Hallmarks of The Festival

Written By: Marlene Osteen | Issue: June 2023

The Viano String Quartet

When the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival (HCCMF) rolls out its 42nd season this month, it will once again offer a feast of music, difficult to resist. From its inception, HCCMF has established a nationwide reputation for the high quality of its artists and its innovative programs. This year, as always, the choices for partaking are varied and intriguing.

Developing diverse programs and engaging with audiences on multiples levels is a unique hallmark of the festival. Indeed, the world of chamber music at HCCMF has long included programming that weaves music with community interests – ensuring that extraordinary chamber music is accessible to both seasoned and new audiences in spaces beyond the concert hall.

This summer, the undiminished creativity of the team at HCCMF is evident in three very distinctive programs:

June 25, 5:30 P.M.: “Painting with Music” – The magnificent art of the Ann Lea Gallery in Cashiers provides the stimulation and inspiration for the Rasa String Quartet who will perform scintillating pieces from French impressionist composers Maurice Ravel and Claude Debussy. Dedicated to moving their audiences towards a feeling that is true to their namesake (Rasa refers to the power of an artform to induce emotion) their goal is to make classical culture more accessible. Wine and Hors d’oeuvres will be served. Sponsored by J.F. and Peggy Bryan.

July 6, 5:00 P.M.: “Bach in a Sacred Space” – The majesty of the historic small chapel of the Episcopal Church of the Incarnation in Highlands is a magical and fitting setting for the solo works of Bach, Ysaye and Paganini. Violinist Robyn Bollinger, recently named Concertmaster of the Detroit Symphony will perform. An artist at the forefront of classical music, Bollinger enjoys a versatile career ranging from soloist to chamber musician to orchestra leader and pedagogue. Refreshments will follow the performance. Sponsored by Alfred Kennedy and Bill Kenney.

July 20, 5:30 P.M.: “Martinis and Mozart” – The Orchard House at Old Edwards Farm welcomes you to an evening of glitz and glamour. Guests will enjoy the exquisite pairing of cocktails and a concert by the Viano String Quartet with Jesse McCandless on clarinet performing Mozart’s Quintet for Clarinet & Strings. The Viano String Quartet has performed across the globe and captured international attention. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres prior to the performance, cash bar is also available. Sponsored by Dianne and Myron Mall.

For tickets and more information, visit h-cmusicfestival.org, or call the festival at (828) 526-9060.