Marina Arsenijevic, Pianist Preaching Unity Through Diversity

One Symphony with Devin Patrick Hughes

In this episode of One Symphony, conductor Devin Patrick Hughes interviews acclaimed pianist and composer Marina Arsenijevic to discuss her journey that led to her latest album, Chopin Obsessions. Arsenijevic shared insights into her upbringing in former Yugoslavia, the influences that shaped her musical style, and her unwavering commitment to promoting unity through diversity. Marina Arsenijevic is as an inspiration to artists and audiences alike. Her journey of unity through diversity reminds us of the transformative power of music and its ability to bring people together, even in the most challenging of times.
Growing up in a communist country, Arsenijevic was exposed to a wide range of musical genres, from Western pop to traditional Balkan music, which would later play a significant role in shaping her unique compositional style.
As the disintegration of Yugoslavia began in the early 1990s, Arsenijevic found solace in her music. She recognized the power of music to transcend borders and bring people together, even in the face of conflict and adversity. “I wanted to show our common humanity through history, culture, through music, so I started to blend diverse melodies and rhythms to unite us,” she explained.
Arsenijevic's commitment to promoting unity through diversity led to the creation of her PBS special, Marina at West Point: Unity Through Diversity. The concert, which featured the West Point Chorus and Band, showcased a diverse range of musical styles and pieces from Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue to Freddie Mercury's "Bohemian Rhapsody" alongside Arsenijevic's own compositions. The special aimed to share Arsenijevic's message with a wider audience.
During the interview, Arsenijevic also discussed her latest album, Chopin Obsessions. She discussed the influence of Chopin's relationships with aristocratic women on his compositions and the evolution of his musical style throughout his career. Arsenijevic also drew parallels between Chopin and other composers of the Romantic Era.
When asked about her advice for young composers and pianists, Arsenijevic emphasized the importance of using one's own cultural background and traditional music. She encouraged artists to explore the melodies and rhythms of their heritage and incorporate them into their compositions.

MARINA ARSENIJEVIC is an international award-winning pianist and composer, star of the Emmy-nominated Public Television program, “Marina at West Point: Unity through Diversity”which has been broadcast to more than 170 Million viewers on PBS Stations all across the country. Marina created the program and performed with the 120-member joint ensemble of the West Point Band and West Point Cadet Glee Club. The Concert was recorded live at West Point’s historic Eisenhower Hall and as of 2020 become one of the longest running single concerts at PBS TV Network.

Thank you for joining us on One Symphony. Thanks to Marina Arsenijevic for sharing her music and performances. You can find more info at https://www.marinainamerica.com/home

The following music was heard on today’s episode:

“A Piece of My Sky” composed and performed by Marina Arsenijevic.
“Gypsy Suite” from the album My Balkan Soul, composed and performed by Marina Arsenijevic available from KM Records.
“Armed Forces Medley” performed by Marina with the West Point Cadet Glee Club and the West Point Band from the PBS special Marina at West Point: Unity Through Diversity.
The cadenza and finale from Tesla Rhapsody, composed by Marina made possible by the Gold Spirit Award from the Tesla Science Foundation.
Chopin’s Waltz in A-flat Major op 42, Fantaisie-impromptu, Op.66, and Ballade No. 1 in G minor, performed by Marina on the album Chopin Obsession available from United World Bravo Music.
“Homolje” from the album Balkan Sounds. Composed and performed by Marina Arsenijevic and the Servian Chamber Orchestra and Chorus. Arranged by Zoran Hristic. Available from United World Bravo Music.

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