Presbyterian College’s String Quintet and Orchestra filled Edmunds Hall with elegance, energy, and pure musical tradition Thursday night, Nov. 21, at 7:30 p.m., presenting their aptly titled “Classical” Concert. The concert was a master class in class. Hosted as always by Dr. Giovani Briguente—who not only expertly entertained but also educated the audience—the evening became a lively exploration of the classics of classical music from the Classical period.
From the two flutists, Bianca Buell and Lauryn Kromka, anchoring the back row, to the fascinating fingers of front-row violin soloist Lauren Smoak, the orchestra delivered a concert of warmth, brilliance, and thoughtful musicianship. Edmunds Hall was packed with PC alumni, students, and local Clinton residents, all eager for a night of music that felt both timeless and refreshingly alive.
The PC String Quintet opened the program with Haydn—the Father of the Classical period—followed by Mendelssohn, whose works bridge into the late Classical style. Both pieces were intimate, inviting selections that set the perfect tone for the evening. Shostakovich’s Waltz No. 2 offered a masterful example of the composer’s signature musical irony, while Corelli’s Concerto Grosso Op. 6, No. 8, though written for Christmas, proved why it appears year-round as a quintessential representation of Italian Baroque classicality.
Student soloist Lauren Smoak captivated the audience with Accolay’s famous one-movement Violin Concerto, delivering a performance filled with precision, emotion, and poise. The program closed with Mozart’s Divertimento in D Major, returning the night to the perfect balance and clarity that opened it. With so many gems from the Classical era, the evening proved one thing for certain: it doesn’t get any classier than this.
Before the final applause faded, Dr. Briguente also teased what’s next for the program—promising big things for next semester’s concert series, including a highly anticipated solo by violist Alexander Williams. Presbyterian College also invites the community to return for the holiday season with “Light of the World” — Christmas at PC on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in Belk Auditorium. An afternoon of festive music, worship, and community awaits. We hope to see you there!
(Personal Note to Dr. Gustafson, President of Presbyterian College)
Madam President, protect Dr. Giovani Briguente at all costs. The program he is building—and the students he is shaping—are not only enriching their own lives and the lives of their fellow students; they are enriching the entire cultural fabric of Clinton. In this humble writer’s opinion, Dr. Briguente brings a level of artistic and educational value to Presbyterian College and to our community that is unmatched. His work is elevating PC, uplifting our town, and creating a legacy that deserves our full support.
