Shadows and Fire | A Dramatic Journey Through Darkness, Spirit and Light

Join us for Shadows and Fire, the fall chapter of our four-part seasonal series at the historic Philadelphia Ethical Society. As the day
About this Event

Join us for Shadows and Fire, the fall chapter of our four-part seasonal series at the historic Philadelphia Ethical Society. As the days shorten, we explore the dramatic depths of the classical repertoire—a powerful, emotive experience for aficionados and newcomers alike.

Featuring selected classical masterworks culminating in Franz Liszt’s thrilling finale, Dance of the Dead (Totentanz), this performance brings the dark, rich colors of late autumn to life. Performed by our core trio—Leigh Brown (cello), Gabe Preston (flute), and Anthony Passante Contaldi (piano)—Shadows and Fire celebrates the shift of the seasons through an evening of musical drama, warmth, and resonance.

🎵 Concert Program

Gabe Preston, flute

• Partita in A minor, BWV 1004 – J.S. Bach

Leigh Brown, cello

• 2-Part Inventions – J.S. Bach
• Selected Cello Etudes – David Popper

Gabe Preston, flute / Anthony Passante-Contaldi, piano

• The Marsh – Gabe Preston

Leigh Brown, cello / Chelsea Meynig, flute

• 5 Duets for Flute and Cello – Gwendolyn Staheli
• Assobio a Jato (The Jet Whistle) – Heitor Villa-Lobos

Anthony Passante-Contaldi, piano

• Totentanz (Dance of the Dead), S.126 – Franz Liszt
• Why was I not made of stone? – Anthony Passante-Contaldi