The date is set! Newnan’s native son and world-famous pianist Charles Wadsworth will return to Newnan to perform in concert in his namesake Charles Wadsworth Municipal Auditorium April 20 at 7:30 pm.
Wadsworth will once again be joined by a group of world-class musicians as they present the much anticipated Charles Wadsworth & Friends concert that has become Newnan’s most prominent cultural event. On this occasion, however, the concert takes on a bittersweet tone because Wadsworth has advised the Newnan Cultural Arts Commission that the 2013 concert will be his “Farewell.’ Several years ago, on the occasion of his 80th birthday, Wadsworth stated his intention of returning to Newnan annually “for as long as providentially able.” Late last year, Charles decided that age and providence dictated that he conclude his concert appearances, and the 2013 Newnan concert would be one of a very few scheduled.
On the evening of April 20, the Wadsworth Auditorium will again resound with Wadsworth’s music – including the encore performances of three of Newnan’s favorite, classical artists. Special arrangements have been made by Wadsworth to include these outstanding performers in his “Farewell” Newnan concert. The artists include Newnan’s own soprano Courtney Budd, violinist Chee-Yun, and cellist Edward Aaron. Additionally, Irish baritone Michael Kelly and Korean pianist Ji-Yong will join host Charles Wadsworth. Musically and artistically, this final Wadsworth concert will bring an evening filled with memories and world-class musicians to its Newnan audience.
Charles Wadsworth has been returning annually to Newnan with his Charles Wadsworth & Friends concerts since 1993. Originally sponsored by a group of local citizens and, more recently, by the City of Newnan’s Cultural Arts Commission, the concert has generated funds used to restore the city’s auditorium named after Wadsworth in 1998. Today the concert continues supporting the ongoing upkeep and improvement of this treasured hall. Concert proceeds have also made possible a series of Master Classes in which the visiting artists share their talents and personal experiences with groups of Coweta County students. With the strong support of the Newnan City Council and a large number of loyal patrons, the restoration of the auditorium was completed in 2008.
General admission tickets for the concert remain budget priced at $20. and will be available after March 15. Patron tickets for the event, including a post concert reception, are also available. Patron inquiries are invited and information is available from Concert Chair John White at 770-253-1959.
