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
Following her previous acclaimed music appreciation talks, Join RIAM Director Deborah Kelleher as she discovers the delights of one of classical music's greatest forms - Chamber Music.
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.
Participants will learn, enjoy and be inspired by these great works in the company of fellow music lovers for one magical morning per week.
This series is suitable for both music aficionados and beginners alike and will entitle registrants to a subsequent 'access all areas' free pass to RIAM's ChamberFest (April 2026).
Note:
In addition to "In-person" attendence, a potential Online Participation option is currently being explored and may become available for this course.
However, at this stage we recommend to only register if you can attend "in person". (Please watch this space for updates regarding an Online option.)
Course Program:
Session 1: (23rd January 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM)
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.
Session 2: (30th January 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM)
Romantic Conversations: up close and personal
Exploring Schubert, Brahms, and Mendelssohn - how chamber music became a vessel for deep personal expression
Session 3: (6th February 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM)
Modern Voices: innovation and intimacy in the 20th Century
Debussy, Bartók, Shostakovich - redefining chamber music in times of upheaval.
Session 4: (13th February 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM)
Beyond borders: Folk, Jazz, and Global Influences
How chamber music absorbed and reflected diverse musical traditions - from Dvořák to Piazzolla.
Session 5: (20th February 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM)
Living dialogues: chamber music today
Contemporary composers and ensembles — where is chamber music headed in the 21st century?
Prerequisites
Participants must be 18+
Tutors
Deborah Kelleher (Director, RIAM)