Explore the World of Ensemble Music with the Chamber Music Society

With so many renowned organizations performing in Lincoln Square—NYC Ballet, the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic—smaller arts organizations can be easily, but misguidedly, overlooked. One such needle in the hay stack—the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (CMS). Performing in Alice Tully Hall, the CMS has been mesmerizing audiences since its founding in 1969.

While larger performing groups can easily sweep you away with the sheer intensity of the accumulated instruments, chamber players elevate each player’s prowess and showcase the unique group dynamic. CMS artists include artistic directors and spouses David Finckel and Wu Han, seven talented vocalists, over one hundred musicians, and eight ensembles. CMS’s concerts and lectures take place throughout the week, with a wide range of themes. Programs for adults include the “Inside Chamber” series, which provides lectures on masterworks and “Master Class Series,” in which artists share their knowledge and experience. For the younger crowd, CMS produces family and school programs, each tailored to different age levels.

On Tuesday, October 17, String Sonorities opens with “lush and bracing works certain to delight the ear.” Later in the week, Chad Hoopes (violin) and Anne-Marie McDermott (piano) will play at a sold out performance, but you can still hear Beethoven, Mozart, and more later this month with the Emerson String Quartet: Farewell Performance and Mozart, Britten, Ibert, and Jolivet. CMS will also be celebrating Sergei Rachmaninoff’s 150^th birthday this year by performing his work, such as his Trio Élégiaque in D minor for Piano, Violin, and Cello, Op. 9 on November 1.

The fall season is bursting with cultural activities in Lincoln Square, and CMS performances should not be missed! Be sure to visit the CMS website to learn more about concerts and purchase tickets.

Photo Credit: Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center