Schumaj Duo

Monday, April 13, 2026

12 PM

We are the Schumaj Duo—California and Baja California musicians bonded by our shared passion for music and relentless pursuit of artistic expression. Our journey, rooted in collaborative recitals and genre-spanning experimentation, has shaped a style that combines virtuosity with emotional depth. We strive to share music’s beauty through performances that resonate deeply, sparking inspiration and human connection.

Violinist Sofia Magallanes began her musical journey in 2012 at the Centro de Artes Musicales (CAM). She is currently completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Violin Performance at the Escuela Superior de Música de Baja California (ESMBC), studying under renowned instructor Tamara Petrosyan. Sofia has showcased her artistry with orchestras, string ensembles, and as a soloist. Her career has taken her to prominent cultural venues and events across Baja California and Mexico City, solidifying her reputation as a rising talent. Recognized for her professional potential, she was selected for Talentos de Baja California, a prestigious program dedicated to nurturing emerging artists.

Pianist Alberto Guerrero, a native of Tijuana, Baja California, began his studies in 2004 at the Playas de Tijuana Cultural Center. By 2005, he joined the Tijuana Youth Symphony (SJT) under the mentorship of Oxana Bulgakova. In 2011, he enrolled at the National Institute of Fine Arts’ Escuela Superior de Música (ESM), where he honed his craft in classical piano under Ana María Tradatti. His training expanded in 2013 with a year-long exchange at the Escuela Superior de Artes de Yucatan (ESAY), studying under pianist Marieli Sosa. Alberto graduated in 2016 and has since performed at venues nationwide, collaborating with regional ensembles and crafting dynamic performances. His accolades include second prize at the Mexicali Piano Biennial Competition and first prize in the ESM’s internal competition. He is a current recipient of a PECDA grant for emerging artists in Baja California.

The Schumaj Duo, a violin and piano ensemble, presents “Through the Seasons”—a concert that takes audiences on a musical journey inspired by the four seasons: spring’s renewal, summer’s intensity, autumn’s nostalgia, and winter’s serenity.

Between the strings of the violin and the hammers of the piano, they craft an atmosphere brimming with emotion and nuance, delivering an intimate and moving experience that celebrates nature’s cyclical beauty and the evocative power of music.

PROGRAM

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
The Seasons, Op. 37a, October: Autumn Song (D minor)

Astor Piazzolla
Invierno Porteño

Antonio Vivaldi
Concerto No. 4 in F minor, Op. 8, RV 297, "Winter" (L'inverno)

1. Allegro non molto (in F minor)

2. Largo (in E♭ major)

3. Allegro (in F minor)

Ludwig van Beethoven
Sonata Op. 24 No. 5

Antonio Vivaldi
Concerto No. 2 in G minor, Op. 8, RV 315, "Summer" (L'estate)

1. Allegro non molto (in G minor)

2. Adagio e piano – Presto e forte (in G minor)

3. Presto (in G minor)

Astor Piazzolla
Verano Porteño

Free concerts at noon every Monday year-round . . . no wonder the Mini-Concerts are the longest-running and one of the most popular classical music series at the library! This series was founded by Glenna Hazleton in 1970 at the Athenaeum, and has been going strong ever since. The concerts feature both local and touring musicians, prize-winning students, university music faculty members, local chamber ensembles. . . and the repertoire also includes jazz, folk, and world music. There are no reservations, no tickets . . . just line up at the side door of the Athenaeum before noon. (Donations are always welcome!) Mini-Concerts take place every Monday at noon and last about an hour.

The concerts will be in person at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. There are no physical tickets for these events. Doors open at 11:40 a.m. Last entry is at 12:10 p.m. or once capacity is reached. Seating is first-come; first-served. Reservations are not necessary, but seating is limited.