed with symphonies across the nation, including the St. Louis and Pittsburgh Symphonies. He was a fellow with the New World Symphony after completing his doctoral studies at the Cincinnati Conservatory from 2018 until 2022, during which time his modern music ensemble, All of the Above, released an album to critical acclaim featuring the music of two contemporary composers with the title “Double Portrait”. In 2022, Scott moved to Las Vegas to be a member of the string section for Adele’s newly established residency. The Sphinx Virtuosi, a 16-person chamber orchestra which Scott continues to tour with, recently had their debut performance abroad in San Paolo, Brazil and went on to record a critically acclaimed album – Songs for Our Times – in 2023.
A reception will follow the performance, with soft beverages served.
Ages 12+
