Cleveland Chamber Music Society
Alexi Kenney, violin, with Janice Carissa, piano
Alexi Kenney, violin, with Janice Carissa, piano
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Alexi Kenney and Janice Carissa bring together a thoughtfully curated program that has been celebrated for its striking blend of established repertoire and fresh perspectives. Critics have noted how naturally the pieces connect, from the “captivating” opening of Inti Figgis-Vizueta’s Earthmaker into the energy of Piazzolla’s Le Grand Tango, to Sibelius’s characterful miniatures that feel almost like virtuosic salon pieces.
A newly commissioned work by Michi Wiancko adds a fresh, unpredictable element, described as full of contrast and life, while Schnittke’s Violin Sonata brings intensity without losing a sense of playfulness and humanity. The program closes with Britten’s early suite, rounding things out with clarity and charm. Together, it’s a program that feels both carefully put together and alive: balancing bold, modern sounds with expressive classics, and showcasing the duo’s ability to move easily between power, intimacy, and color.
“Spellbinding” – The New York Times
About the Artists
About the Artists
Born in the Bay Area, Alexi Kenney has built much of his musical life on the East Coast, with formative studies at the New England Conservatory in Boston and participation in the Bowers Program at the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. He has also appeared as a soloist with ensembles including the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Chamber music remains central to his work, and he is a frequent presence at festivals around the country. Kenney is also a founding member of Owls, an unconventional quartet described by The New York Times as a “dream group.”
Away from the stage, he enjoys hojicha, has a strong interest in modern design and architecture, and loves baking for friends. He’s also known for long walks in whatever city he’s visiting, often accompanied by podcasts or the music of Bach.
A Gilmore Young Artist and winner of Salon de Virtuosi, Janice Carissa has “the multicolored highlights of amature pianist” (Philadelphia Inquirer) with playing that “conveys a vivid story.” (Chicago Classical Review). She has appeared on stages including the Sydney Opera House, Carnegie Hall, the United Nations, the Kennedy Center,Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.Following her Philadelphia Orchestra debut at age sixteen, she has played with Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and the Pittsburgh, San Diego, Nashville, Kansas City, Houston, and Jakarta symphonies, as well as the Minnesota and Florida orchestras and ProMusica Chamber Orchestra of Columbus, among others. Janice’s passion for chamber music has led her to Bravo! Vail, where she was a piano fellow, and Newport Classical where she was a 2026 Festival Artist.
Born in Indonesia, Janice came to the U.S. in 2013 to study at the Curtis Institute of Music on full scholarship and later earned her master’s degree from The Juilliard School. Away from the piano, she is an avid foodie and photographer
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