EastWest Artistry will host its inaugural “Valentine’s Live Salon” on February 14, 2026, at OPERA America in New York City. This special event will feature renowned soprano Lena Wu as the principal vocalist, showcasing a selection of arias from celebrated composers including Puccini, Gluck, and Korngold. Accompanying her will be pianist Jason Wirth along with instrumentalists Diana Skobina, Noah Stevens, Boya Li, and Xi Lu.
The program promises a rich and diverse repertoire, including pieces by Scriabin, Abdullaev, Bach, Caroline Shaw, and Schubert. Wu expressed her enthusiasm for this performance, stating, “After presenting numerous in-house salon and gallery performances last year, this concert marks an important step into a formal concert hall setting. Our aim is to bridge the intimacy of social music-making with the rigor of a traditional venue, cultivating new audiences while keeping the experience warm and accessible.”
Creating a Romantic Atmosphere
Set against the backdrop of Valentine’s Day, the concert aims to create a romantic ambiance. Alongside the classical music, attendees can expect small gestures such as complimentary roses, designed to enhance the experience for both seasoned listeners and newcomers alike. Wu emphasized that the evening will foster a shared, meaningful encounter with classical music, encouraging a wider audience to appreciate this art form.
In addition to the Valentine’s Salon, EastWest Artistry has announced an open call for classical musicians interested in participating in its forthcoming production at the DiMenna Center for Classical Music on April 18, 2026. This initiative reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting emerging talent and expanding its artistic collaborations.
As EastWest Artistry moves into this new phase of formal concert presentations, the “Valentine’s Live Salon” stands as a testament to its dedication to making classical music accessible and inviting.
