Education and community outreach is an important part of our mission for building sustainable audiences and preserving chamber music for future generations. Throughout the year, SCMS provides opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the joys of chamber music with entertaining, educational and accessible programs.
"What is Chamber Music?"
The definition of chamber music has evolved over time. In the 17th century,
chamber music referred to vocal or instrumental music performed in a
room in a house, as opposed to a church or theatre (where operatic and
symphony music was typically heard). By the mid-18th century, chamber
music became known by the characteristics that are used to define it
today:
1. Music for a small instrumental ensemble (usually 2 to 9 players,
one player per part)
2. Music performed in an intimate setting
3. Music that stresses personal expression and the conversation among
players, rather than virtuosic display or leadership by a conductor
What makes chamber music unique is its democratic approach. Because there is no hierarchy or conductor to dictate the direction of the performance, each individual is responsible for engaging in a close musical dialogue with the other performers in the ensemble. Chamber music is the ultimate in collaboration, and relies upon the collective instincts, experience, knowledge and talents of its participants to guide the process of interpreting, rehearsing and performing.
Although chamber music historically referred to western classical music written for small ensembles, such as the string quartet, today many kinds of musical styles and ensembles are also considered chamber music.
Chamber Music in the Classroom
Local teaching artists visit middle and high school music classes to give one-on-one and small chamber group coaching.
Family Concerts
During both our Winter and Summer Festivals, our family concerts introduce children ages 5-10 to chamber music in a entertaining format that is fun for the whole family.
Open Rehearsals
Select Summer Festival rehearsals are open to the public, giving audience members and students a chance to observe professional musicians practicing in preparation for a concert.
Lecture Series
SCMS presents stimulating lectures each Winter and Summer festival by regional experts, designed to inform and delight listeners of all levels and backgrounds.
Pre-concert Recitals
Preceding each main-series concert, one or two festival musicians perform works from the solo repertoire, and include informal commentary on the music performed. Recitals last 30-minutes and are free.
Music Under the Stars
Each night during the Summer Festival both the pre-concert recital and main concert are broadcast live outside. A great opportunity for those with children or anyone seeking a less formal atmosphere, these broadcasts are open to everyone and free of charge.
Radio broadcasts
Classical KING FM 98.1 broadcasts live all Summer and Winter Festival main-series concerts, reaching approximately 15,000 listeners throughout the Puget Sound region each night. Portions of concerts are selected for broadcast on NPR's "Performance Today" heard on 300 stations nationwide.