If you are a fan of live music, you have to appreciate what the Friends of Chamber Music brings to Kiggins Hall each year.
Now in its 71st year, the Friends of Chamber Music ushers in world-class musicians and ensembles to play in the intimate surroundings of Kiggins Hall at the gorgeous Emma Willard School in Troy.
Chamber music, or music in which only one instrument plays each line, is often called the music closest to the composer’s heart, because it is written to be played and heard by confidants, friends and peers.
Founded in 1949 by composer and educator Martha Beck Carragan, Friends of Chamber Music of Troy, New York aims to expand the audience for a full range of chamber music — both the known and the new — played by world-class musicians and ensembles, many of whom we are introducing to the Capital District for the first time.
Friends of Chamber Music presents a series of five concerts each year, building on a tradition of showcasing excellent musicians and exceptional programming at prices that allow a diverse audience to experience this beautiful music.
Jennifer Laursen, the clerk of the programming committee, holds the responsibility of scheduling the acts for each season. It’s a unique experience, she said, as “everyone wraps around the performance. You’re really close and personal,” as patrons consume both the auditory magic and observe the non-verbal communication between the musicians as they perform.
In 2018, Friends of Chamber Music became a regular stop on the triennial Banff International String Quartet Winner’s Tour.
The 2019-2020 season starts with a performance from the Kenari Quartet on Saturday, Oct. 12, at 7:30 p.m.
