What is chamber music?

Chamber music sounds like a lively conversation between a small group of friends – not with words, but with musical notes. The spotlight moves from player to player. Each stands out as an individual with a musical opinion, but their statements weave together into a sublime and lively sound.

In some ways, chamber music is a precursor of jazz; it features the same spontaneity, the give and take of urgent dialogue (as in passing a ball at a sports event), arguments and resolutions, humor and camaraderie.

A concert usually consists of three to eight players, combining different string instruments and often includes a piano, vocalists or winds.

Close Encounters With Music chamber programs are framed in intriguing themes with illuminating introductions to each concert, designed to extend the pleasure of the music itself.