During the weekend of March 29-30, music enthusiasts in the Eastern Panhandle will have a unique opportunity to experience an unusual and fascinating form of chamber music. The Friends of Music is hosting two performances featuring the Two Rivers Chamber Orchestra, showcasing nonets—compositions written for ensembles of nine musicians. This rare musical format will highlight works by three lesser-known composers: Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Josef Foerster, and Bohuslav Martinu. These concerts aim to introduce audiences to these talented yet underappreciated figures in classical music history.
A Celebration of Rare Chamber Music
In the heart of spring, the Friends of Music invites listeners to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of nonets. The first concert takes place on Saturday, March 29, at 7:30 p.m., in the elegant Shipley Recital Hall located within the Frank Arts Center on Shepherd University’s West Campus in Shepherdstown. The second performance, a Sunday matinee, begins at 3:00 p.m. at the historic Zion Episcopal Church in Charles Town.
The repertoire includes a F minor Nonet by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, whose mixed heritage inspired his richly romantic compositions. Following this piece, audiences will enjoy nonets by Josef Foerster and Bohuslav Martinu. While both composers hailed from Bohemia, their musical styles diverge significantly. Foerster's work reflects a pastoral charm rooted in his homeland, whereas Martinu's piece embodies the vibrant wit and urbanity characteristic of Paris between the wars.
Under the direction of Jed Gaylin, the orchestra’s music director, each concert will also feature pre-performance talks. These insightful discussions, starting at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, offer attendees a deeper understanding of the evening's selections.
Admission is complimentary for Friends of Music members, while general admission costs $40 per person. Tickets are available online, via mail, or at the venue if space permits. Credit cards are accepted, and further details can be found through the organization’s contact information.
This event is made possible thanks to generous support from various foundations and sponsors, including the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History, the National Endowment for the Arts, and several local organizations.
For more information about the Friends of Music and their ongoing commitment to promoting musical excellence, visit their official website.
From a listener's perspective, these concerts provide an invaluable chance to explore seldom-heard compositions that enrich our understanding of classical music's diversity. By bringing attention to overlooked talents like Coleridge-Taylor, Foerster, and Martinu, the Friends of Music not only entertain but also educate their audience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind less familiar works. Such initiatives remind us of the importance of supporting cultural institutions that champion underrepresented voices in the arts.