Since 1990, the Piatigorsky Foundation has been bringing the joy of live classical music performances to communities across the United States.

Established as a nonprofit in 1991, the organization is dedicated to reaching audiences of all kinds — from students and seniors to residents of geographically remote areas — by presenting concerts in familiar, community-centered spaces. Rather than traditional concert halls, Piatigorsky performances are often held in schools, churches, libraries, hospitals, and community centers — virtually anywhere people gather. 

These hour-long concerts are designed to be informal, engaging, and interactive, helping make classical music more accessible and meaningful to everyday audiences. The Foundation’s mission is rooted in several key goals: making live classical music an integral part of community life, providing performance opportunities for both established and emerging artists, cultivating new audiences, and enriching underserved areas with high-quality musical experiences. 

Each year, their performances reach more than 10,000 people nationwide, with over 200 concerts presented in more than 20 states this season alone.

That mission will soon come to life in Superior, as the Mineral County Performing Arts Council hosts an upcoming Piatigorsky Foundation concert.

“Piatigorsky is one of my favorite events both because they do all the legwork in setting up a tour in our area, as well as the concerts themselves,” explains MCPAC Treasurer, Jim Goss. “The one minor challenge is that we don't get a whole lot of notice about when they can perform, but the timing this year is good in that I was able to get flyers printed and available for people to pick up at the Spring Gala ahead of the May 14th performance.” 

Goss also highlighted the unique value of live performance in today’s digital world. 

“Classical music and live music generally struggle to remain relevant in the age of YouTube and other streaming music sources, but when witnessing these performances live, there is a "je ne sais quoi" that simply cannot be captured virtually. What's especially notable this time around is that we have a vocal recital format with piano accompaniment, rather than only instruments.”

The May 14 performance will feature tenor Kelly W. Burns and pianist Dr. Nicholas Shaneyfelt, two accomplished musicians with extensive national and international experience. 

Burns brings a dynamic background in both opera and musical theater, with a repertoire spanning more than 400 years. He has performed with numerous respected organizations, including Chautauqua Opera, Opera Roanoke, Memphis Symphony Chamber Orchestra, and the Oxford Shakespeare Festival. Shaneyfelt, an Assistant Professor of Music in Collaborative Piano at Luther College in Iowa, completed his doctoral studies at the University of Michigan. In addition to his academic work, he performs internationally and serves as Associate Director of the International Music Festival of the Adriatic in Duino, Italy. Together, the duo promises an evening of engaging music, storytelling, and artistry in an intimate setting.

Local organizers expressed appreciation for the opportunity to host such high-caliber performers. The concert will offer residents a rare chance to experience live classical music up close, in a space known for its excellent acoustics and welcoming atmosphere. 

The performance will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, at the LDS Church, 117 Moats Lane in Superior. Admission is free, with donations deeply appreciated. Complimentary refreshments will be offered following the production. 

More information is available at www.mineralcountyperformingartscouncil.org.