The regular season of the 43rd edition of the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival which assembles world renowned classical musicians, takes place from July 6 to Aug. 11. Festival director, William Ransom, who has dedicated 24 years to curating this grand spectacle, remains as fervent today as he was at the inception of his tenure.
“The festival brings major artists together in astounding ways, brilliant young people who are destined to become the stars of tomorrow, and established artists,” said Ransom. “It serves as a true celebration of music at the highest level. The intimate setting of chamber music performances allows the artistry of the musicians to shine in a way that would not be apparent in larger venues. One of the most captivating elements of these evenings is the enthusiastic participation of the audiences. Their energy and appreciation contribute to the overall atmosphere, inspiring and uplifting the performers.”
Throughout the 5-week season, the festival will present a total of 27 concerts at various stages in Highlands and Cashiers. Performances will take place at the Highlands Performing Arts Center on Saturdays and Mondays at 5 p.m., as well as at the Village Green Commons in Cashiers on Sundays and Tuesdays at 5 p.m. Highlights of the season will be the return of music to the grand setting of the 1st Presbyterian Church of Highlands, as well as intimate performances at smaller, yet equally exquisite, venues scattered throughout the community.
Opening the regular season and making his festival debut on July 6 and 7 is the highly acclaimed violinist Scott Yoo, known for his role in the PBS show ‘Now Hear This’. This marks his festival debut and sets the tone for the exciting summer of extraordinary performances that lie ahead. Eagerly anticipated is the appearance of renowned clarinetist and 3-time Grammy nominee David Shifrin who debuts for Plateau audiences on July 20 and 21. Chamber music devotees can look forward to the Bastille Day celebration, on July 13 and 14 with Sara Sant’Ambrogio and Yuriy Bekker. On July 29 and 30 the festival welcomes the Dover Quartet, hailed as “one of the greatest quartets of the last 100 years” by BBC Music Magazine. Concluding the season with flare is a flight of performances by festival stars, including Alice Hong, David Coucheron, at the Gershon/Cohn Gala and Dinner on Aug. 11.
In addition, the festival offers a variety of innovative and fun programs. Intimate Salons and Feasts provide a unique and immersive musical experience while family concerts, Ice cream Socials, classes with CLE and an All-Star brass Quintet at the Bascom ensure that music lovers of all ages can engage and participate in the magic of the festival.
Details on these events, and other highlights and tickets are at www.h-cmusicfestival.org or by calling (828) 526-9060.