As part of the vibrant European Union Culture Week taking place in Turkmenistan, a spectacular gala concert was organized by the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Ashgabat. This enchanting event celebrated the rich tradition of German classical music and was held at the illustrious National Music and Drama Theatre, named after the esteemed poet Magtymguly, which served as an exquisite backdrop for the evening’s performances.
The highly talented Klenke String Quartet, accompanied by renowned double bassist Alf Moser, enthralled a large and appreciative audience with their masterful interpretations. The Klenke Quartet, boasting a remarkable 30-year legacy, comprises Annegret Klenke (violin), Beate Hartmann (violin), Yvonne Uhlemann (viola), and Ruth Kaltenhäuser (cello). Their years of dedication and successful performances have garnered them significant acclaim, both nationally and internationally, making them prominent figures in the classical music scene.
The concert program was a carefully curated selection of timeless compositions from iconic composers such as Handel, Mozart, Weber, Schumann, Strauss, Reger, and Lehár. These illustrious figures, each a cornerstone of Germany’s musical heritage, were showcased throughout the evening. The concert’s host, Selbi Yomudova, provided insightful commentary in English, enriching the audience’s understanding by delving into the significance of each piece and its illustrious composer.
One of the evening’s highlights featured the stunning performance of “Rejoice,” an aria from Handel’s celebrated oratorio “Messiah,” by the talented soprano Narine Yeghiyan. From the very first notes, her mesmerizing voice captivated the audience, transporting them to a place of pure enchantment. This particular piece holds special significance in Germany, where it is often performed in homes during the Christmas season, embodying a cherished holiday tradition.
The gala concert showcased an array of romantic, emotional, lyrical, and sentimental works from the German musical repertoire, which resonate deeply with audiences and are immensely cherished by the German populace. The listeners in Ashgabat exhibited great enthusiasm and appreciation for the pieces performed, reveling in the rich cultural exchange fostered by this alliance.
As the final notes lingered in the air, the audience’s enthusiastic response took the performers by surprise. In a delightful gesture of appreciation for the prolonged applause, the musicians graciously treated the crowd to two delightful encores that were not initially included in the program: the exuberant “Liebesfreud” by Kreisler, alongside the poignant “O mio babbino caro” by Puccini. This spontaneous addition further enriched the evening, leaving attendees with lasting memories of a night filled with beautiful music and cultural celebration.
### Interview with Annegret Klenke, Violinist of the Klenke String Quartet
### Interview with Annegret Klenke, Violinist of the Klenke String Quartet
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Annegret. The gala concert during the European Union Culture Week in Turkmenistan sounded absolutely spectacular. Can you share what it felt like to perform in such a beautiful venue?
**Annegret Klenke:** Thank you for having me! Performing at the National Music and Drama Theatre named after Magtymguly was truly a magical experience. The architecture of the venue is stunning, and it created an intimate atmosphere that allowed us to connect with the audience on a deeper level.
**Interviewer:** The program featured a selection of works from renowned composers. How did you choose which pieces to include in the concert?
**Annegret Klenke:** We wanted to highlight the richness of German classical music while also providing a diverse experience for the audience. The pieces we selected from composers like Handel, Mozart, and Schumann not only showcase the beauty of the music but also celebrate our cultural heritage. Each composition has its own story which resonates with people, and we aimed to evoke a range of emotions throughout the evening.
**Interviewer:** The Klenke Quartet has been performing for over 30 years. What do you think keeps your performances fresh and engaging after such a long time?
**Annegret Klenke:** It’s all about the passion we have for music and our desire to keep exploring new interpretations and styles. We continually seek inspiration in the music itself, as well as in our interactions with diverse audiences. Each performance is unique, and we always look for ways to bring something new to the stage, whether it’s through collaboration with other artists or incorporating contemporary elements into our interpretations.
**Interviewer:** Collaborating with the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany must also add a special dimension to your performances. How does this partnership enhance your events?
**Annegret Klenke:** Absolutely. Working with the embassy not only promotes cultural exchange but also allows us to be ambassadors of our music. These collaborations help bridge gaps between cultures and foster understanding and appreciation. It’s a wonderful feeling to connect with people from different backgrounds through the universal language of music.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Annegret, for your insights. We look forward to seeing the Klenke Quartet’s influence continue to grow, both in Germany and abroad.
**Annegret Klenke:** Thank you! It’s a pleasure to share our love for music with everyone, and we hope to inspire future generations of musicians and music lovers alike.