On Wednesday, June 14th, we experienced an immersive evening of musical talent, as world-renowned percussionist Christian Benning took the stage with Oliver Xu at 1014.
This event captured a fusion of European and American compositions, interpreted by these two young experts of their discipline. From Bach and Albeniz, to the rhythms of Marino, Cangelosi, Markovich, Glentworth, Reifeneder, Xenakis, and even The Beatles, the repertoire took us on a musical journey.
Christian Benning is a trailblazer in the international percussion scene. Described as a "Rhythmic Genius" by Die ZEIT, his skills have elevated him to the pinnacle of his craft. As a soloist, his musical journeys have taken him to iconic venues such as the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, the majestic Milan Cathedral, the historic Teatro Romano in Verona, and the esteemed Théâtre de la Ville in Paris, to name a few. In 2020, he made his solo debut at the United Nations in New York City. Collaborating with renowned orchestras, he demonstrates his artistic versatility on stages worldwide. Notably, he serves as a timpanist at the Opera House in Port Louis and the Munich Bach Orchestra, and imparts his knowledge as a lecturer, conducting masterclasses at conservatories in Spain, Israel, and Mauritius.
Percussionist Oliver Xu has been internationally recognized as a solo performer advocating for contemporary music. Based in New York City, he was awarded a Benzaquen Career Advancement Grant by The Juilliard School after graduating with his master’s degree. This season’s highlights include a guest artist recital at Ithaca College’s Ford Hall, and two world premiere performances with New York Classical Players. In recent years, he has received First Prize at the Percussive Arts Society Solo Artist Competition, Third Prize at the Sixth IPEA International Percussion Competition, and the Youth Jury Prize at the TROMP International Percussion Competition. Looking forward, he is excited to appear as part of the Lucerne Festival Academy, perform at the Seventh IPEA International Percussion Competition in Shanghai, and begin his fellowship with Carnegie Hall’s Ensemble Connect.
Venue Accessibility
Unfortunately, 1014 Fifth Avenue is in the process of being refurbished, and is not fully accessible in its current state. We apologize to our guests and kindly ask you to contact j.isaacs@1014.nyc if you need further information or assistance. We will do our best to enable everyone to join us.