Donna Gunn
With performances throughout the United States and abroad in Italy, the Netherlands, and Hungary, Donna’s never-ending passion for music is global in scope, delighting audiences everywhere. Be engaged, entertained, and enlightened with music that spans over 400 years. Her extensive research brings a distinctive quality to the stage – whether in a traditional recital setting or a dynamic outreach program to under-served communities, each compelling program interlaces music and scholarship in an accessible and unforgettable way. All programs are tailor-made; contact Donna to discuss your specific audience needs.
Programming Possibilities
It Was the Age of Revolution: Travel back to the Enlightenment where all things are possible! Experience the “Sturm and Drang” of the eighteenth century where music mirrored the dynamic social changes of the time. Hear the revolutionary developments in the piano and feel the shift in eighteenth-century thought as Donna invites you into the world of greats such as Beethoven, Haydn, and Mozart. References to her book, Discoveries from the Fortepiano (Oxford U. Press, 2015), provide a deep and rich experience in this engaging performance with commentary.
Papa Haydn and the Sonata: Follow the development of the eighteenth-century sonata through the life experiences of great composer-musician Franz Joseph Haydn. Find the sonata in Haydn’s personal study at the Esterhazy Summer Palace in Hungary, or at its debut on the concert stage in London. Donna brings it all together with photos from her experiences abroad, historical primary-source commentary, and artful performances of selected Haydn sonatas.
Music On the Trail: From Westport, Missouri to “Oregon Blue” join emigrants as they traverse the Oregon Trail. Primary-source journal entries and personal photos from Donna’s research transport audiences to the mid-1800’s as they sing American folk songs and experience the Oregon Trail. Classical music inspired by the folk songs is interwoven into the canvas of the covered wagon way of life. In 2017 this program was featured at OR~CA Trail Association National Convention and was an official NE150.org event at Cathedral of the Risen Christ School.
Patriotic Panoramas with Panache: Step behind the camera for a snapshot of our country’s history through the lens of the music that paints great American moments in time. Float in the harbor with Frances Scott Key as you watch the bombing of Fort McHenry, experience Julia Ward Howe’s angst on the eve of a Civil War battle, or climb to the top of Pike’s Peak with Katherine Lee Bates. After participants experience the songs as first inspired, Donna segues seamlessly and artfully into classical genre solos based on each patriotic tune.
Technical requirements: Piano in tune and in good working condition (acoustic piano preferred), audio system with microphone, PowerPoint projection capabilities
Maximum negotiable fee: Solo concert $1,500 (block booking rates available). Workshops and residencies to complement your arts experience are available.
Availability: No travel limitations or schedule restrictions at this time.
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