In a matter of weeks, the prestigious Rockport Chamber Music Festival will commence, marking not only the Shalin Liu Center’s 15th anniversary but also continuing a decades-long tradition of presenting the finest chamber music. This season, featuring 20 concerts from June 13th to July 13th, with additional dates into early August, showcases an array of musicians, from emerging talents to seasoned legends. As has been customary since its establishment, the festival provides opportunities to experience world premieres alongside masterful interpretations of classical favorites within the intimate confines of a 330-seat venue, illuminated by the Atlantic Ocean's shimmering backdrop.

Discover Unparalleled Artistry and Emotion Through Chamber Music

Pioneering Performances by Esteemed Artists

As the curtain rises on this year's festivities, the opening night on June 13th presents a rare opportunity to witness Gramophone Magazine Hall of Fame pianist Angela Hewitt deliver a mesmerizing rendition of J.S. Bach's Goldberg Variations. Known for her exceptional subtlety, tonal beauty, and instrumental mastery, Hewitt promises an unforgettable performance that resonates deeply with audiences.In addition, the festival is proud to host a dazzling two-concert event on July 5th and 6th, honoring the centennial anniversary of Gabriel Fauré's passing. These programs feature the French composer's most cherished chamber works, performed by an all-star lineup including violinist Joshua Bell, cellist Steven Isserlis, pianist Jeremy Denk, violinist Irène Duval, and violist Blythe Teh Engstroem. Their collective brilliance ensures a tribute befitting Fauré's legacy, bringing his timeless compositions to life in ways that both honor tradition and inspire innovation.

Anniversary Celebration with Timeless Masterpieces

To celebrate the Shalin Liu Performance Center's 15th anniversary, the GRAMMY-winning Parker Quartet collaborates with clarinetist Todd Palmer to perform Mozart's Clarinet Quintet and Copland's evocative Appalachian Spring. The latter holds particular significance, having graced the stage during the center's inaugural opening night in 2010. Its triumphant return underscores the enduring appeal of these works while reinforcing their connection to the venue's storied history.Furthermore, trumpeter Jens Lindemann joins forces with pianist Stephen Prutsman and violinist Chee-Yun for a program spanning Brahms's Horn Trio to Oscar Peterson's iconic Canadiana Suite on July 25. This performance includes a new commission by California-based composer Peter Golub, dedicated to those impacted by the recent tragic California wildfires. By blending classical elegance with contemporary relevance, this concert exemplifies the festival's commitment to fostering connections between past and present through music.

Contemporary Voices Reshaping Chamber Music Traditions

While the festival honors musical heritage, it also embraces modernity by showcasing innovative compositions and performances. Among the highlights are appearances by the Imani Winds, accompanied by steel pan drummer/composer Andy Akiho, as well as the Isidore Quartet with saxophonist/composer Stephen Banks. These collaborations push boundaries, introducing fresh perspectives to traditional forms while celebrating diversity within the genre.Another standout event features soprano Karen Slack, recipient of the 2025 GRAMMY Award, presenting a program dedicated to the legacies of seven African queens often overlooked in Western narratives. Through original works composed by Jasmine Barnes, Damien Geter, Jessie Montgomery, Shawn Okpebholo, Dave Ragland, Carlos Simon, and Joel Thompson, along with carefully curated traditional pieces and spoken texts, Slack crafts an evening-length recital that illuminates untold stories and challenges preconceived notions about cultural representation in music.

Culmination of Excellence: A Symphony of Talent

The festival reaches its zenith on July 13th with violinist Pinchas Zukerman and pianist Jan Lisiecki performing Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 21 and Violin Concerto No. 5 alongside the Rockport Festival Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Earl Lee, winner of the 2022 Sir Georg Solti Conducting Award. Together, they create a harmonious blend of technical virtuosity and emotional depth, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend.Music possesses an unparalleled ability to captivate, challenge, and transform. It invites listeners to immerse themselves fully in the moment, evoking visceral reactions that resonate profoundly. Join us for an extraordinary journey through the captivating world of chamber music, where each note tells a story waiting to be discovered.