An international partnership led by an Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) Music professor is creating global opportunities for students while bringing Brazilian music to audiences on one of the world’s most celebrated stages.
On July 8, EKU Professor Dr. Bernardo Scarambone served as the featured solo pianist in the world premiere of “Brazilian Music for Piano and String Orchestra” at Brazil’s Amazonas Theater. The concert, part of the International Piano Seminar, marked Scarambone’s third performance at the renowned opera house.
“Each time feels like it is the first,” said Scarambone. “The history and beauty of the place are breathtaking; one can never get used to it.”
Scarambone is internationally recognized for his work in promoting the Brazilian piano repertoire. For the past eight years, Scarambone has worked alongside colleagues and composers to preserve and revive the unpublished works of Amazonian pianist and composer Lindalva Cruz. His work helped to bring Cruz’s music to life at the July concert’s world premiere.
“It feels like returning the forgotten music of Lindalva Cruz to its rightful place, the heart of Amazonas,” said Scarambone. “Now this piece will never be forgotten and can be played by anyone!”
Beyond the performance, the concert highlighted a partnership between EKU Music and the Federal University of Amazonas (UFAM) that provides students with opportunities to study alongside internationally recognized musicians.
“At EKU, excellence begins with exceptional faculty who challenge and inspire our students every day,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Dr. Scarambone’s work on the international stage reflects the talent of our faculty and the opportunities they create for students.”
In 2022, Scarambone worked with the U.S. Embassy in Brazil to establish an exchange program connecting EKU and UFAM through concerts, masterclasses and collaboration between musicians in the United States and Brazil. A few years ago, two Brazilian artists visited EKU as part of the program.
“Students were exposed to a completely different pedagogical view toward music and life and interacted with top artists from the Amazon,” said Scarambone. “It was an extremely enriching exchange that resulted in recordings, books, articles and more.”
The partnership continues to grow. Scarambone has already been invited to return for next year’s International Piano Seminar, concert and music festival, where UFAM plans to host musicians from EKU for another opportunity to perform, collaborate and strengthen the connection between the two universities.
Scarambone hopes to continue expanding the partnership by welcoming more Brazilian musicians to EKU and creating additional international experiences for EKU Music students.
EKU’s School of Music prepares students for successful careers in music, including one of the region’s leading pathways for aspiring music educators. Through hands-on teaching experiences, performance opportunities and mentorship from accomplished faculty, students graduate prepared to inspire the next generation of musicians in schools and communities.
By: Olivia Evans
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