The mountain town of Telluride offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural enrichment. This winter, visitors can enjoy an exceptional experience by combining a day on the slopes with an evening of classical music at the Telluride Chamber Music (TCM) Happy Hour series. Held on January 15 and February 26 from 6-7 p.m., these events provide a relaxed setting for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to immerse themselves in chamber music performed by local talents.
The TCM Happy Hour series showcases the remarkable skills of local musicians, making classical music accessible and affordable. The first event features violinist Danny DeSantis and pianist Travis Fisher, while the second evening highlights Anneke Dean. Both performances are set in the intimate Telluride Arts Headquarters gallery, creating a perfect atmosphere for chamber music. Additionally, TCM plans to explore new venues later in the season, ensuring continued opportunities for audiences to enjoy world-class performances.
An Evening of Timeless Melodies: January 15 Performance
The inaugural performance of the TCM Happy Hour series takes place on January 15, featuring violinist Danny DeSantis and pianist Travis Fisher. This evening promises a diverse repertoire spanning several centuries of classical music. DeSantis, with over five decades of professional experience, will collaborate with Fisher to present an engaging and varied program that caters to all tastes.
This particular concert is designed to introduce chamber music to a broader audience in a casual environment. DeSantis and Fisher will perform pieces by renowned composers such as Gershwin, Brahms, and Bach. Fisher may also include solo compositions by Chopin, potentially extending the musical timeline to cover more than three centuries. DeSantis has been a beloved figure in Telluride's music scene for many years, performing across various genres and venues. His partnership with Fisher, who is equally respected for his compositions and performances, ensures an unforgettable evening of music. Together, they aim to bridge the gap between classical tradition and modern audiences, making this event a must-attend for anyone interested in exploring the beauty of chamber music.
A Farewell to a Beloved Venue: February 26 Performance
The final TCM Happy Hour series performance on February 26 holds special significance as it marks the last concert at the Telluride Arts Headquarters. Featuring Anneke Dean, this event promises to be both poignant and memorable. Dean, a long-standing member of the local music community and TCM's board, will perform one last time before relocating to continue her musical studies.
Beyond being a farewell to Dean, this concert symbolizes the end of an era for TCM at the Telluride Arts gallery. Since its inception in September 2021, the series has fostered a vibrant community of classical musicians and attracted diverse audiences. Claire Beard, TCM's Executive Director, emphasizes the importance of keeping the events free and accessible, which has led to standing-room-only crowds. The intimate setting of the gallery has perfectly complemented the nature of chamber music, allowing for a deep connection between performers and listeners. Despite the upcoming changes, TCM remains committed to offering free concerts and exploring new venues to ensure the continuation of this cherished tradition. The organization is also gaining momentum with its membership program, ensuring sustained support for future musical endeavors.