Close Conversations - The (He)Art of Chamber Music

Join RIAM Director Deborah Kelleher as she discovers the delights of one of classical music's greatest forms - chamber music.

Description

This lively series will explore why this music, beyond solo repertoire, opera or even the mighty orchestra, is regarded as the essence of true musicianship. The series carries an 'access all areas' free pass to RIAM's ChamberFest (April 2026).

 

Origins of Elegance: the birth of chamber music

From courtly salons to Beethoven's powerhouse string quartets - tracing the roots of chamber music in the Classical era.

 

 

Romantic Conversations: up close and personal

Exploring Schubert, Brahms, and Mendelssohn - how chamber music became a vessel for deep personal expression

 

 

Modern Voices: innovation and intimacy in the 20th Century

Debussy, Bartók, Shostakovich - redefining chamber music in times of upheaval.

 

 

Beyond borders: Folk, Jazz, and Global Influences

How chamber music absorbed and reflected diverse musical traditions - from Dvořák to Piazzolla.

 

 

Living dialogues: chamber music today

Contemporary composers and ensembles — where is chamber music headed in the 21st century?

 

Please see below the dates for this 5 session course:

 

  • 23rd January 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM
  • 30th January 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM
  • 6th February 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM
  • 13th February 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM
  • 20th February 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM

Prerequisites

Participants must be 18+

Tutors

Deborah Kelleher (Director, RIAM)

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