Young violinist Alexey Stychkin, a distinguished 2022-2023 artist of the Classeek Ambassador Programme, is set to perform alongside Camerata Venia in Geneva this October. This partnership underscores Classeek's dedication to nurturing young talents, with Alexey earning his place through an open application for the Ambassador Programme in 2022.

This collaboration brings together exceptional artistry and musical showmanship for what will surely be a night to remember. The event serves as a platform to showcase the synergies that Classeek fosters, uniting outstanding talents on the global stage and emphasizing the strategic goals of the Ambassador Programme.

Ahead of the show, join us as we take a look into what went into the making of this night.

A Virtuoso in the Making

Photo © Clara Evans

Hailing from a lineage steeped in musical heritage, Alexey’s journey is one defined by versatility, collaboration, and virtuosity. From his early education at Moscow's Central Music School for Gifted Children under Galina Tourchaninova to honing his craft with maestro Marc Bouchkov at the Liege Royal Conservatory, Alexey has emerged as a standout talent. Notably, Alexey is now a distinguished academy musician in the renowned Staatskapelle Orchestra Berlin, performing under the baton of esteemed conductors such as Daniel Barenboim and Christian Thielemann. While pursuing his master's degree with the distinguished Mihaela Martin at the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz in Cologne, Alexey's trajectory in the world of classical music is marked by promise and passion.

The decision to put him forward for this opportunity came very easily for the team. As CEO of Classeek Catarina Amon explained, “It’s a nice opportunity for violinist Alexey Stychkin to perform with Camerata Venia, a chamber orchestra composed by great musicians from other orchestras and directed by Gleb Skvortsov, in the Bâtiment des Forces Motrices Venue in Geneva and meet new audiences.”

On his participation in this performance, Alexey expressed: "Being a part of the Classeek Ambassador Programme has been nothing short of transformative for me. It's an honor to represent an organization that not only recognizes the challenges young musicians face in finding their footing on the world stage but actively works to change that narrative. This collaboration with Camerata Venia is a testament to Classeek's unwavering support, and I'm thrilled to share the stage with such accomplished artists. This event will be an unforgettable musical journey, and I can't wait to connect with the audience through the language we all speak – music."

Setting the Stage for Musical Brilliance

Founded in Geneva in 2008 by visionary Gleb Skvortsov, Camerata Venia epitomizes excellence and collaboration in the world of classical music. In the "Carmen Suite" event, Alexey will be a distinguished guest artist offering an impactful performance. This fusion of talent and collaboration mirrors the core values of both organizations, highlighting their shared dedication to nurturing emerging talents and pushing the boundaries of artistic excellence.

Svetlana Froidevaux, Head of Public Relations at Camerata Venia, shared her excitement for the upcoming collaboration: "At Camerata Venia, we believe in pushing the boundaries of classical music, and collaborating with exceptional talents like Alexey Stychkin is a testament to that belief. We are thrilled to have Alexey grace our stage and infuse his artistry into the “Carmen Suite” ballet and classical music event. This performance promises to be a remarkable blend of talent, and we anticipate it will leave a lasting impression on all those in attendance."

Alexey will be performing Massenet’s Meditation from Thaïs. On this part of the programme, Gleb commented: “Adding a piece between Bach's music and Schubert's music can sometimes feel like navigating through deep shadows and whirlpools of emotion. This is where Massenet's "Méditation" emerges, like a resplendent point of light between these two masterpieces. Imagine this: you are immersed in the tormented passion of "Jeune Homme et la Mort," with its frenetic rhythm and bursts of raw emotion. Bach's bold and dramatic movements sweep you into a whirlwind of sensations. Then, suddenly, Thaïs' "Méditation" takes the stage.

“This piece, composed by Jules Massenet, is like a little golden-wrapped jewel amidst this musical spectacle. Its gentle melodies seem to caress the soul, offering a welcome respite after the preceding emotional tempests. The violinist, like a magician, weaves notes that shimmer like stars in the night, bringing celestial grace to the whole. It's the perfect contrast.

“The "Méditation" acts like a delicate parenthesis, allowing the audience to catch their breath, to be cradled by the tenderness of the music, before plunging once again into the dark depths of "La Jeune Fille et la Mort." Thus, in the selection of a musical program, Thaïs' "Méditation" is more than just a simple piece; it is an oasis of pure emotion, a gleam of hope and beauty, a precious little jewel that connects two musical worlds, creating an unforgettable experience for all who listen.”

Empowering Emerging Classical Musicians

Since its inception in 2017, Classeek has been serving as a catalyst for emerging artists in the classical music realm. The Ambassador Programme, a cornerstone initiative, is dedicated to providing tailored opportunities for growth and exposure. It not only supports and promotes select musicians nominated by internationally acclaimed artists and industry professionals, but it also serves as a platform to discover the young artists of tomorrow in a unique way.

The Classeek Ambassador Programme is designed to be a career accelerator for young classical artists. Recognizing the limited stage access young talent faces even after graduating from prestigious music schools, Classeek's initiative supports a select group of musicians recommended by internationally acclaimed artists or industry professionals known as Classeek's Ambassadors. Historically only open to nominations from the Classeek Ambassadors, the team opened the programme to the public in 2022 via an open application process. It was through this that Alexey came to join this select group, positioning him as one to watch in the next generation of classical musicians.

Get Ready for an Evening of Ballet and Musical Mastery

So, will you be in Geneva on October 16th, 2023? There will be no better way to spend it than with Camerata Venia, World Ballet Stars and Alexey Stychkin for the “Carmen Suite” event, featuring his performance of Massenet’s Meditation from Thaïs, in the Bâtiment des Forces Motrices.

To witness this extraordinary performance firsthand, click here to secure your tickets today. Don't miss the opportunity to be a part of this musical journey.