University of Richmond President To Offer Noontime Cello Performance

Editor's Note: This release was updated April 17 to include a link to the performance. This release was also updated April 16 to reflect the specific link to the livestream on Facebook.

Performance link: https://vimeo.com/408972764

Livestream link: https://www.facebook.com/urichmond/videos/531690347545372/

UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — Musicians worldwide are hosting informal concerts in their homes to lessen anxiety and bring joy in the current pandemic environment.

University of Richmond President Ronald A. Crutcher, a classical musician, plans to do the same. On April 17, he will perform on his cello during a noon performance from his home. The performance will be broadcast on the University of Richmond’s Facebook page via Facebook Live.

Crutcher, who began studying the cello at 14, chose a lunchtime performance because music has always helped him to rise above the challenges and disappointments in his own life.

“This is a terribly challenging time for everyone. It is also a time filled with disappointment of various types, particularly for our graduating seniors,” Crutcher said. “It feels appropriate for me to share this with our community at this difficult moment.” 

He will perform two pieces, including the first movement of the Eccles Sonata in G minor and “The Swan,” which comes from “The Carnival of the Animals,” a musical suite by the French Romantic composer Charles-Camille Saint-Saëns. It was a favorite of Crutcher’s since he was a boy. 

“It is a piece I love to play and that I frequently employ as I am warming up or practicing,” Crutcher said. “I hope it will provide some small measure of inspiration, encouragement, and comfort.”

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