New horizons are in vision for the new executive director of the Oregon Bach Festival, with the festival set to run parallel this June and July with what may be the largest athletic field day in the Eugene’s history: the 2008 U.S. Track and Field Olympic Trials.
The Bach festival, in its 39th year, must face hosting a classical music tribute amidst the prestigious athletic event. But, John Evans, who accepted the head position during summer, isn’t worried.
“I never, ever run away from a challenge,” Evans said in a press conference Thursday.
As the track and field competitors tackle new ground at Hayward Field, Evans will attempt to arouse not just Eugene with the impressive, 17-day-long lineup – he wants to woo Portland, too.
“I see this as a long-term investment, with the festival reaching out to a broader state-wide audience year on year, while presenting leading Portland-based artists and ensembles here in years to come,” Evans said.
The event’s opening will be held in Portland, coinciding with the University’s expansion there, he said.
The music of German legendary composer Johann Sebastian Bach is the focus of the event, but the musical landscape presented will extend much further.
Sarah Chung, the 26-year-old violin virtuoso who was accepted to the Juilliard School at age six as a prodigy, will perform at the event.
Other artists include Garrison Keillor, who hosts a radio variety show, piano masterminds The 5 Browns, the Shanghai String Quartet and San Francisco-based conductor Nicholas McGegan.
In Eugene, Evans hopes to weave culture into the trials. The festival will honor Nike founder Bill Bowerman, who has been an integral patron of the event, with a gala tribute. The gala will include a speech by University President Dave Frohnmayer and University donor and Nike co-founder Phil Knight, Evans said.
The festival’s collaboration with Nike will not only draw fans’ attention to the festival, but the sports giant will develop the marketing, branding for Evans.
The event will run from June 27 through July 13. Visit www.oregonbachfestival.com for a full schedule of events and more information.