Classical Arts Society of Washington: The Devil’s Trill
Classical Arts Society of Washington presents “The Devil’s Trill,” a Halloween-themed classical concert featuring violinist Siwoo Kim and pianist Christopher Schmitt. The program centers on virtuosic and supernatural works, including Tartini’s “Devil’s Trill” Sonata, Ysaÿe’s solo violin sonata, Schubert’s “Erlkönig,” Gluck’s “Dance of the Blessed Spirits,” and Paganini’s “La Campanella.”
The concert explores the legends and eerie inspirations behind the music. Tartini’s sonata is associated with his dream of hearing the Devil perform a seductive violin solo, while Ysaÿe’s work draws on Bach and the Gregorian chant “Dies Irae.” Schubert’s piece evokes Goethe’s tale of a desperate father riding through a storm to save his ailing son from the supernatural Erl-King, and Paganini’s extraordinary technique fueled rumors that he had made a pact with Satan.
When: Friday, October 30, 2026, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Schedule: A reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres begins at 6:30 p.m. The concert starts at 7:15 p.m. and the event concludes at 9:30 p.m.
Program: Tartini’s “Devil’s Trill” Sonata, arranged by Fritz Kreisler, approximately 13 minutes; Schuman’s Sonata No. 1 in A minor, Op. 105, approximately 18 minutes; intermission; Ysaÿe’s Sonata, Op. 27 No. 2 for solo violin, approximately 13 minutes; Schubert/Ernst’s “Der Erlkönig,” approximately 5 minutes; Gluck’s “Dance of the Blessed Spirits,” approximately 5 minutes; and Paganini’s “La Campanella,” approximately 5 minutes.
Performers: Siwoo Kim, violin, and Christopher Schmitt, piano.
Tickets: Members pay $60 using the RSVP option; nonmembers pay $65 through the ticket purchase option. The ticket includes hors d’oeuvres and drinks from an open wine and beer bar.
Venue: Arts Club of Washington, 2017 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20006.
Admission: The concert is open to the public.
Reservations: Members may cancel without penalty until the day before the event.
Accessibility: Accessibility information is not specified.