Soprano Lydia Grindatto at Cross-Cultural Crescendo Concert | Image: Cultured Focus
International Concerts' Cross-Cultural Crescendo at Temple Emanu-El
Celebrates Music as a Universal Language
International Concerts, a non-profit organization based in Brooklyn, New York, recently made a significant contribution to the city's cultural landscape by promoting cross-cultural exchange through music. Their event, Cross-Cultural Crescendo, exemplified their mission to bring diverse musical traditions together on one stage.
Cross-Cultural Crescendo: A Resounding Success at Temple Emanu-El
Cross-Cultural Crescendo, held on Sunday, February 2, 2025, proved to be
a spectacular showcase of international talent. This gala fundraiser founded by Diana Stomsvik, took place at Temple Emanu-El, located in the heart of New York City.
Top: Diana Stomsvik, Bottom (L-R) Mo Glazman, Michelle Bradley | Image: Cultured Focus
Event Highlights:
- Diverse Performances: The event featured a vibrant blend of classical opera, cantorial song, and traditional Georgian folk music and dance.
- Star-Studded Lineup: Renowned opera stars from the United States and Georgia performed selections from Verdi, Puccini, and other great composers.
- Featured Artists: International Concerts accomplished lineup included Michelle Bradley (Soprano), Viktor Antipenko (Tenor), Lydia Grindatto (Soprano), Giorgi Lomiseli (Baritone), and Cantor Mo Glazman (Tenor).
- Cultural Showcase: The Zekari Chorus of Dancing Crane Company and Pesvebi Children's Georgian Song and Dance Group presented captivating traditional Georgian performances.
Cross-Cultural Crescendo Concert Performances | Image: Cultured Focus
Temple Emanu-El: A Perfect Venue
- The event took place in Temple Emanu-El’s Fifth Avenue Sanctuary.
- The venues’ Center for Interfaith Dialogue believes that the spirit of co-existence takes center stage through the performing arts, where unique voices sing together in harmony and audiences may cherish the sounds of a more peaceful tomorrow.
- A portion of the proceeds benefitted The Center for Interfaith Dialogue's outreach programs.
Mission and Impact
International Concerts aims to serve diverse cultures and assist emerging artists through its programs. The organization's efforts extended beyond mere entertainment, fostering understanding and appreciation for different musical traditions.
Taylor Re Lynn | Cultured Focus Magazine Founder
Cultured Focus Mission
Taylor Re Lynn, founder of Cultured Focus Magazine, attended the Cross-Cultural Crescendo at Temple Emanu-El to support International Concerts’ mission of showcasing global talent and promoting cultural exchange. As a champion of diversity in arts and media, Lynn recognized the event’s alignment with her magazine’s vision of amplifying diverse voices and celebrating cultural richness. Collaborating with Diana Stomsvik, the event’s organizer, was an opportunity to highlight the extraordinary talents of international artists for her readers. Lynn views such events as vital platforms for fostering inclusivity and bridging cultural divides, reinforcing Cultured Focus Magazine’s commitment to spotlighting global creativity.
The Legacy of Crescendo
The Cross-Cultural Crescendo demonstrated International Concerts' commitment to promoting cultural exchange through music. By bringing together diverse musical traditions and talented artists from around the world, they created a unique and memorable experience for attendees, fostering cultural appreciation and understanding.