"If you play it, they will come," best describes my artistic vision. Whether we are performing early music of Claudio Monteverdi with the music of Luigi Nono, the late string quintets of Mozart, Carlos Chávez with the Tambuco Percussion Ensemble, or the latest new chamber work of Elliott Carter, I believe that it is essential to maintain the highest standards of formal art music with a deep concern for accessibility for the novice listener. I do not reduce my artistic expectations for any audience member. Rather, I strive to build bridges of listening competency by creating an overall artistic environment where the greatest musical achievements and challenges are rendered more accessible by intelligent programs and concerts. This sustained commitment to music helps both the novice and the enthusiast in the exploration of the multiple layers of intellect, emotion and spirituality contained in all compelling works of musical genius.

Jeff von der Schmidt, Artistic Director