The Green Room

Two music virtuosos in one family? Yes, it’s true in the Shaham family. Siblings and music virtuosos renowned around the world violinist Gil Saham and pianist Orli Shaham are coming to the Shannon Hall stage at Memorial Union on April 3 at 7:30 p.m. 

While their parents were scientists, they were also devoted music lovers, who filled their home with music. Following their parents’ advice, Gil and Orli each established their careers separately, never performing together during their academic studies. Orli praises this advice from her parents. She believes this allowed them to be recognized more for their individual talents. 

One Talented Family

Their collaboration began in the late ‘90s when a radio station asked them to perform together. After performing Sonatina in G major for violin and piano by Antonín Dvořák, Gil’s producer urged them to record together. From there, their collaboration began and continues today with joint records and performance tours. 

Orli appreciates the trust they have in one another and the learning through being one another’s critics that the trust helps make possible. She also has said they have a deep musical understanding of one another. 

Get to Know the Artists

Grammy-winning Gil Shaham is celebrated for his flawless technique, warmth and expressive performances. He was drawn to the violin due to its appearance early in life, captivated by both its visual beauty and its voice-like sound. His love of the violin, hard work and talent led him to an incredible career as a sought-after violinist and performing on the world’s greatest stages. His accolades include Musical America's “Instrumentalist of the Year,” an Avery Fisher Career Grant, and the Avery Fisher Prize.

Internationally renowned pianist Orli Shaham has been praised as brilliant by the New York Times and musical perfection by the Guardian London. She is recognized for her nuanced approach to music and her versatility. She serves as the artistic director for Pacific Symphony's chamber music series, Café Ludwig and artistic director of the interactive children’s concert series, Orli Shaham’s Bach Yard, which she founded in 2010. Orli has received numerous awards, such as the Gilmore Young Artist Award in 1995 and the Avery Fisher Career Grant.

Concert in Madison 

A concert featuring just one of these remarkable artists would be unforgettable. Together, they create a performance that is truly an experience for a lifetime. Secure your tickets before they’re gone here: https://union.wisc.edu/events-and-activities/event-calendar/event/theater-gil-and-orli-shaham/. 

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Program lineup: 

Amanda Maier, Sonata (B minor) for Piano and Violin (1873)

Clara Schumann, Three Romances for Violin and Piano, Op. 22 (1853)

Robert Schumann, Sonata No. 1 in A minor, Op. 105 (1851)

Robert Schumann, Three Romances for Oboe and Piano, Op. 94, Version for Violin (1849)

Johannes Brahms, Violin Sonata No. 3 in D minor, Op. 108 (1886–1888)