The award-winning Master Players Concert Series ("Master Players") serves as the cultural ambassador for the University of Delaware. Producing Artistic Director Sean Gao, international artist and University of Delaware Trustees Distinguished Professor of Music, brings a rich and wide array of world-class musicians to the UD campus and local communities. The series' hallmarks are its high artistic standards, the Delaware debuts of remarkable artists, and its diverse and distinctive programming. Master Players is a unit of the UD College of Arts and Sciences in collaboration with the UD School of Music.

The 2025-2026 Season

Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, 3 p.m. | Season Opening Concert

We open our 22nd season with the dazzling voices of accordion and flute, as rising stars Hanzhi Wang and Anthony Trionfo bring their breathtaking artistry to Delaware. Unlikely companions become magical partners when these two instruments unite in the first of its kind concert in Master Players history. The two young virtuosos— first prize winners of New York’s prestigious Young Concert Artists Competition — invite you into a world of shimmering color, daring virtuosity and unforgettable sound.

Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, 3 p.m. | Great Musical Family

Experience the brilliance of music and love intertwined, as celebrated soloists Julian Schwarz and Marika Bournaki bring their shared passion to the stage. This husband-and-wife duo transforms the cello-piano recital into an unforgettable journey of artistry and emotion. The rich sound of UD’s new Steinway concert piano will also make for a memorable experience.

Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, 3 p.m. | Blending Traditions - Quey Percussion Duo

UD’s own faculty percussionists Gene Koshinski and Tim Broscious, the dynamic founding members behind the world-renowned Quey Percussion Duo, bring their fiery artistry to the Master Players stage. Journey with them through rhythms and traditions from around the world in a concert bursting with creativity, delightful surprises and joy.

Saturday, March 14, 2026, 3 p.m. | Gold Medalist

Discover the seductive vocal quality of the saxophone performed by international sensation Valentin Kovalev. First prize winner of New York’s Concert Artists Guild International Competition, he invites you to an enchanting recital of masterpieces brimming with the romantic warmth and brilliance of one of the world’s most beloved instruments. Joining Valentin on stage is UD’s faculty collaborative pianist Mark Livshits. A Grammy Award-winning Steinway pianist, Livshits will make his Master Players debut as a collaborator of many of the world’s leading musicians.

Saturday, April 25, 2026, 3 p.m. | Sean Gao & Friends

Celebrate 25 years of music-making, teaching, presenting, composing, and cultural exchange with Sean Gao, whose journey at UD began with the first class he taught at 9 am on September 11, 2001. Joined by an array of inspirational musicians (to be announced in the spring), he leads a chamber music concert that closes our 22nd season with many stories from his quarter-of-a-century UD experience and the enduring power of live music.

All concerts take place in Gore Recital Hall in the Roselle Center for the Arts

Tickets:

Season Subscriptions and Single Tickets are now available!

Tickets are $35 for adults; $30 for seniors and UD faculty, staff, and alumni; and $10 for students. To learn more and purchase tickets, visit the udel.edu/masterplayers