The art of chamber music, described by Goethe as “rational people conversing” is sometimes not quite so democratic, as composers, inspired by instruments, players or both, gave individuals special opportunities to shine. Bach’s keyboard concertos were vehicles for demonstrations of his own virtuosity; Schubert was in love with the singing voice of the violin; Norwegian composer Johan Halvorsen found in Handel’s passacaglia a vehicle for duo fireworks; and Mendelssohn, whose technique knew no limits, composed his breathtaking chamber concerto featuring violin and piano at the age of 14.

Performers
Michael Stephen Brown, Piano
Kristin Lee, Violin
Richard Lin, Violin
James Thompson, Violin
Matthew Lipman, Viola
Mihai Marica, Cello
Joseph H. Conyers, Double Bass