Importance of Side by Sides

DESTINY MERMAGEN — VIOLIN FAVORITES

Violinist Destiny Mermagen’s “Side by Side” concerts at Village Presbyterian Church have been a wonderful opportunity for young musicians to perform with professionals. Her next program, “Violin Favorites,” on June 24 will feature some of the most popular works of the violin repertoire, performed by Mermagen and pianist Hyunsoon Whang. Students will perform the Intermezzo from Mendelssohn’sQuartet No. 2 A Minor, Op. 13.

“As a concert violinist, I love performing and connecting with audiences of all kinds,” Mermagen said. “I love discovering what my audiences want to hear, so I’ve included many of those requests in this concert, plus some of my own personal favorites.”

The program will include a sonata by Brahms and Viennese bon bons by Fritz Kreisler. There will also be selections from Mermagen’s album “Bach to Barn Burners.”

Mermagen has a great sensitivity and care for young people who have been brought up in less than ideal circumstances. “I grew up in an abusive environment, and having these opportunities to share my music while receiving positive reinforcement saved me,” Mermagen said. “But even students who grow up in a perfectly normal environment have emotional struggles. Music provides a unique outlet for expression and can soothe these strifes.”

When not concertizing, Mermagen is announcer-producer of “Evening Classical,” which can be heard from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday on Kansas Public Radio, 91.5 FM.