Humble, candid, inspiring; a page-turning must-read.
Through vivid descriptions and melodic prose, Whalen, the former Artistic and General Director of Illinois’ Woodstock Mozart Festival, takes readers on an immersive voyage through her life, brimming with personal triumphs, profound insights, and harmonious joy in her latestX book. From her Hungarian roots to the nomadic life she led across America—from the ivy-covered neighborhoods of New England, to the sun-soaked streets of California, and even the sultry southern charm of Baton Rouge—Whalen traces the path that led her to the Woodstock Mozart Festival in Woodstock, IL. After her brief stints as a piano teacher, a teaching consultant, and the founder/director of a school of piano instruction, Whalen found herself at home in arts management at Fox River Valley Symphony. There, her unwavering determination and tireless work ethic flourished as she excelled in music performance, teaching, and philanthropy. In 1992, she was tasked with reviving the struggling Woodstock Mozart Festival. With her background as Executive Director of the Fox River Valley Symphony, she raised thousands of dollars with a dedicated team. In just four years, she turned the festival into a successful event and expanded its repertoire to include renowned artists like conductor Catherine Comet, pianist Janis Vakarelis among others. With Co-Artistic Director Mark Peskanov by her side, she expanded the festival’s repertoire beyond just showcasing Mozart’s renowned works in its tenth season: they also included pieces from other legendary composers such as Bach, Vivaldi, Haydn, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Prokofiev etc., attracted world-class soloists, and implemented new, exciting programs that transformed the festival into a beloved spot for exceptional classical music performances. Whalen’s writing flows smoothly, painting a vivid picture of the world of music. She focuses on successful outcomes and bold risks that paid off, providing an in-depth look at a chamber music festival’s triumphant rise from the verge of shutdown to reaching great artistic heights. The book covers a wide scope of information about performing arts and how arts organizations work. However, at its core, it is a testament to a person’s incredible willpower, persistence, and hard work. As the story unfolds, the reader is captivated by the author’s relentless determination, love for music, and embracing nature, and her visionary spirit becomes a wellspring of motivation. A memorable portrait of a woman who worked as a guiding force for aspiring musicians seeking their place on the world stage. A stunner.
Mozart Blooms in Woodstock: The Illinois Festival that Could!
Anita Whalen
Pub date May 22, 2023
ISBN 979-8986216201
Price $24.99 (USD) Paperback