ON A HIGH NOTE: Rounding off 2014, The Oberoi Grand presented a musical evening called Kolkata Classics, on December 29, to promote western classical music in the city. Susan Williams, soprano, and Jennifer A. Heemstra, pianist, two American artistes now based in the city, were in focus. While Susan sang in German, French, Italian and English, she was accompanied on the piano by Jennifer. They played Summertime by George Gershwin, pieces by Gabriel Faure, and a collection by Hugo Wolf from his Italian song book. The hour-long programme was inaugurated by governor Keshari Nath Tripathi. “The whole idea for The Oberoi Grand to tie-up with a concept like this (Kolkata Classics) is because it takes you back in time, and gives an opportunity to bring in some really world-class performers, world-class music …what a fitting tribute to an iconic hotel, a heritage building,” said George Kuruvilla, general manager, The Oberoi Grand.

Picture: Sayantan Ghosh