Sun, Sept. 18 – Renowned Pianist Robert Thies Concert

Robert Edward Thies (Photo – robertthies.org).

In its 20th year, The Restoration Concert Committee continues to bring world-class music to South Pasadena.

The Sunday afternoon concerts, frequently featuring internationally-known and award-winning musicians, attract music lovers from throughout the Los Angeles area and beyond, while requests are regularly received from performers wishing to participate in the series.

This Sunday, renowned artist and pianist Robert Thies will open the season. Thies first captured worldwide attention in 1995 when he won the Gold Medal at the Second International Prokofiev Competition in St. Petersburg, Russia. With this victory, Thies became the only American pianist to win a Russian piano competition since Van Cliburn’s triumph in Moscow in 1958.

Proceeds from the Restoration Concerts are dedicated to the ongoing enhancement of the historic Community Room where the concerts are staged. Improvements to date have included new carpeting and chairs. A recent special project enabled the purchase, thanks to support from individuals, grants, local organizations and businesses, of a 9′ Steinway concert grand piano.

For additional information, check the official website or call (626) 799-6333.

The Series began when the South Pasadena Public Library celebrated its 100th year in 1995. Volunteer Cindy Line was asked to plan a chamber music event in the historic Library Community Room. The event was so well received that she was asked by the City Librarian to form a music series. It was the Committee’s original intent that all proceeds would be dedicated to continued enhancements of the Community Room or the Library, thus the name “Restoration Concert Series.” The group also accepts donations, with four categories of donors: patrons, sponsors, friends, and supporters. A nine-foot Steinway grand piano was acquired for the Community Room with the funds.