Pianist Michael Finlay opens Harmonia Concert Series with an all-Chopin program
Pianist Michael Finlay will launch the 2025-26 season of the Harmonia Concert Series on Sunday, Sept. 14, with an all-Chopin program.
The concert will be held at 3 p.m. at Faith Community United Church of Christ, 192 S. Center St. in Bensenville. There will be a freewill offering. All are welcome.
The program presents Chopin's creative arc in one evening — the complete Four Scherzos (Op. 20, 31, 39, 54) followed by Piano Sonata No. 3 in B minor, Op. 58. Chopin's four Scherzos feel like a miniature biography — each captures a distinct moment in his life and craft.
“Together they lead naturally to the towering Third Sonata,” Finlay said. “It's a rare chance to hear the journey from youthful fire to profound maturity in one sitting.
Finlay is the founder and artistic director of the series which brings artist-led solo and chamber programs to an intimate, community-centered venue. Harmonia pairs imaginative programming with welcoming outreach for listeners of all ages — offering high-caliber, accessible live music for Bensenville and the greater Chicago area.
He currently serves as director of music at Faith Community UCC and has recently returned from a three-week position at Interlochen Summer Camp. The camp is a world-renowned artists education program which provides a rigorous environment for young artists to hone their skills with professional instructors.
Finlay is a distinguished concert soloist and chamber musician. He is acclaimed for his “profound expressive depth” (USA News) and “impressive technical command” (Artist Highlight). Finlay maintains an active international schedule with recent performances in Catania (Italy), Montreal and Toronto as well as Austin, San Antonio, Denver and Atlanta.
He began his studies with Kathryn Mishell in Austin, Texas, and at the age of 15 left home to attend the Interlochen Arts Academy on full scholarship. He earned his bachelor’s degree at the Cleveland Institute of Music, studying with Paul Schenly, Antonio Pompa-Baldi and Kathryn Brown; a Master’s at the Peabody Conservatory with Yong Hi Moon; and a Doctorate at the University of Montreal under Marc Durand.
For information, visit faithcommunityucc.com/ or facebook.com/harmoniaconcerts/.