Newport Classical Music Festival Presents Four Special Chamber Music Concerts at The Breakers and Blithewold Mansion

Clockwise from top left: Chen-Lipman-Cho Trio, Parker Quartet, Trio Karénine, Cerus Saxophone Quartet.

Press photos available here.

2026 Newport Classical Music Festival
Four Special Chamber Music Performances

July 5: Parker Quartet
July 7: Cerus Saxophone Quartet
July 8: String Trios with Chen-Lipman-Cho
July 12: Trio Karénine

Tickets & Information: www.newportclassical.org/music-festival

Newport, RI – From July 2-19, 2026, the Newport Classical Music Festival will again turn this “City by the Sea” into a summer destination for music lovers, featuring 30 concerts across 11 unforgettable venues, from cliffside lawns to gilded mansions, including the stunning interiors of The Breakers, The Elms, Castle Hill Inn, Blithewold Mansion, Rosecliff Mansion, Redwood Library and Athenæum, and more. This year, Newport Classical focuses on the intimate genre of chamber music for trios and quartets in four special performances between July 5 and July 12 – the GRAMMY® Award-winning Parker Quartet (July 5 at The Breakers); Gold Medal Fischoff Competition winners the Cerus Saxophone Quartet (July 7 at Blithewold Mansion); supergroup trio violinist Stella Chen, violist Matthew Lipman, and cellist Brannon Cho (July 8 at The Breakers); and returning Festival favorites Trio Karénine (July 12 at The Breakers).

Internationally acclaimed for their “fearless, yet probingly beautiful” performances (The Strad), the GRAMMY® Award-winning Parker Quartet returns to Newport to perform at The Breakers on Sunday, July 5 at 8pm, in a vibrant program featuring Beethoven, Paul Wiancko, and Schubert. Renowned for their fresh interpretations of canonical works, the Quartet continues to chart a dynamic artistic path rooted in both tradition and innovation, having captivated audiences on the world’s premier stages for over two decades. The Parker Quartet's name is inspired by the Parker House, a Boston historic landmark. It celebrates the Quartet's New England home, honors the food legacy of the Parker House (Boston Cream Pie, Parker House Rolls), and pays homage to the great history of artists and writers who used the Parker House as a meeting point.

On Tuesday, July 7 at 11am, spend a beautiful morning on the outdoor grounds of Blithewold Mansion with the Cerus Saxophone Quartet. Named for the mythical wild bull tamed by Persephone, Cerus brings the same spirit to the stage, blending works from the traditional classical cannon and new contemporary works with energy, precision, and playful imagination. From Grieg and Piazzolla to living composers like Karalyn Schubring and Joan Perez-Villegas, the quartet’s program spans centuries and styles, showcasing the saxophone quartet as a dynamic voice in 21st-century chamber music.

Violinist Stella Chen, violist Matthew Lipman, and cellist Brannon Cho join forces for an evening of chamber music trios on Wednesday, July 8 at 8pm. These three powerhouse musicians have each garnered international acclaim and have performed on prestigious stages worldwide with some of the world’s top orchestras. They come together to present a program pairing beloved Classical trios by Mozart and Dohnányi with a contemporary work by Andreia Pinto-Correia inspired by the individual voices of the ensemble, set against the glamorous backdrop of The Breakers.

After a sold-out Newport Classical debut in 2024, Trio Karénine returns to Newport for their first performance at The Breakers on Sunday, July 12 at 8pm. Praised by Newport Classical patrons as “one of the top performances I have seen” and for defining “what chamber music is all about,” the Paris-based trio is celebrated for its extraordinary cohesion and precision. Founded in 2009, Trio Karénine has appeared in many of the world’s most prestigious concert halls, including Wigmore Hall, the Concertgebouw, the Philharmonie de Paris, and the Frick Collection in New York. Acclaimed for their imaginative interpretations of the classical canon, the trio presents a program featuring works by Rimski-Korsakov, Saint-Saëns, and Tchaikovsky.

For 57 years, Newport Classical has showcased classical music as a living art form, presenting artists and programs that are diverse and ever-evolving in intimate and iconic venues that make every performance one of a kind. The 2026 Festival will again offer audiences the opportunity to discover new composers, revisit beloved works, and experience timeless works offered from a fresh perspective. 

Highlights of the 2026 Festival include Opening Night with chamber orchestra Delirium Musicum; a celebration of the Golden Age of Opera with Lawrence Brownlee and Erin Morley; solo piano performances by Michelle Cann and Dmitry Shishkin, as well as a two-piano recital with Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy; a new work by Vivian Fung, co-commissioned by Newport Classical, performed by Sandbox Percussion and violinist Kristin Lee; performances by violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing, VOCES8, Apollo’s Fire, Trio Karénine, WindSync, Cerus Saxophone Quartet, Beijing Guitar Duo, Parker Quartet, and more; two evenings with Broadway star Jeremy Jordan, known for his lead role in Newsies and most recently The Great Gatsby; and Closing Night with the GRAMMY® Award-winning Harlem Quartet, joined by Newport Classical’s Resident Festival Artists. Other highlights of the 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival include the beloved Sunrise Concerts at 5:15am; a concert inspired by nature at Norman Bird Sanctuary; a free Fourth of July concert at King Park; and this year’s young professional Newport Classical Resident Festival Artists in eight performances. Now in its fifth year, Newport Classical’s Festival Artists Residency Program brings together five professional musicians at the early stages of their careers for an intense period of rehearsal and music-making during the Festival. This summer, Newport Classical welcomes Nathan Amaral (violin); Joshua Brown (violin); Joseph Skerik (viola), Leland Ko (cello), and Janice Carissa (piano).

For the full schedule, visit: www.newportclassical.org/music-festival 

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools and community organizations to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.” 

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

After a year-long community-driven process, and rooted in the organization’s mission “to celebrate the living art form of classical music in intimate and iconic locations,” Newport Classical released its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, presenting a clear roadmap to become a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant organization that enhances its programs and community engagement, promotes responsible financial growth and sustainability, and centers artistic excellence in every decision, as the organization aspires to open its doors even wider.

Newport Classical Music Festival Celebrates the Piano with Four Featured Concerts in July at The Breakers, Castle Hill Inn, and Emmanuel Church

L-R: Blake Pouliot, Henry Kramer, Trio Zimbalist. Photos available in high resolution here.

2026 Newport Classical Music Festival
Celebrates the Piano in Four Featured Concerts

July 3: Dmitry Shishkin

July 7: Michelle Cann

July 11: Janice Carissa

July 17: Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy

Tickets & Information: www.newportclassical.org/music-festival

Newport, RI – From July 2-19, 2026, the Newport Classical Music Festival will again turn this “City by the Sea” into a summer destination for music lovers, featuring 30 concerts across 11 unforgettable venues, from cliffside lawns to gilded mansions, including the stunning interiors of The Breakers, The Elms, Castle Hill Inn, Blithewold Mansion, Rosecliff Mansion, Redwood Library and Athenæum, and more. This year, Newport Classical presents four concerts celebrating the piano, showcasing some of today’s most sought-after performers – Tchaikovsky Competition winner Dmitry Shishkin (July 3 at The Breakers), GRAMMY® Award-winner Michelle Cann (July 7 at Castle Hill Inn, sold out but a waitlist is available), Gilmore Young Artist Janice Carissa (July 11 at Emmanuel Church), and “piano magicians” (The Arts Desk) duo Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy (July 17 at The Breakers).

On Friday, July 3 at 8pm at The Breakers, Dmitry Shishkin brings the artistry that has earned him international acclaim to Newport audiences in a program featuring Schubert, Prokofiev, and Tchaikovsky. Regarded as one of the most compelling pianists of his generation, Shishkin is a prizewinner of the International Tchaikovsky and Geneva International Music Competitions, and has been praised by Gramophone for his “imaginative pointing to his phrasing.” He has appeared on major international stages and with leading orchestras around the world, including the Tokyo Symphony, Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra, Warsaw Philharmonic, National Orchestra of Belgium, Staatskapelle Weimar, and the Russian National Orchestra, among others.

“A pianist of sterling artistry” (Gramophone), GRAMMY® Award-winning pianist Michelle Cann makes her Newport debut with a picturesque concert at Castle Hill Inn on Tuesday, July 7 at 7:30pm. A recipient of both the Sphinx Medal of Excellence and the Andrew Wolf Chamber Music Award, Cann has established herself as one of the most sought-after artists of her generation. Her program includes music by Brahms, Robert Schumann, and Clara Schumann – three composers whose lives were intertwined through friendship and love. Ticket holders can enjoy complimentary desserts and coffee during intermission, with drinks available for purchase, all set against the stunning backdrop of a Newport summer sunset over the water. This concert is sold out, but a waitlist is available.

A Gilmore Young Artist and Salon de Virtuosi recipient, Indonesian pianist Janice Carissa is celebrated for her ability to craft vivid musical narratives that transcend mere virtuosity (Chicago Classical Review). Having performed for the President of Indonesia at the Presidential Palace Indonesia and earning ovations in the United Nations, Carnegie Hall, Sydney Opera House and Louis Vuitton Foundation, she brings her impeccable talent to Newport for an afternoon recital at the historic Emmanuel Church on Saturday, July 11 at 3pm. Paired with the venue's stunning English gothic architecture, Carissa presents a program spanning Bach, Granados, Alkan, Ravel, Messiaen, and more.

Described as “piano magicians” by The Arts Desk, duo Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy bring their synergy to Newport for a magical night of interplay between two of today’s most compelling pianists, on Friday, July 17 at 8pm. Known for their inventive site-specific performances, from car parks in London to historic theaters in Aldeburgh, they now add The Breakers mansion to their impressive list of unique venues. Their program is anchored by Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring and Ravel’s Ma Mère l’Oye,  promising an evening of “magical” (BBC Music Magazine) and playful dialogue between two pianos and four hands.

For 57 years, Newport Classical has showcased classical music as a living art form, presenting artists and programs that are diverse and ever-evolving in intimate and iconic venues that make every performance one of a kind. The 2026 Festival will again offer audiences the opportunity to discover new composers, revisit beloved works, and experience timeless works offered from a fresh perspective.

Highlights of the 2026 Festival include Opening Night with chamber orchestra Delirium Musicum; a celebration of the Golden Age of Opera with Lawrence Brownlee and Erin Morley; solo piano performances by Michelle Cann and Dmitry Shishkin, as well as a two-piano recital with Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy; a new work by Vivian Fung, co-commissioned by Newport Classical, performed by Sandbox Percussion and violinist Kristin Lee; performances by violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing, VOCES8, Apollo’s Fire, Trio Karénine, WindSync, Cerus Saxophone Quartet, Beijing Guitar Duo, Parker Quartet, and more; two evenings with Broadway star Jeremy Jordan, known for his lead role in Newsies and most recently The Great Gatsby; and Closing Night with the GRAMMY® Award-winning Harlem Quartet, joined by Newport Classical’s Resident Festival Artists. Other highlights of the 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival include the beloved Sunrise Concerts at 5:15am; a concert inspired by nature at Norman Bird Sanctuary; a free Fourth of July concert at King Park; and this year’s young professional Newport ClassicalResidentFestival Artists in eight performances. Now in its fifth year, Newport Classical’s Festival ArtistsResidency Program brings together five professional musicians at the early stages of their careers for an intense period of rehearsal and music-making during the Festival. This summer, Newport Classical welcomes Nathan Amaral (violin); Joshua Brown (violin); Joseph Skerik (viola), Leland Ko (cello), and Janice Carissa (piano).

For the full schedule, visit: www.newportclassical.org/music-festival

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools and community organizations to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

After a year-long community-driven process, and rooted in the organization’s mission “to celebrate the living art form of classical music in intimate and iconic locations,” Newport Classical released its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, presenting a clear roadmap to become a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant organization that enhances its programs and community engagement, promotes responsible financial growth and sustainability, and centers artistic excellence in every decision, as the organization aspires to open its doors even wider.

Aug. 15: Newport Classical Presents Free Annual Children’s Concert Featuring Frisson in Peter and the Wolf

Photo credit: Dorothy Shi

Newport Classical Presents Free Annual Children’s Concert
Featuring Frisson in Peter and the Wolf

Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 4pm
Newport County YMCA | 792 Valley Rd, Middletown, RI
Free and Open to the Public

www.newportclassical.org | www.frissonensemble.com

Newport, RI – Newport Classical presents its annual Free Children’s Concert at the Newport County YMCA (792 Valley Rd.), on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 4pm. The wind members of Frisson, featuring some of New York City’s finest classical musicians, will present an interactive, family-friendly performance of Sergei Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf in a playful retelling.

The hour-long performance is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy this program in a casual, laid-back setting. Prior to the performance, children of all ages can explore musical instruments up close during an “instrument petting zoo.”

Frisson will also perform George Gershwin’s Summertime, The Pink Panther Theme by Henry Mancini, selections from Scott Joplin’s Treemonisha and Maple Leaf Rag, as well as excerpts from The Sorcerer’s Apprentice by Paul Dukas and music from Pirates of the Caribbean by Klaus Badelt and producer Hans Zimmer.

For over 56 years, Newport Classical has brought world-class musicians to some of the most iconic venues in Newport, Rhode Island — from gilded-age mansions to seaside outdoor venues, celebrating the living art of classical music. This concert is made possible through the generous support of Randy and Becky Johnson in honor of their granddaughter Schuyler Madison and is presented as part of the BankNewport Community Concerts Series.

About Frisson

Frisson features some of today’s brightest stars of classical music and, in just a few seasons, has become one of the most popular chamber ensembles in America. The group brings together emerging young artists and distinguished professionals, many of whom have appeared at renowned festivals including Marlboro, Verbier, Spoleto, and Mostly Mozart, as well as in performances at Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall. Several members have participated in Carnegie Hall’s Ensemble Connect program, with alumni now serving as principal players in leading ensembles such as the Cleveland Orchestra and the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra.

Since its founding, Frisson has performed more than 100 concerts across the United States and abroad. Recent and upcoming engagements include appearances at the Morgan Library and Museum (New York City), the Da Camera Society (Los Angeles), the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Bermuda Festival, Newport Classical, Syracuse Friends of Chamber Music, InConcert Sierra, Chamber Music Marin, El Camino College, Sarasota Opera House, Woodstock Town Hall, the Mann Center in Fort Myers, and the Palm Springs Concert Association.

Praised by the Borrego Sun as an ensemble filled with ”individual brilliance and collective versatility,” Frisson offers dynamic programs that span an array of ensemble combinations — from winds, piano trios, and piano quartets to octets and nonets. Their repertoire ranges from masterworks to lighter fare, with programs featuring Gershwin, Cole Porter, John Williams, and Astor Piazzolla, as well as their own celebrated version of Sergei Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf.

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools and community organizations to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

After a year-long community-driven process, and rooted in the organization’s mission “to celebrate the living art form of classical music in intimate and iconic locations,” Newport Classical released its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, presenting a clear roadmap to become a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant organization that enhances its programs and community engagement, promotes responsible financial growth and sustainability, and centers artistic excellence in every decision, as the organization aspires to open its doors even wider.

July 2-19: Newport Classical Music Festival Brings 30 Concerts to 11 Iconic Locations - From Cliffside Lawns to Gilded Mansions

Press photos available here.

Newport Classical Music Festival Presents 30 Concerts from July 2-19, 2026

Performances by Pianist Michelle Cann, Broadway Star Jeremy Jordan, Violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing, Apollo’s Fire, Delirium Musicum, the Parker Quartet, VOCES8, Beijing Guitar Duo, Trio Karénine, WindSync, the Harlem Quartet, and Many More 

Regional Premiere of Vivian Fung’s Goddess//Insect
Performed by Violinist Kristin Lee & Sandbox Percussion
Co-Commissioned by Newport Classical 

Opera Night at The Breakers: Golden Age with Lawrence Brownlee & Erin Morley 

Historic Venues include The Breakers, The Elms, Blithewold Mansion, Castle Hill Inn, Rosecliff Mansion, Redwood Library and Athenæum, and More

Tickets on Sale April 9: www.newportclassical.org/music-festival

For press ticket requests, contact Christina Jensen at christina@jensenartists.com. 

Newport, RI – From July 2-19, 2026, the Newport Classical Music Festival will again turn this “City by the Sea” into a summer destination for music lovers, featuring 30 concerts across 11 unforgettable venues, from cliffside lawns to gilded mansions, including the stunning interiors of The Breakers, The Elms, Castle Hill Inn, Blithewold Mansion, Rosecliff Mansion, Redwood Library and Athenæum, and more. For 57 years, Newport Classical has showcased classical music as a living art form, presenting artists and programs that are diverse and ever-evolving in intimate and iconic venues that make every performance one of a kind. The 2026 Festival will again offer audiences the opportunity to discover new composers, revisit beloved works, and experience timeless works offered from a fresh perspective. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on April 8 at 10am.

Highlights of the 2026 Festival include Opening Night with chamber orchestra Delirium Musicum; a celebration of the Golden Age of Opera with Lawrence Brownlee and Erin Morley; solo piano performances by Michelle Cann and Dmitry Shishkin, as well as a two-piano recital with Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy; a new work by Vivian Fung, co-commissioned by Newport Classical, performed by Sandbox Percussion and violinist Kristin Lee; performances by violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing, VOCES8, Apollo’s Fire, Trio Karénine, WindSync, Cerus Saxophone Quartet, Beijing Guitar Duo, Parker Quartet, and more; two evenings with Broadway star Jeremy Jordan, known for his lead role in Newsies and most recently The Great Gatsby; and Closing Night with the GRAMMY® Award-winning Harlem Quartet, joined by Newport Classical’s Resident Festival Artists.

Other highlights of the 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival include the beloved Sunrise Concerts at 5:15am; a concert inspired by nature at Norman Bird Sanctuary; a free Fourth of July concert at King Park; and this year’s young professional Newport Classical Resident Festival Artists in eight performances.

Executive Director Oliver Inteeworn says, “For 57 years, the Newport Classical Music Festival has transformed July in Newport into something truly magical: a vibrant gathering where world-class artistry, the intimate beauty of the city’s historic venues, and the unique enthusiasm of a dedicated community of music lovers come together in perfect harmony. This summer, we’re proud to present 30 concerts that illuminate the enduring power of classical music, forging powerful connections between performers and audiences. We look forward to sharing these unforgettable experiences with you at the 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival." 

Now in its fifth year, Newport Classical’s Festival Artists Residency Program brings together five professional musicians at the early stages of their careers for an intense period of rehearsal and music-making during the Festival. This diverse group of emerging talents live, work, and play together, becoming engaged members of the community during their extended time in Newport. Each of these exceptionally gifted musicians are selected for their experience working in fast-paced chamber music settings and comfort tackling a wide range of repertoire. This summer, Newport Classical welcomes Nathan Amaral (violin); Joshua Brown (violin); Joseph Skerik (viola), Leland Ko (cello), and Janice Carissa (piano).

Press photos available in high resolution here. Photographs by Lisette Rooney.

2026 Newport Classical Music Festival Concerts:

Newport Classical Music Festival’s Opening Night concert on Tuesday, July 2 at 8pm at The Breakers features Delirium Musicum, a fiery, self-conducted chamber orchestra. Described as “ferocious and rhythmically mesmerizing” by the San Francisco Classical Voice, the ensemble is known for challenging expectations and redefining classical music as a red-hot concert experience. In a program featuring masterworks from the Baroque era to the music of today, Delirium Musicum will deliver a fierce concert experience against the gilded glamour of The Breakers. The concert will include music by Saint-Saëns, Gabriella Smith, Satie, Max Richter, Philip Glass, Schubert, Jessie Montgomery, and Vivaldi.

On Friday, July 3 at 8pm at The Breakers, pianist Dmitry Shishkin will bring the artistry that has earned him international acclaim to Newport audiences in a program featuring Schubert, Prokofiev, and Tchaikovsky. Regarded as one of the most compelling pianists of his generation, Shishkin is a prizewinner of the International Tchaikovsky and Geneva International Music Competitions, and has been praised by Gramophone for his “imaginative pointing to his phrasing.” He has appeared on major international stages and with leading orchestras around the world, including the Tokyo Symphony, Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra, Warsaw Philharmonic, National Orchestra of Belgium, Staatskapelle Weimar, and the Russian National Orchestra, among others.

On Saturday, July 4 at 8pm, the Newport Classical Music Festival presents a free, outdoor Fourth of July Patriotic Pops concert preceding the fireworks at King Park featuring Fenway Brass & Percussion, one of Boston’s most esteemed professional brass ensembles, in a joyous program celebrating America's birthday. This family-friendly concert, with views of the Pell Bridge, is part of the 2026 BankNewport Community Concerts Series. Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the performance and fireworks. 

Internationally acclaimed for their “fearless, yet probingly beautiful” performances (The Strad), the GRAMMY® Award-winning Parker Quartet returns to Newport to perform at The Breakers on Sunday, July 5 at 8pm, in a vibrant program featuring Beethoven, Paul Wiancko, and Schubert. Renowned for their fresh interpretations of canonical works, the Quartet continues to chart a dynamic artistic path rooted in both tradition and innovation, having captivated audiences on the world’s premier stages for over two decades.

In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, the 2026 Resident Festival Artists invite audiences to immerse themselves in the lush, evocative sound world of American Impressionism on Monday, July 6 at 4pm at the Newport Art Museum. Highlighting three visionary American composers, the program explores the American answer to the Impressionist movement, emphasizing the subtle textures, nuance, and distinctive spirit of early 20th century American music through the works of Arthur Foote, Charles Tomlinson Griffes, and Florence Price. Ticket holders can arrive early to explore the Newport Art Museum for a truly enriching afternoon.

Spend a beautiful morning on the outdoor grounds of Blithewold Mansion on Tuesday, July 7 at 11am, with the Cerus Saxophone Quartet. Named for the mythical wild bull tamed by Persephone, Cerus brings the same spirit to the stage, blending works from the traditional classical cannon and new contemporary works with energy, precision, and playful imagination. From Glazunov and Bach to living composers like Karalyn Schubring and Joan Pérez-Villegas, the quartet’s program spans centuries and styles, showcasing the saxophone quartet as a dynamic voice in 21st-century chamber music.

“A pianist of sterling artistry” (Gramophone), GRAMMY® Award-winning pianist Michelle Cann makes her Newport debut with a picturesque concert at Castle Hill Inn on Tuesday, July 7 at 7:30pm. A recipient of both the Sphinx Medal of Excellence and the Andrew Wolf Chamber Music Award, Cann has established herself as one of the most sought-after artists of her generation. Her program includes music by Brahms, Robert Schumann, and Clara Schumann – three composers whose lives were intertwined through friendship and love. Ticket holders can enjoy complimentary desserts and coffee during intermission, with drinks available for purchase, all set against the stunning backdrop of a Newport summer sunset over the water.

The 2026 Resident Festival Artists present a concert titled The Sonata, celebrating the beloved form on Wednesday, July 8 at 11am at The Elms, featuring music by Mozart, Beethoven, Clarke, and Debussy. The program takes the audience on a journey through musical history, moving from the elegance of the Classical period, the expressive heights of the Romantic era, and into the modern and Impressionist sounds of the early 20th century. Set within the elegance and charm of one of Newport’s most charming mansions, this morning concert offers an intimate musical conversation through time.

Violinist Stella Chen, violist Matthew Lipman, and cellist Brannon Cho join forces for an evening of chamber music trios on Wednesday, July 8 at 8pm. These three powerhouse musicians have each garnered international acclaim and have performed on prestigious stages worldwide with some of the world’s top orchestras. They come together to present a program pairing beloved Classical trios by Mozart and Dohnányi with a contemporary work by Andreia Pinto-Correia inspired by the individual voices of the ensemble, set against the glamorous backdrop of The Breakers.

After a sold-out performance with the Galvin Cello Quartet in 2025, cellist James Baik returns to Newport for a morning recital at The Elms mansion on Thursday, July 9 at 11am. First Prize Winner of the 2023 Young Concert Artists Susan Wadsworth International Auditions and recipient of the Paul A. Fish Memorial Prize and the Bridgehampton Chamber Music Prize, Baik brings what The Strad calls “a musical fabric bejeweled with the precision and beauty of [his] sound” to a program featuring Mendelssohn, Shostakovich, Fauré, and more. This concert offers an enchanting journey through time, set against the elegance of The Elms. 

Violinist Kristin Lee, praised in The Strad for her “elegance” and “vivacity and electric energy,” and the “utterly amazing” (Guardian) GRAMMY®-nominated ensemble Sandbox Percussion, give the regional premiere of Goddess//Insect – a new work composed for them by JUNO Award-winning composer Vivian Fung – on Thursday, July 9 at 8pm. The piece is co-commissioned by a national consortium of presenters, including Newport Classical. “Goddess//Insect is derived from the term 'God-Bug Syndrome' where a 'god complex' (inflated self-importance) acts as a defense against deep-seated feelings of worthlessness,” says Fung. “I believe our world right now is facing these conflicting emotions.” Exploring the vibrant dialogue between violin and percussion, Lee and Sandbox Percussion bring this dynamic new work to The Breakers, along with music by two other women composers, Gabriella Smith and Joan Tower.

Attendees will start their day with a breathtaking sunrise over Newport’s iconic Cliff Walk and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean as the Resident Festival Artists embark on a serene musical journey, on Friday, July 10 at 5:15am. Set on the terrace of Rosecliff mansion, with its sweeping views and peaceful ambiance, Sunrise Meditations offers a rare opportunity to experience music in harmony with the day’s first light. The program features a thoughtfully curated selection, including Mozart’s String Quartet No. 21, Schubert’s String Quartet No. 12, Viéxtemps’ Capriccio for solo viola, and more. Complimentary coffee and pastries will be served before and after the concert. 

The GRAMMY® Award-winning Apollo’s Fire brings its vivacious sound to The Breakers on Friday, July 10 at 8pm, for an evening of Baroque brilliance. Led by visionary harpsichordist and conductor Jeannette Sorrell, the ensemble is America’s most active touring Baroque orchestra, and is celebrated for performances that are not only deeply expressive, but truly capture the heart of the period. “Sorrell and her dazzling period band… are incandescent” (The Sunday Times, London), and their playing animates Baroque music with “European stylishness with American entrepreneurialism,” inviting listeners to experience this repertoire not as history, but as something thrillingly alive. 

The Resident Festival Artists present a morning of delightful chamber music in perfect harmony with nature, immersed in the serene beauty of the Norman Bird Sanctuary on Saturday, July 11 at 9am. Surrounded by the sanctuary’s lush greenery, this year’s Strings in Nature concert features Haydn’s String Quartet in F Major, Jean Francaix’s Trio a Cordes, John Blackwood's McEwan’s String Quartet No. 8, and Britten’s Simple Symphony. As the music unfolds, the birds may even lend their own melodies, adding a whimsical, enchanting layer to this peaceful outdoor performance.

A Gilmore Young Artist and Salon de Virtuosi recipient, Indonesian pianist Janice Carissa is celebrated for her ability to craft vivid musical narratives that transcend mere virtuosity (Chicago Classical Review). Having performed for the President of Indonesia at the Presidential Palace Indonesia and earning ovations in the United Nations, Carnegie Hall, Sydney Opera House and Louis Vuitton Foundation, she brings her impeccable talent to Newport for an afternoon recital at the historic Emmanuel Church on Saturday, July 11 at 3pm. Paired with the venue's stunning English gothic architecture, Carissa presents a program spanning Bach, Granados, Alkan, Ravel, Messiaen, and more.

The GRAMMY-nominated British vocal ensemble VOCES8, the world’s top-streaming classical vocal group, presents an impeccably crafted vocal concert at The Breakers mansion on Saturday, July 11 at 8pm. Renowned for their flawless blend, rich tonal color, and adventurous programming, VOCES8 moves effortlessly between choral masterpieces, contemporary works, and inventive arrangements of beloved classics. This concert features works by Tomás Luis de Victoria, Eric Whitacre, Ola Gjeilo, Taylor Scott Davis, and inspired interpretations of favorites from Simon & Garfunkel, John Barry, and more, culminating in a celebration of the power and joy of the human voice.

Praised by Classical Guitar Magazine for “having the star potential to serve as inspiration for new generations of guitarists to come,” the Beijing Guitar Duo make their Newport debut at the historic Redwood Library and Athenæum on Sunday, July 12 at 3pm. Guitarists Meng Su and Yameng Wang have performed around the world in famous halls such as the Concertgebouw, Palau de Musica, Tchaikovsky Hall, and Carnegie Hall, and their recordings, including a Latin-GRAMMY-nominated debut, have earned acclaim for artistry that exceeds their years. Blending their impeccable technique with the warmth and charm of the Redwood Library and Athenæum, this delightful afternoon concert invites listeners into an intimate musical conversation featuring works by Franck, Debussy, Piazzolla, and more.

After a sold-out Newport Classical debut in 2024, Trio Karénine returns to Newport for their first performance at The Breakers mansion on Sunday, July 12 at 8pm. Praised by Newport Classical patrons as “one of the top performances I have seen” and for defining “what chamber music is all about,” the Paris-based trio is celebrated for its extraordinary cohesion and precision. Founded in 2009, Trio Karénine has appeared in many of the world’s most prestigious concert halls, including Wigmore Hall, the Concertgebouw, the Philharmonie de Paris, and the Frick Collection in New York. Acclaimed for their imaginative interpretations of the classical canon, the trio presents a program featuring works by Rimski-Korsakov, Saint-Saëns, and Tchaikovsky. 

For the first time, Newport Classical takes the stage at the enchanting Glen Manor House. The Resident Festival Artists step into this elegant, storybook setting to perform Whispers of Virtuosity, featuring music by Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven, on Monday, July 13 at 11am. From Haydn’s spirited Op. 77, No. 1, to Mozart’s String Quartet No. 21, to Beethoven’s Op. 18, No. 6, this morning concert reveals the heart of the Classical era.

Experience familiar works in a whole new light as returning artists Hanzhi Wang and Anthony Trionfo take audiences through a vibrant program reimagined for accordion and flute, in two parts at 1pm and 4pm on Tuesday, July 14 at Newport Art Museum. These intimate concerts invite audiences to hear well-loved repertoire including music by Joseph Bologne, J.S. Bach, Debussy, Barber, Stravinsky, Piazzolla, and more, in a fresh, inventive way, paired with contemporary works – including music composed by Hanzhi Wang herself – which perfectly complements these reimagined classics. Ticket holders can arrive early to explore the museum.

Broadway star Jeremy Jordan takes the stage for two unforgettable solo evenings at The Breakers mansion on Tuesday, July 14 and Wednesday, July 15 at 8pm. With a career spanning over three decades, Jordan is a two-time Tony Award®-nominee for Newsies and Floyd Collins and a Theatre World Award winner for his breakout role in Bonnie & Clyde. He has dazzled audiences on Broadway, film, and television, from Waitress and The Great Gatsby to The Last Five Years and NBC’s Smash. Known for his powerhouse voice, magnetic stage presence, and decades of sold-out cabaret performances, Jeremy delivers a night of show-stopping songs, captivating storytelling, and pure Broadway magic for fans of all ages, with pianist Ben Rauhala.

Set within the French-inspired grandeur of The Elms mansion, modeled after an 18th‑century château, the Resident Festival Artists transport you to the Romantic era with a morning of music full of charm, emotion, and French flair in a concert titled French Romanticism on Wednesday, July 15 at 11am. From Farrenc’s graceful trio to Chaminade’s signature melodies and Saint-Saëns’ sweeping Piano Trio, this program is a journey through France’s most beloved chamber works.

After an energetic and imaginative Children’s Concert in 2024, WindSync returns to Newport for a performance at The Elms on Thursday, July 16 at 11am. Praised for playing “many idioms authoritatively, elegantly, with adroit technique, and with great fun” (All About the Arts), WindSync brings a playful approach to the wind quintet repertoire, weaving together classical favorites, contemporary works, and folk-inspired pieces into a vivid musical journey. Set in the elegant surroundings of the historic Elms mansion, this morning concert features a program ranging from the vibrant textures of Boulanger and Glass, the folky Botanist Suite, Mozart’s spirited Serenade in C minor, and more, inviting listeners to step into the colorful world of the wind quintet. 

Acclaimed violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing returns to The Breakers on Thursday, July 16 at 8pm, joining harpsichordist Sebastian Bottone and Newport Classical’s Resident Festival Artists in Colors of Bach, a program that explores the breadth of one of classical music’s most influential voices. Bringing together solo, chamber, and ensemble works from across Bach’s lifetime, this performance offers a rare opportunity to experience his music as a living, breathing world of sound, rich with contrast, beauty, and humanity.

Framed by a quintessential Newport sunrise over the Atlantic and the iconic Cliff Walk, the Resident Festival Artists invite audiences to a thoughtfully curated early morning concert on Friday, July 17 at 5:15am, on the terrace of the Rosecliff mansion. The program, titled Awakening Light, features reflective music by Biber, Beethoven, Pärt, Holst, and Golijov. Complimentary coffee and pastries will be served before and after the concert.

Described as “piano magicians” by The Arts Desk, duo Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy bring their synergy to Newport for a magical night of interplay between two of today’s most compelling pianists, on Friday, July 17 at 8pm. Known for their inventive site-specific performances, from car parks in London to historic theaters in Aldeburgh, they now add The Breakers mansion to their impressive list of unique venues. Their program is anchored by Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring and Ravel’s Ma Mère l’Oye,  promising an evening of “magical” (BBC Music Magazine) and playful dialogue between two pianos and four hands.

On Saturday, July 18 at 8pm, one of the most beloved evenings of the Festival returns. This year, Opera Night: Golden Age features two of the world’s most celebrated voices. Tenor Lawrence Brownlee and soprano Erin Morley bring their unparalleled virtuosity to The Breakers for an unforgettable evening of bel canto masterpieces. From Rossini and Bellini to Verdi and Bizet, this dazzling program features some of opera’s most beloved arias, showcasing the exceptional technique that has made these two artists international stars. Experience the thrill of hearing music written for the world’s greatest voices performed by two artists at the absolute pinnacle of their careers.

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival concludes on Sunday, July 19 at 8pm with the Festival Finale: Harlem Quartet and Friends at The Breakers, featuring GRAMMY® Award-winning Harlem Quartet alongside Newport Classical’s Resident Festival Artists in an exhilarating evening of string octets. Known for bringing “a new attitude to classical music” (Cincinnati Enquirer), the Harlem Quartet brings its signature dynamic energy to Newport for a performance steeped in innovation and collaboration. With a program dynamically anchored by Shostakovich and Mendelssohn, this finale promises to be a bold and exciting send-off to the 2026 Festival.

For the full schedule, visit: www.newportclassical.org/music-festival 

About Newport Classical 

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools and community organizations to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

After a year-long community-driven process, and rooted in the organization’s mission “to celebrate the living art form of classical music in intimate and iconic locations,” Newport Classical released its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, presenting a clear roadmap to become a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant organization that enhances its programs and community engagement, promotes responsible financial growth and sustainability, and centers artistic excellence in every decision, as the organization aspires to open its doors even wider.

Newport Classical Concludes 2025-2026 Chamber Series with Concerts in May and June

L-R: Zijian Wei, Amir Hoshang Farsi, Mika Sasaki. Photos available in high resolution here.

Newport Classical Concludes 2025-2026 Chamber Series

Friday, May 8, 2026 at 7:30pm: James Zijian Wei performs Ravel and Liszt

Friday, June 5, 2026 at 7:30pm: Amir Hoshang Farsi and Mika Sasaki

Newport Classical Recital Hall | 42 Dearborn Street | Newport, RI
Information & Tickets: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – Newport Classical concludes its fifth full-season Chamber Series, which features twelve concerts held on select Fridays between September 2025 and June 2026 at the organization’s home venue, the Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.). On Friday, May 8, 2026 at 7:30pm, pianist James Zijian Wei makes his Newport debut, and on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 7:30pm, flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Mika Sasaki close this season’s Chamber Series with a colorful and virtuosic program.

Pianist James Zijian Wei comes to Newport on May 8 following a sweeping first-prize win at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition. A standout among China’s rising generation of pianists, Wei has earned international acclaim on major stages and has been recognized with top prizes at the Lang Lang Cup, the China Grand Canal Festival, and the Beijing International Chopin Competition. In Newport, Wei presents a program of Barber, Ravel, Liszt, and more showcasing the magnetic energy of a major artist on the rise.

Newport Classical Executive Director Oliver Inteeworn writes of the program:

“James Zijian Wei’s concert program has a wonderful dramatic arc. He opens with Scriabin’s Piano Sonata No. 5 in F-sharp Major, Op. 53, a work of volcanic intensity. Scriabin wrote this piece after relocating from Paris to Lausanne, a place he found more peaceful, and where he felt at ease. You can almost hear his sense of liberation and joy in the work, which took him only six days to write. From there, Wei turns to Samuel Barber’s Excursions, Op. 20, four short, distinctly American character pieces that draw on folk idioms including blues, boogie-woogie, fiddle, and even a cowboy ballad. Next, Wei performs Lü Wencheng’s Autumn Moon on a Calm Lake, rooted in the tradition of Cantonese music and evoking the beauty of moonlight on water.The second half of the concert opens with Ravel’s famous work, La Valse, a dizzyingly virtuosic showcase that is very demanding for the soloist. The final piece on Wei’s program is Liszt’s Fantasie über Themen aus Mozarts Figaro und Don Giovanni, S. 697, which brilliantly weaves together melodies from Mozart’s two great operas.”

Flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Mika Sasaki join forces on June 5 to close this season’s Chamber Series with brilliance and flair. Hailed as “virtuosic and birdlike” (I Care If You Listen), Farsi brings his lyrical tone and adventurous spirit to a rich and colorful program featuring works by Gabriel Fauré, Lili Boulanger, Ian Clarke, Reena Esmail, and Yuko Uébayashi. Sasaki, praised as a “superb interpreter” (Fanfare) and for her “virtuosity… and sparkling sound” (Times Argus) has performed at leading venues across North America, Europe, and Asia, and is celebrated for her remarkably expressive range. Together, these two rising stars present a program of sparkling Impressionism. This concert is made possible through the generous support of Ron and Maureen Early.

Inteeworn writes of Farsi and Sasaki’s program:

“The duo’s program opens with two short works by French composer Lili Boulanger, who in spite of only living to the age of 24 left us with a catalog of treasured works. Farsi and Sasaki will perform her sunlit D’un matin de printemps (Of a Spring Morning) and her subdued Nocturne. Next, they perform Fauré’s Sonata in A Major, Op. 13, of which fellow composer Saint-Saëns wrote, ‘This sonata has everything that will seduce the gourmet: novel forms, exquisite modulations, uncommon tone colours, the use of the most unexpected rhythms…hovering above all this is a magic which envelops the work…’ The second half of the concert features three vivid new works. Ian Clarke describes his piece Orange Dawn as ‘inspired by the vision of a dawn scene in the Great Rift Valley of East Africa.’ Reena Esmail’s Zinfandel blends Western classical and Hindustani musical traditions. She writes that she imagined ‘a glimmer of light reflecting and refracting off the surface of the dark, rich wine’ while composing it. Yuko Uébayashi’s Sonata for Flute and Piano brings the concert full circle, reflecting both French Impressionist music and the influence of Japanese film music, related to the composer’s experiences in her native Kyoto and in Paris, where she has made her home for many years.”

Newport Classical's Chamber Series takes place at Newport Classical Recital Hall in downtown Newport, known for its striking architecture and excellent acoustics. Audiences are invited to enjoy performances by world-class classical musicians in a relaxed setting, with complimentary wine generously provided by Gold's Wine and Spirits served when the doors open at 7:00pm and again during intermission. Both performers and audience members alike have described these concerts as some of their favorites. “Beautiful concert, high artistry and exciting programming . . . a deeply moving and soulful experience, with a rousing and brilliant virtuosity that kept you on the edge of your seat,” raved one attendee.

As part of Newport Classical's desire to create connections between classical music, the artists who perform it, and the Newport community, all musicians performing on the Chamber Series will also visit a local school or organization to present their talents and meaningfully engage with students and community members of all ages through Newport Classical's Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative.

Up next, the 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026. Highlights of the 2026 Festival include Opening Night with chamber orchestra Delirium Musicum; a celebration of the Golden Age of Opera with Lawrence Brownlee and Erin Morley; solo piano performances by Michelle Cann and Dmitry Shishkin, as well as a two-piano recital with Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy; a new work by Vivian Fung, co-commissioned by Newport Classical, performed by Sandbox Percussion and violinist Kristin Lee; performances by violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing, VOCES8, Apollo’s Fire, Trio Karénine, WindSync, Cerus Saxophone Quartet, Beijing Guitar Duo, Parker Quartet, and more; two evenings with Broadway star Jeremy Jordan, known for his lead role in Newsies and most recently The Great Gatsby; and Closing Night with the GRAMMY® Award-winning Harlem Quartet, joined by Newport Classical’s Resident Festival Artists. Additional highlights include the beloved Sunrise Concerts at 5:15am; a concert inspired by nature at Norman Bird Sanctuary; a free Fourth of July concert at King Park; and this year’s young professional Newport ClassicalResidentFestival Artists in eight performances. For details, visit newportclassical.org/concerts.

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

Announcing the 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival - 30 Concerts from July 2-19 at 11 Unforgettable Venues

Press photos available here.

Announcing the 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival
30 Concerts from July 2-19, 2026

Performances by Pianist Michelle Cann, Broadway Star Jeremy Jordan, Violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing, Apollo’s Fire, Delirium Musicum, the Parker Quartet, VOCES8, Beijing Guitar Duo, Trio Karénine, WindSync, the Harlem Quartet, and Many More 

Regional Premiere of Vivian Fung’s Goddess//Insect
Performed by Violinist Kristin Lee & Sandbox Percussion
Co-Commissioned by Newport Classical 

Opera Night at The Breakers: Golden Age with Lawrence Brownlee & Erin Morley 

Historic Venues include The Breakers, The Elms, Blithewold Mansion, Castle Hill Inn, Rosecliff Mansion, Redwood Library and Athenæum, and More

Tickets on Sale April 9: www.newportclassical.org/music-festival

Newport, RI – From July 2-19, 2026, the Newport Classical Music Festival will again turn this “City by the Sea” into a summer destination for music lovers, featuring 30 concerts across 11 unforgettable venues, from cliffside lawns to gilded mansions, including the stunning interiors of The Breakers, The Elms, Castle Hill Inn, Blithewold Mansion, Rosecliff Mansion, Redwood Library and Athenæum, and more. For 57 years, Newport Classical has showcased classical music as a living art form, presenting artists and programs that are diverse and ever-evolving in intimate and iconic venues that make every performance one of a kind. The 2026 Festival will again offer audiences the opportunity to discover new composers, revisit beloved works, and experience timeless works offered from a fresh perspective. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on April 8 at 10am.

Highlights of the 2026 Festival include Opening Night with chamber orchestra Delirium Musicum; a celebration of the Golden Age of Opera with Lawrence Brownlee and Erin Morley; solo piano performances by Michelle Cann and Dmitry Shishkin, as well as a two-piano recital with Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy; a new work by Vivian Fung, co-commissioned by Newport Classical, performed by Sandbox Percussion and violinist Kristin Lee; performances by violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing, VOCES8, Apollo’s Fire, Trio Karénine, WindSync, Cerus Saxophone Quartet, Beijing Guitar Duo, Parker Quartet, and more; two evenings with Broadway star Jeremy Jordan, known for his lead role in Newsies and most recently The Great Gatsby; and Closing Night with the GRAMMY® Award-winning Harlem Quartet, joined by Newport Classical’s Resident Festival Artists.

Other highlights of the 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival include the beloved Sunrise Concerts at 5:15am; a concert inspired by nature at Norman Bird Sanctuary; a free Fourth of July concert at King Park; and this year’s young professional Newport Classical Resident Festival Artists in eight performances.

Executive Director Oliver Inteeworn says, “For 57 years, the Newport Classical Music Festival has transformed July in Newport into something truly magical: a vibrant gathering where world-class artistry, the intimate beauty of the city’s historic venues, and the unique enthusiasm of a dedicated community of music lovers come together in perfect harmony. This summer, we’re proud to present 30 concerts that illuminate the enduring power of classical music, forging powerful connections between performers and audiences. We look forward to sharing these unforgettable experiences with you at the 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival." 

Now in its fifth year, Newport Classical’s Festival Artists Residency Program brings together five professional musicians at the early stages of their careers for an intense period of rehearsal and music-making during the Festival. This diverse group of emerging talents live, work, and play together, becoming engaged members of the community during their extended time in Newport. Each of these exceptionally gifted musicians are selected for their experience working in fast-paced chamber music settings and comfort tackling a wide range of repertoire. This summer, Newport Classical welcomes Nathan Amaral (violin); Joshua Brown (violin); Joseph Skerik (viola), Leland Ko (cello), and Janice Carissa (piano).

Press photos available in high resolution here. Photographs by Lisette Rooney.

2026 Newport Classical Music Festival Concerts:

Newport Classical Music Festival’s Opening Night concert on Tuesday, July 2 at 8pm at The Breakers features Delirium Musicum, a fiery, self-conducted chamber orchestra. Described as “ferocious and rhythmically mesmerizing” by the San Francisco Classical Voice, the ensemble is known for challenging expectations and redefining classical music as a red-hot concert experience. In a program featuring masterworks from the Baroque era to the music of today, Delirium Musicum will deliver a fierce concert experience against the gilded glamour of The Breakers. The concert will include music by Saint-Saëns, Gabriella Smith, Satie, Max Richter, Philip Glass, Schubert, Jessie Montgomery, and Vivaldi.

On Friday, July 3 at 8pm at The Breakers, pianist Dmitry Shishkin will bring the artistry that has earned him international acclaim to Newport audiences in a program featuring Schubert, Prokofiev, and Tchaikovsky. Regarded as one of the most compelling pianists of his generation, Shishkin is a prizewinner of the International Tchaikovsky and Geneva International Music Competitions, and has been praised by Gramophone for his “imaginative pointing to his phrasing.” He has appeared on major international stages and with leading orchestras around the world, including the Tokyo Symphony, Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra, Warsaw Philharmonic, National Orchestra of Belgium, Staatskapelle Weimar, and the Russian National Orchestra, among others.

On Saturday, July 4 at 8pm, the Newport Classical Music Festival presents a free, outdoor Fourth of July Patriotic Pops concert preceding the fireworks at King Park featuring Fenway Brass & Percussion, one of Boston’s most esteemed professional brass ensembles, in a joyous program celebrating America's birthday. This family-friendly concert, with views of the Pell Bridge, is part of the 2026 BankNewport Community Concerts Series. Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the performance and fireworks. 

Internationally acclaimed for their “fearless, yet probingly beautiful” performances (The Strad), the GRAMMY® Award-winning Parker Quartet returns to Newport to perform at The Breakers on Sunday, July 5 at 8pm, in a vibrant program featuring Beethoven, Paul Wiancko, and Schubert. Renowned for their fresh interpretations of canonical works, the Quartet continues to chart a dynamic artistic path rooted in both tradition and innovation, having captivated audiences on the world’s premier stages for over two decades.

In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, the 2026 Resident Festival Artists invite audiences to immerse themselves in the lush, evocative sound world of American Impressionism on Monday, July 6 at 4pm at the Newport Art Museum. Highlighting three visionary American composers, the program explores the American answer to the Impressionist movement, emphasizing the subtle textures, nuance, and distinctive spirit of early 20th century American music through the works of Arthur Foote, Charles Tomlinson Griffes, and Florence Price. Ticket holders can arrive early to explore the Newport Art Museum for a truly enriching afternoon.

Spend a beautiful morning on the outdoor grounds of Blithewold Mansion on Tuesday, July 7 at 11am, with the Cerus Saxophone Quartet. Named for the mythical wild bull tamed by Persephone, Cerus brings the same spirit to the stage, blending works from the traditional classical cannon and new contemporary works with energy, precision, and playful imagination. From Glazunov and Bach to living composers like Karalyn Schubring and Joan Pérez-Villegas, the quartet’s program spans centuries and styles, showcasing the saxophone quartet as a dynamic voice in 21st-century chamber music.

“A pianist of sterling artistry” (Gramophone), GRAMMY® Award-winning pianist Michelle Cann makes her Newport debut with a picturesque concert at Castle Hill Inn on Tuesday, July 7 at 7:30pm. A recipient of both the Sphinx Medal of Excellence and the Andrew Wolf Chamber Music Award, Cann has established herself as one of the most sought-after artists of her generation. Her program includes music by Brahms, Robert Schumann, and Clara Schumann – three composers whose lives were intertwined through friendship and love. Ticket holders can enjoy complimentary desserts and coffee during intermission, with drinks available for purchase, all set against the stunning backdrop of a Newport summer sunset over the water.

The 2026 Resident Festival Artists present a concert titled The Sonata, celebrating the beloved form on Wednesday, July 8 at 11am at The Elms, featuring music by Mozart, Beethoven, Clarke, and Debussy. The program takes the audience on a journey through musical history, moving from the elegance of the Classical period, the expressive heights of the Romantic era, and into the modern and Impressionist sounds of the early 20th century. Set within the elegance and charm of one of Newport’s most charming mansions, this morning concert offers an intimate musical conversation through time.

Violinist Stella Chen, violist Matthew Lipman, and cellist Brannon Cho join forces for an evening of chamber music trios on Wednesday, July 8 at 8pm. These three powerhouse musicians have each garnered international acclaim and have performed on prestigious stages worldwide with some of the world’s top orchestras. They come together to present a program pairing beloved Classical trios by Mozart and Dohnányi with a contemporary work by Andreia Pinto-Correia inspired by the individual voices of the ensemble, set against the glamorous backdrop of The Breakers.

After a sold-out performance with the Galvin Cello Quartet in 2025, cellist James Baik returns to Newport for a morning recital at The Elms mansion on Thursday, July 9 at 11am. First Prize Winner of the 2023 Young Concert Artists Susan Wadsworth International Auditions and recipient of the Paul A. Fish Memorial Prize and the Bridgehampton Chamber Music Prize, Baik brings what The Strad calls “a musical fabric bejeweled with the precision and beauty of [his] sound” to a program featuring Mendelssohn, Shostakovich, Fauré, and more. This concert offers an enchanting journey through time, set against the elegance of The Elms. 

Violinist Kristin Lee, praised in The Strad for her “elegance” and “vivacity and electric energy,” and the “utterly amazing” (Guardian) GRAMMY®-nominated ensemble Sandbox Percussion, give the regional premiere of Goddess//Insect – a new work composed for them by JUNO Award-winning composer Vivian Fung – on Thursday, July 9 at 8pm. The piece is co-commissioned by a national consortium of presenters, including Newport Classical. “Goddess//Insect is derived from the term 'God-Bug Syndrome' where a 'god complex' (inflated self-importance) acts as a defense against deep-seated feelings of worthlessness,” says Fung. “I believe our world right now is facing these conflicting emotions.” Exploring the vibrant dialogue between violin and percussion, Lee and Sandbox Percussion bring this dynamic new work to The Breakers, along with music by two other women composers, Gabriella Smith and Joan Tower.

Attendees will start their day with a breathtaking sunrise over Newport’s iconic Cliff Walk and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean as the Resident Festival Artists embark on a serene musical journey, on Friday, July 10 at 5:15am. Set on the terrace of Rosecliff mansion, with its sweeping views and peaceful ambiance, Sunrise Meditations offers a rare opportunity to experience music in harmony with the day’s first light. The program features a thoughtfully curated selection, including Mozart’s String Quartet No. 21, Schubert’s String Quartet No. 12, Viéxtemps’ Capriccio for solo viola, and more. Complimentary coffee and pastries will be served before and after the concert. 

The GRAMMY® Award-winning Apollo’s Fire brings its vivacious sound to The Breakers on Friday, July 10 at 8pm, for an evening of Baroque brilliance. Led by visionary harpsichordist and conductor Jeannette Sorrell, the ensemble is America’s most active touring Baroque orchestra, and is celebrated for performances that are not only deeply expressive, but truly capture the heart of the period. “Sorrell and her dazzling period band… are incandescent” (The Sunday Times, London), and their playing animates Baroque music with “European stylishness with American entrepreneurialism,” inviting listeners to experience this repertoire not as history, but as something thrillingly alive. 

The Resident Festival Artists present a morning of delightful chamber music in perfect harmony with nature, immersed in the serene beauty of the Norman Bird Sanctuary on Saturday, July 11 at 9am. Surrounded by the sanctuary’s lush greenery, this year’s Strings in Nature concert features Haydn’s String Quartet in F Major, Jean Francaix’s Trio a Cordes, John Blackwood's McEwan’s String Quartet No. 8, and Britten’s Simple Symphony. As the music unfolds, the birds may even lend their own melodies, adding a whimsical, enchanting layer to this peaceful outdoor performance.

A Gilmore Young Artist and Salon de Virtuosi recipient, Indonesian pianist Janice Carissa is celebrated for her ability to craft vivid musical narratives that transcend mere virtuosity (Chicago Classical Review). Having performed for the President of Indonesia at the Presidential Palace Indonesia and earning ovations in the United Nations, Carnegie Hall, Sydney Opera House and Louis Vuitton Foundation, she brings her impeccable talent to Newport for an afternoon recital at the historic Emmanuel Church on Saturday, July 11 at 3pm. Paired with the venue's stunning English gothic architecture, Carissa presents a program spanning Bach, Granados, Alkan, Ravel, Messiaen, and more.

The GRAMMY-nominated British vocal ensemble VOCES8, the world’s top-streaming classical vocal group, presents an impeccably crafted vocal concert at The Breakers mansion on Saturday, July 11 at 8pm. Renowned for their flawless blend, rich tonal color, and adventurous programming, VOCES8 moves effortlessly between choral masterpieces, contemporary works, and inventive arrangements of beloved classics. This concert features works by Tomás Luis de Victoria, Eric Whitacre, Ola Gjeilo, Taylor Scott Davis, and inspired interpretations of favorites from Simon & Garfunkel, John Barry, and more, culminating in a celebration of the power and joy of the human voice.

Praised by Classical Guitar Magazine for “having the star potential to serve as inspiration for new generations of guitarists to come,” the Beijing Guitar Duo make their Newport debut at the historic Redwood Library and Athenæum on Sunday, July 12 at 3pm. Guitarists Meng Su and Yameng Wang have performed around the world in famous halls such as the Concertgebouw, Palau de Musica, Tchaikovsky Hall, and Carnegie Hall, and their recordings, including a Latin-GRAMMY-nominated debut, have earned acclaim for artistry that exceeds their years. Blending their impeccable technique with the warmth and charm of the Redwood Library and Athenæum, this delightful afternoon concert invites listeners into an intimate musical conversation featuring works by Franck, Debussy, Piazzolla, and more.

After a sold-out Newport Classical debut in 2024, Trio Karénine returns to Newport for their first performance at The Breakers mansion on Sunday, July 12 at 8pm. Praised by Newport Classical patrons as “one of the top performances I have seen” and for defining “what chamber music is all about,” the Paris-based trio is celebrated for its extraordinary cohesion and precision. Founded in 2009, Trio Karénine has appeared in many of the world’s most prestigious concert halls, including Wigmore Hall, the Concertgebouw, the Philharmonie de Paris, and the Frick Collection in New York. Acclaimed for their imaginative interpretations of the classical canon, the trio presents a program featuring works by Rimski-Korsakov, Saint-Saëns, and Tchaikovsky. 

For the first time, Newport Classical takes the stage at the enchanting Glen Manor House. The Resident Festival Artists step into this elegant, storybook setting to perform Whispers of Virtuosity, featuring music by Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven, on Monday, July 13 at 11am. From Haydn’s spirited Op. 77, No. 1, to Mozart’s String Quartet No. 21, to Beethoven’s Op. 18, No. 6, this morning concert reveals the heart of the Classical era.

Experience familiar works in a whole new light as returning artists Hanzhi Wang and Anthony Trionfo take audiences through a vibrant program reimagined for accordion and flute, in two parts at 1pm and 4pm on Tuesday, July 14 at Newport Art Museum. These intimate concerts invite audiences to hear well-loved repertoire including music by Joseph Bologne, J.S. Bach, Debussy, Barber, Stravinsky, Piazzolla, and more, in a fresh, inventive way, paired with contemporary works – including music composed by Hanzhi Wang herself – which perfectly complements these reimagined classics. Ticket holders can arrive early to explore the museum.

Broadway star Jeremy Jordan takes the stage for two unforgettable solo evenings at The Breakers mansion on Tuesday, July 14 and Wednesday, July 15 at 8pm. With a career spanning over three decades, Jordan is a two-time Tony Award®-nominee for Newsies and Floyd Collins and a Theatre World Award winner for his breakout role in Bonnie & Clyde. He has dazzled audiences on Broadway, film, and television, from Waitress and The Great Gatsby to The Last Five Years and NBC’s Smash. Known for his powerhouse voice, magnetic stage presence, and decades of sold-out cabaret performances, Jeremy delivers a night of show-stopping songs, captivating storytelling, and pure Broadway magic for fans of all ages, with pianist Ben Rauhala.

Set within the French-inspired grandeur of The Elms mansion, modeled after an 18th‑century château, the Resident Festival Artists transport you to the Romantic era with a morning of music full of charm, emotion, and French flair in a concert titled French Romanticism on Wednesday, July 15 at 11am. From Farrenc’s graceful trio to Chaminade’s signature melodies and Saint-Saëns’ sweeping Piano Trio, this program is a journey through France’s most beloved chamber works.

After an energetic and imaginative Children’s Concert in 2024, WindSync returns to Newport for a performance at The Elms on Thursday, July 16 at 11am. Praised for playing “many idioms authoritatively, elegantly, with adroit technique, and with great fun” (All About the Arts), WindSync brings a playful approach to the wind quintet repertoire, weaving together classical favorites, contemporary works, and folk-inspired pieces into a vivid musical journey. Set in the elegant surroundings of the historic Elms mansion, this morning concert features a program ranging from the vibrant textures of Boulanger and Glass, the folky Botanist Suite, Mozart’s spirited Serenade in C minor, and more, inviting listeners to step into the colorful world of the wind quintet. 

Acclaimed violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing returns to The Breakers on Thursday, July 16 at 8pm, joining harpsichordist Sebastian Bottone and Newport Classical’s Resident Festival Artists in Colors of Bach, a program that explores the breadth of one of classical music’s most influential voices. Bringing together solo, chamber, and ensemble works from across Bach’s lifetime, this performance offers a rare opportunity to experience his music as a living, breathing world of sound, rich with contrast, beauty, and humanity.

Framed by a quintessential Newport sunrise over the Atlantic and the iconic Cliff Walk, the Resident Festival Artists invite audiences to a thoughtfully curated early morning concert on Friday, July 17 at 5:15am, on the terrace of the Rosecliff mansion. The program, titled Awakening Light, features reflective music by Biber, Beethoven, Pärt, Holst, and Golijov. Complimentary coffee and pastries will be served before and after the concert.

Described as “piano magicians” by The Arts Desk, duo Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy bring their synergy to Newport for a magical night of interplay between two of today’s most compelling pianists, on Friday, July 17 at 8pm. Known for their inventive site-specific performances, from car parks in London to historic theaters in Aldeburgh, they now add The Breakers mansion to their impressive list of unique venues. Their program is anchored by Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring and Ravel’s Ma Mère l’Oye,  promising an evening of “magical” (BBC Music Magazine) and playful dialogue between two pianos and four hands.

On Saturday, July 18 at 8pm, one of the most beloved evenings of the Festival returns. This year, Opera Night: Golden Age features two of the world’s most celebrated voices. Tenor Lawrence Brownlee and soprano Erin Morley bring their unparalleled virtuosity to The Breakers for an unforgettable evening of bel canto masterpieces. From Rossini and Bellini to Verdi and Bizet, this dazzling program features some of opera’s most beloved arias, showcasing the exceptional technique that has made these two artists international stars. Experience the thrill of hearing music written for the world’s greatest voices performed by two artists at the absolute pinnacle of their careers.

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival concludes on Sunday, July 19 at 8pm with the Festival Finale: Harlem Quartet and Friends at The Breakers, featuring GRAMMY® Award-winning Harlem Quartet alongside Newport Classical’s Resident Festival Artists in an exhilarating evening of string octets. Known for bringing “a new attitude to classical music” (Cincinnati Enquirer), the Harlem Quartet brings its signature dynamic energy to Newport for a performance steeped in innovation and collaboration. With a program dynamically anchored by Shostakovich and Mendelssohn, this finale promises to be a bold and exciting send-off to the 2026 Festival.

For the full schedule, visit: www.newportclassical.org/music-festival 

About Newport Classical 

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools and community organizations to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

After a year-long community-driven process, and rooted in the organization’s mission “to celebrate the living art form of classical music in intimate and iconic locations,” Newport Classical released its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, presenting a clear roadmap to become a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant organization that enhances its programs and community engagement, promotes responsible financial growth and sustainability, and centers artistic excellence in every decision, as the organization aspires to open its doors even wider.

April 10: Newport Classical presents Violinist Yevgeny Kutik and Pianist Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner in World Premiere

L-R: Blake Pouliot, Henry Kramer, Trio Zimbalist. Photos available in high resolution here.

Newport Classical Continues 2025-2026 Chamber Series

Violinist Yevgeny Kutik Makes his Newport Classical Debut
with Pianist Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner

Featuring the World Premiere of Scattered Light by Jonathan Leshnoff
Commissioned by Newport Classical

Friday, April 10, 2026 at 7:30pm
Newport Classical Recital Hall | 42 Dearborn Street | Newport, RI
Information & Tickets: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – Newport Classical continues its fifth full-season Chamber Series, which features twelve concerts held on select Fridays between September 2025 and June 2026 at the organization’s home venue, the Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.). On Friday, April 10, 2026 at 7:30pm, violinist Yevgeny Kutik makes his Newport Classical debut with returning pianist Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner. Their program features the world premiere of Scattered Light by composer Jonathan Leshnoff, written for Kutik and commissioned by Newport Classical. The concert will also include Debussy’s Sonata for Violin and Piano in G Minor, Prokofiev’s Violin Sonata No. 1 in F Minor, Achron’s Hebrew Dance, and Grieg’s Sonata No. 3 In C Minor.

Yevgeny Kutik’s “dark-hued tone and razor-sharp technique” (The New York Times) and “old world charm” (WQXR) have captivated audiences worldwide. A recipient of the Salon de Virtuosi Grant and the Tanglewood Music Center’s Jules Reiner Violin Prize, Kutik has moved audiences with performances that marry emotional depth and technical brilliance. For this recital, Kutik collaborates with Newport Classical favorite, pianist Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner, who is returning after a sold-out recital in 2024. Celebrated as “a gifted virtuoso” (San Francisco Chronicle) with “mesmerizing artistry and extraordinary ability to communicate” (The Post-Standard), Sánchez-Werner partners with Kutik in a musical dialogue.

Jonathan Leshnoff composed his new work Scattered Light in response to George Washington's letter to the Newport Hebrew Congregation in August 1790 – a landmark statement of religious liberty, affirming that the new United States would give “to bigotry no sanction” and “to persecution no assistance.” The letter, which will be read aloud prior to the performance by Rhode Island Historian Laureate Keith Stokes, has come to symbolize an American ideal: that people of different faiths should be able to live in safety, dignity, and mutual respect.

Leshnoff writes, “Knowing that my music would be the next audible sound after the reading of this worthy text created a bond between the music and text so strong that the music is inextricably bound with the text, almost like the poem of a vocal song is bound with its music. The fact that the title of this work is taken from Washington’s letter is just the beginning of the text-to-music bond.”

Watch Yevgeny Kutik Perform Hebrew Lullaby, Op. 35, No. 2 by Joseph Achron

Newport Classical's Chamber Series takes place at Newport Classical Recital Hall in downtown Newport, known for its striking architecture and excellent acoustics. Audiences are invited to enjoy performances by world-class classical musicians in a relaxed setting, with complimentary wine generously provided by Gold's Wine and Spirits served when the doors open at 7:00pm and again during intermission. Both performers and audience members alike have described these concerts as some of their favorites. “Beautiful concert, high artistry and exciting programming . . . a deeply moving and soulful experience, with a rousing and brilliant virtuosity that kept you on the edge of your seat,” raved one attendee.

As part of Newport Classical's desire to create connections between classical music, the artists who perform it, and the Newport community, all musicians performing on the Chamber Series will also visit a local school or organization to present their talents and meaningfully engage with students and community members of all ages through Newport Classical's Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative.

The Chamber Series continues with rising-star pianist James Zijian Wei, first-prize winner at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition, who makes his highly anticipated Newport debut on May 8 with a program featuring Ravel, Liszt, and more. This season’s Chamber Series concludes on June 5 with flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Chelsea Wang, both Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect alumni, presenting a program of sparkling impressionism featuring works by Fauré, Lili Boulanger, and contemporary composers Reena Esmail, Ian Clarke, and Yuko Uebayashi.

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026. The complete schedule will be announced on March 24, 2026.

About Newport Classical 

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

Newport Classical Presents Two Community Concerts this Spring - PROJECT Trio on April 26 and Toomai String Quartet on May 24

Toomai String Quintet (top) and PROJECT Trio (bottom)

Newport Classical Presents Two Free Community Concerts this Spring

Free, Casual, and Welcoming to All
Presented by BankNewport

PROJECT Trio
Sunday, April 26, 2026 at 2:30pm
Newport Classical Recital Hall | 42 Dearborn St. | Newport, RI

Toomai String Quintet
Sunday, May 24, 2026 at 2:30pm
293 JT Connell Hwy. | Newport, RI

Information & Registration:
newportclassical.org/community-concerts

Newport, RI – Newport Classical announces two free concerts as part of its Community Concerts Series presented by BankNewport taking place in April and May 2026. PROJECT Trio, praised for “musicianship, joy, and surprise” by Downbeat Magazine, performs on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at 2:30pm at Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.) On Sunday, May 24, 2026 at 2:30pm, Toomai String Quintet performs at 293 JT Connell Hwy.

Audiences can look forward to enjoying these casual, engaging, and welcoming concerts designed especially for families right in their neighborhoods. Newport Classical's Community Concerts Series is free and open to the community; advanced registration is requested but not required for all performances.

On April 26, audiences will experience a high-energy, genre-blending afternoon with PROJECT Trio. Known for their electrifying stage presence, the trio fuses classical, jazz, hip-hop, and world music for audiences of all ages. This free concert features a program ranging from Mozart and Bach to Bernstein and Beatles classics, alongside original works by PROJECT Trio themselves. Praised by Gramophone for “ranging from Baroque to nu-Metal and taking in pretty much every stylism in between,” the group brings their infectious energy and playful creativity to Newport, transforming our stage into a playground of rhythm, melody, and surprise.

On May 24, Experience a free, family-friendly outdoor concert with the award-winning Toomai String Quintet at Newport Craft! Celebrated for their inventive arrangements and passion for Latin American repertoire, Toomai highlights creative approaches to music through the lens of Cuban and Brazilian traditions. A group of world-class musicians and passionate educators, Toomai combines these elements to create highly interactive programs for audiences of all ages. Set against the scenic Newport Craft Lawn with views of the Pell Bridge, this concert invites listeners of all ages to immerse themselves in the vivid sounds and stories of Latin American music. Bring your blankets and chairs and enjoy a drink from Newport Craft’s outdoor bar!

These concerts are generously presented as part of the BankNewport Community Concerts Series with additional support from the Newport County Fund at the Rhode Island Foundation and a Legislative Grant of the RI House of Representatives sponsored by Rep Cortvriend & Speaker Shekarchi..

Up next as part of Newport Classical’s Chamber Series, on March 13, baritone Benjamin Appl, whose voice “belongs to the last of the old great masters of song” (Süddeutsche Zeitung) and whose artistry has been described as “unbearably moving” (The Times), presents Schubert's hauntingly beautiful Die Winterreise with his frequent collaborator, pianist James Baillieu. Ars Poetica, an ensemble of acclaimed instrumentalists and vocalists with a passion for historical music, explores "Dance and Transfiguration" on March 27 with their colorful array of Baroque instruments. Violinist Yevgeny Kutik, praised for his "dark-hued and razor-sharp technique" (The New York Times), makes his Newport Classical debut on April 10 alongside returning pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner in works by Debussy, Prokofiev, and Grieg. Rising-star pianist James Zijian Wei, first-prize winner at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition, makes his highly anticipated Newport debut on May 8 with a program featuring Ravel, Liszt, and more. The Chamber Series concludes on June 5 with flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Chelsea Wang, both Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect alumni, presenting a program of sparkling impressionism featuring works by Fauré, Lili Boulanger, and contemporary composers Reena Esmail, Ian Clarke, and Yuko Uebayashi.

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026.

For Newport Classical’s complete concert calendar, visit www.newportclassical.org/concerts

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

Newport Classical presents Two Chamber Series Concerts - Benjamin Appl on March 13 and Ars Poetica on March 27

L-R: Benjamin Appl and James Baillieu, Ars Poetica. Photos available in high resolution here.

Newport Classical Continues 2025-2026 Chamber Series

Baritone Benjamin Appl and Pianist James Baillieu Perform Franz Schubert’s Die Winterreise
Friday, March 13, 2026 at 7:30pm

Ars Poetica Performs Dance and Transfiguration
Friday, March 27, 2026 at 7:30pm

Information & Tickets: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – Newport Classical continues its fifth full-season Chamber Series, which features twelve concerts held on select Fridays between September 2025 and June 2026 at the organization’s home venue, the Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.), with two concerts in March. Baritone Benjamin Appl and pianist James Baillieu perform on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 7:30pm and Baroque ensemble Ars Poetica performs on Friday, March 27, 2026 7:30pm.

On Friday, March 13, baritone Benjamin Appl, whose voice “belongs to the last of the old great masters of song” (Süddeutsche Zeitung) and whose artistry has been described as “unbearably moving” (The Times), presents Schubert's hauntingly beautiful Die Winterreise with his frequent collaborator, pianist James Baillieu. Named Gramophone Award Young Artist of the Year in 2016, Appl continues to captivate listeners with artistry that gracefully weaves timeless tradition and vivid, heartfelt expression. He brings this hauntingly beautiful song cycle to life, offering an unforgettable journey through loneliness, memory, and the stark poetry of winter. Appl’s recent recital debuts include Carnegie Hall, San Francisco Performances, Dallas Opera, Boston Celebrity Series, New York’s Park Avenue Armory (of all three Schubert song cycles), Sydney Opera House, Mozarteum Salzburg, Festival St. Denis, and three presentations of Winterreise by the Gran Teatre del Liceu Barcelona. 

Watch Benjamin Appl and James Baillieu Perform Die Post from Die Winterreise

On Friday, March 27, Newport Classical presents Ars Poetica, an ensemble of acclaimed musicians who share a passion for bringing historical music to the stage. Comprised of a colorful array of Baroque instruments, including viola, lute, recorder, and voice, Ars Poetica’s concerts combine innovative repertoire choices, particularly of music from the high Renaissance to early Baroque, with sophisticated interpretations. Their Newport Classical program Dance and Transfiguration finds its inspiration in music that has taken previous material and turned it into something new. This is celebrated in the beauty of bastarda repertoire, diminution practices, and in music with strong text settings. Each of these genres rely on previously written material to come to life. 

Watch Ars Poetica Perform Diego Ortiz:

Newport Classical's Chamber Series takes place at Newport Classical Recital Hall in downtown Newport, known for its striking architecture and excellent acoustics. Audiences are invited to enjoy performances by world-class classical musicians in a relaxed setting, with complimentary wine generously provided by Gold's Wine and Spirits served when the doors open at 7:00pm and again during intermission. Both performers and audience members alike have described these concerts as some of their favorites. “Beautiful concert, high artistry and exciting programming . . . a deeply moving and soulful experience, with a rousing and brilliant virtuosity that kept you on the edge of your seat,” raved one attendee. 

As part of Newport Classical's desire to create connections between classical music, the artists who perform it, and the Newport community, all musicians performing on the Chamber Series will also visit a local school or organization to present their talents and meaningfully engage with students and community members of all ages through Newport Classical's Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative.

The Chamber Series continues with violinist Yevgeny Kutik, who makes his Newport Classical debut on April 10 alongside returning pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner. Praised for his "dark-hued and razor-sharp technique" (The New York Times), Kutik performs works by Debussy, Prokofiev, and Grieg. Rising-star pianist James Zijian Wei, first-prize winner at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition, makes his highly anticipated Newport debut on May 8 with a program featuring Ravel, Liszt, and more. The Chamber Series concludes on June 5 with flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Chelsea Wang, both Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect alumni, presenting a program of sparkling impressionism featuring works by Fauré, Lili Boulanger, and contemporary composers Reena Esmail, Ian Clarke, and Yuko Uebayashi. 

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026.

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination. 

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

Newport Classical Launches 2026 Music Festival Poster Competition – Submit by April 1

Newport Classical Launches 2026 Music Festival Poster Competition

www.newportclassical.org

More Information: newportclassical.org/2026-poster-competition

Newport, RI – Newport Classical is thrilled to launch its first-annual 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival Poster Competition. Artists, designers, and creatives of all backgrounds are invited to submit original art for a future poster that will become a part of Newport Classical’s story and be seen by audiences from around the world. One winning design will become the official poster for the 2026 Newport Classical Summer Music festival. The poster will be placed around town to promote Newport Classical’s Summer festival, it will be featured on Newport Classical’s social media, and will be shown at Newport Classical’s festival concerts in July.

For over 56 years, Newport Classical has brought world-class musicians to some of the most iconic venues in Newport, Rhode Island — from gilded-age mansions to seaside outdoor venues, celebrating the living art of classical music.

Participants are encouraged to draw inspiration from Newport Classical’s venues, the Newport area, and the live performing arts but also to leave plenty of room for unique artistic expression.

Submissions are due April 1, 2026. The winning design will be announced on May 5, 2026. All submissions should be emailed to info@newportclassical.org with the subject line “Poster Competition Submission.” The winner will be compensated $500.00 USD.

Please provide a brief description of submitted work and any inspiration to explain the piece. All submissions must be in .PNG or .JPG file format and sized to 6.5" × 9" (3900 × 5400 px).

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026.

Schedule and line-up to be announced March 24, 2026.

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools and community organizations to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

After a year-long community-driven process, and rooted in the organization’s mission “to celebrate the living art form of classical music in intimate and iconic locations,” Newport Classical released its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, presenting a clear roadmap to become a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant organization that enhances its programs and community engagement, promotes responsible financial growth and sustainability, and centers artistic excellence in every decision, as the organization aspires to open its doors even wider.

Feb 20: Newport Classical Continues Chamber Series with Verona Quartet at Newport Classical Recital Hall Downtown

L-R: Blake Pouliot, Henry Kramer, Trio Zimbalist. Photos available in high resolution here.

Newport Classical Continues 2025-2026 Chamber Series

Verona Quartet Performs Scarlatti and Beethoven
Friday, February 20, 2026 at 7:30pm

Information & Tickets: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – Newport Classical continues its fifth full-season Chamber Series, which features twelve concerts held on select Fridays between September 2025 and June 2026 at the organization’s home venue, the Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.), with a performance by the Verona Quartet on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 7:30pm.

Celebrated by The New York Times as an “outstanding ensemble… cohesive yet full of temperament,” the Verona Quartet has captivated audiences worldwide with their “sensational, powerhouse performance[s]” (Classical Voice America). Recipient of Chamber Music America’s esteemed Cleveland Quartet Award, the ensemble makes a much-anticipated Newport Classical debut with a program that traces a vivid stylistic arc. Beginning with Scarlatti’s graceful Baroque sonata and Augusta Read Thomas’s radiant Clara’s Ascent, the journey unfolds through Janáček’s searingly expressive Kreutzer Sonata before culminating in Beethoven’s noble String Quartet Op. 127.

The Verona Quartet has appeared across four continents, captivating audiences at venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center (New York City), Kennedy Center, Library of Congress, the Smithsonian Institution (Washington, D.C.), Jordan Hall (Boston), Wigmore Hall (U.K.) and Melbourne Recital Hall (Australia), and has performed at festivals including La Jolla Summerfest, Chamber Music Northwest, Caramoor, the Texas Music Festival, Bravo! Vail, and with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. The quartet’s album SHATTER debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Traditional Classical Chart.

The ensemble describes their performances as “emanating from the spirit of storytelling.” The quartet’s name “Verona” pays tribute to William Shakespeare, one of the greatest storytellers of all time.

Watch the Verona Quartet perform:  

Newport Classical's Chamber Series takes place at Newport Classical Recital Hall in downtown Newport, known for its striking architecture and excellent acoustics. Audiences are invited to enjoy performances by world-class classical musicians in a relaxed setting, with complimentary wine generously provided by Gold's Wine and Spirits served when the doors open at 7:00pm and again during intermission. New this season, following the performance, audience members are invited to join the artists for an intimate reception at The Brenton Hotel, featuring complimentary wine and charcuterie, with additional food and beverages available for purchase.

Both performers and audience members alike have described these concerts as some of their favorites. “Beautiful concert, high artistry and exciting programming . . . a deeply moving and soulful experience, with a rousing and brilliant virtuosity that kept you on the edge of your seat,” raved one attendee.

As part of Newport Classical's desire to create connections between classical music, the artists who perform it, and the Newport community, all musicians performing on the Chamber Series will also visit a local school or organization to present their talents and meaningfully engage with students and community members of all ages through Newport Classical's Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative. While in Newport, the Verona Quartet will engage K-4 students at St. Michael’s Country Day School. 

The Chamber Series continues on March 13, when baritone Benjamin Appl, whose voice “belongs to the last of the old great masters of song” (Süddeutsche Zeitung) and whose artistry has been described as “unbearably moving” (The Times), presents Schubert's hauntingly beautiful Die Winterreise with his frequent collaborator, pianist James Baillieu. Ars Poetica, an ensemble of acclaimed instrumentalists and vocalists with a passion for historical music, explores "Dance and Transfiguration" on March 27 with their colorful array of Baroque instruments. Violinist Yevgeny Kutik, praised for his "dark-hued and razor-sharp technique" (The New York Times), makes his Newport Classical debut on April 10 alongside returning pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner in works by Debussy, Prokofiev, and Grieg. Rising-star pianist James Zijian Wei, first-prize winner at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition, makes his highly anticipated Newport debut on May 8 with a program featuring Ravel, Liszt, and more. The Chamber Series concludes on June 5 with flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Chelsea Wang, both Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect alumni, presenting a program of sparkling impressionism featuring works by Fauré, Lili Boulanger, and contemporary composers Reena Esmail, Ian Clarke, and Yuko Uebayashi.

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026.

About Newport Classical 

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

Newport Classical Announces Oliver Inteeworn as Executive Director

Oliver Inteeworn by Daniel Phillips, above photo and additional photos available in high resolution here.

 Newport Classical Announces Oliver Inteeworn as Executive Director

Seasoned Arts Leader to Guide Organization into Next Era of Growth

Information & Tickets: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – December 17, 2025 – Newport Classical, the most active year-round performing arts organization on Aquidneck Island, announces the appointment of Oliver Inteeworn as its new Executive Director, effective January 5, 2026. Inteeworn brings 25 years of leadership in the nonprofit performing arts industry and a proven track record of expanding access to classical music while fostering organizational growth. He succeeds Gillian Fox, who served as Executive Director from 2020 to 2025, and Eric Gershman who serves as interim Executive Director until December 31, 2025.

“Oliver is a visionary leader with a global view. His appointment represents a transformative moment for Newport Classical," says Suzanna Laramee, Board President of Newport Classical. “His expertise in strategic planning, audience development, digital innovation, and fundraising will be instrumental as we pursue our strategic goals and work to continue to transform Newport Classical into an internationally recognized destination. I know that he and our Board see the same bright future ahead of us.” 

According to Board Vice President Stephen Huttler, “Newport Classical was fortunate to have received an extraordinary number of applications from highly talented arts leaders from around the world. We selected Oliver because we believe he will produce even higher levels of community enjoyment and inspiration through expanded offerings, artistic stars, and presentation of uplifting classical music to diverse audiences across Aquidneck Island and beyond.”

Most recently, Inteeworn served as Executive Director of the American Symphony Orchestra (ASO) in New York City from 2018 to 2025, where he dramatically expanded the orchestra's mission of “great music for everyone.” During his tenure, the ASO presented more than 40 additional free orchestra and chamber concerts since 2020 across a wide range of New York City venues, reaching thousands of new and underserved listeners. Notable achievements include the largest and most diverse audiences in the orchestra’s history, both in-person and through his launch and continued expansion of ASO Online, which delivers free global streaming of performances, operas, chamber music, and original short films.

“I’m genuinely thrilled by Newport Classical’s incredible reputation for artistic excellence and by the magical setting of Newport, combined with the warm welcome and outstanding leadership of a board that has built such a successful, healthy organization,” Inteeworn says. “In just a few conversations, we’ve already established a shared vision for an even more ambitious future, and I see enormous potential for exponential growth on this already exceptional foundation. I look forward to working with the Board, staff, musicians, and the Newport community to bring to fruition Newport Classical’s ambitious 2025-2028 strategic plan and ensure that classical music continues to thrive here.”

Inteeworn will lead the implementation of Newport Classical’s newly adopted strategic plan, which focuses on four key pillars: expanding national awareness and establishing global recognition, engaging the people of Newport, generating new revenue streams, and maintaining organizational health. The plan represents a roadmap for responsible growth that focuses on increasing meaningful engagement and deepening impact, while staying true to the organization’s mission “to celebrate the living art form of classical music in intimate and iconic locations.”

“As Newport Classical embarks on this exciting new chapter, I could not be more thrilled to welcome Oliver Inteeworn as our next Executive Director,” says Trevor Neal, Newport Classical Director of Artistic Planning. “Oliver brings an inspiring combination of vision, collaboration, and a true passion for the transformative power of music. His leadership and creativity will be invaluable as we partner, to deepen our artistic impact, expand our reach, and create meaningful experiences for our audiences and community. I look forward to working closely with him to shape a vibrant future for Newport Classical.”

Prior to his role as Executive Director, Inteeworn served as General Manager of the American Symphony Orchestra (2007-2018), founding Managing Director of The Orchestra Now at Bard College (2015-2018), and held artistic planning and production positions at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, collaborating with hundreds of the world’s leading ensembles and soloists.

A trained musician with studies in Germany, Oliver Inteeworn holds a Diploma in Music Education (equivalent to a master’s degree) from the University of Music Saarbrücken and a Master of Arts in Arts Administration from Columbia University.

Newport Classical’s international executive search was led by a search committee chaired by members of the Board and attracted applicants worldwide 

Upcoming Newport Classical Performances

Newport Classical’s Chamber Series continues in 2026 with cellist Jonathan Swensen making his highly anticipated return on January 23 following his memorable 2024 debut as a Festival Artist. Honored with the 2022 Avery Fisher Career Grant and joint First Prize at the 2024 Naumburg International Cello Competition, Swensen is described as "a musician of charisma and thrilling physicality" (BBC Music Magazine). The Verona Quartet, celebrated by The New York Times as an "outstanding ensemble... cohesive yet full of temperament," makes their Newport Classical debut on February 20 with a program tracing a vivid stylistic arc from Scarlatti to Beethoven. On March 13, baritone Benjamin Appl, whose voice “belongs to the last of the old great masters of song” (Süddeutsche Zeitung) and whose artistry has been described as “unbearably moving” (The Times), presents Schubert's hauntingly beautiful Die Winterreise with his frequent collaborator, pianist James Baillieu. Ars Poetica, an ensemble of acclaimed instrumentalists and vocalists with a passion for historical music, explores "Dance and Transfiguration" on March 27 with their colorful array of Baroque instruments. Violinist Yevgeny Kutik, praised for his "dark-hued and razor-sharp technique" (The New York Times), makes his Newport Classical debut on April 10 alongside returning pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner in works by Debussy, Prokofiev, and Grieg. Rising-star pianist James Zijian Wei, first-prize winner at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition, makes his highly anticipated Newport debut on May 8 with a program featuring Ravel, Liszt, and more. The Chamber Series concludes on June 5 with flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Chelsea Wang, both Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect alumni, presenting a program of sparkling impressionism featuring works by Fauré, Lili Boulanger, and contemporary composers Reena Esmail, Ian Clarke, and Yuko Uebayashi.

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026.

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools and community organizations to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

After a year-long community-driven process, and rooted in the organization’s mission “to celebrate the living art form of classical music in intimate and iconic locations,” Newport Classical released its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, presenting a clear roadmap to become a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant organization that enhances its programs and community engagement, promotes responsible financial growth and sustainability, and centers artistic excellence in every decision, as the organization aspires to open its doors even wider.

Feb 6: Newport Classical Announces An Evening with Violinist Rachel Barton Pine at Rosecliff Mansion

Rachel Barton Pine by Lisa Marie Mazzucco. Photos available in high resolution here.

Newport Classical Announces Special Performance

An Evening with Violinist Rachel Barton Pine & Pianist Matthew Hagle
At Rosecliff Mansion

Friday, February 6, 2026 at 7:30pm

Information & Tickets: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – Newport Classical announces a very special performance, recently added to its spring season – An Evening with Violinist Rachel Barton Pine and Pianist Matthew Hagle – on Friday, February 6, 2026 at 7:30pm at Rosecliff Mansion (548 Bellevue Ave). The concert, which is Pine’s Newport debut, will feature Brahms’ Sonata No. 5 in E-flat major, Amanda Maier’s Sonata in B minor, Clara Schumann’s Three Romances, and Brahms’ Sonata No. 3 in D minor.

Acclaimed violinist Rachel Barton Pine, described by The New York Times as “striking and charismatic” with “bravura technique and soulful musicianship,” has garnered international praise for performances that combine her distinctive sound with a deep connection to musical history. With an infectious joy in music-making, Pine transforms audiences’ experiences of classical music. She has been recognized as “in the top echelon” of today’s performers by The Washington Post.

Pine’s discography consists of over 40 recordings, including 25 for Cedille Records, and her many recital appearances have included Davos, the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, Marlboro, Ravinia, Salzburg, Bravo! Vail, and Wolf Trap. She performs regularly with the world’s foremost orchestras, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Camerata Salzburg, and the Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta, Baltimore, Detroit, and Vienna Symphony Orchestras.

Watch Rachel Barton Pine’s NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert:

Up next, Newport Classical’s Chamber Series continues in 2026 with cellist Jonathan Swensen making his highly anticipated return on January 23 following his memorable 2024 debut as a Festival Artist. Honored with the 2022 Avery Fisher Career Grant and joint First Prize at the 2024 Naumburg International Cello Competition, Swensen is described as "a musician of charisma and thrilling physicality" (BBC Music Magazine). The Verona Quartet, celebrated by The New York Times as an "outstanding ensemble... cohesive yet full of temperament," makes their Newport Classical debut on February 20 with a program tracing a vivid stylistic arc from Scarlatti to Beethoven. On March 13, baritone Benjamin Appl, whose voice “belongs to the last of the old great masters of song” (Süddeutsche Zeitung) and whose artistry has been described as “unbearably moving” (The Times), presents Schubert's hauntingly beautiful Die Winterreise with his frequent collaborator, pianist James Baillieu. Ars Poetica, an ensemble of acclaimed instrumentalists and vocalists with a passion for historical music, explores "Dance and Transfiguration" on March 27 with their colorful array of Baroque instruments. Violinist Yevgeny Kutik, praised for his "dark-hued and razor-sharp technique" (The New York Times), makes his Newport Classical debut on April 10 alongside returning pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner in works by Debussy, Prokofiev, and Grieg. Rising-star pianist James Zijian Wei, first-prize winner at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition, makes his highly anticipated Newport debut on May 8 with a program featuring Ravel, Liszt, and more. The Chamber Series concludes on June 5 with flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Chelsea Wang, both Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect alumni, presenting a program of sparkling impressionism featuring works by Fauré, Lili Boulanger, and contemporary composers Reena Esmail, Ian Clarke, and Yuko Uebayashi. 

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026.

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools and community organizations to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.” 

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

After a year-long community-driven process, and rooted in the organization’s mission “to celebrate the living art form of classical music in intimate and iconic locations,” Newport Classical released its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, presenting a clear roadmap to become a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant organization that enhances its programs and community engagement, promotes responsible financial growth and sustainability, and centers artistic excellence in every decision, as the organization aspires to open its doors even wider.

Newport Classical Continues Chamber Series with Two November Concerts - Pianist Charlotte Hu and Saxophonist Valentin Kovalev

L-R: Charlotte Hu and Valentin Kovalev. Photos available in high resolution here.

Newport Classical Continues 2025-2026 Chamber Series

Pianist Charlotte Hu Performs Chopin
Friday, November 7, 2025 at 7:30pm

Saxophonist Valentin Kovalev performs Pictures at an Exhibition
Friday, November 21, 2025 7:30pm

Information & Tickets: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – Newport Classical continues its fifth full-season Chamber Series, which features twelve concerts held on select Fridays between September 2025 and June 2026 at the organization’s home venue, the Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.), with two concerts in November. Pianist Charlotte Hu performs on Friday, November 7, 2025 at 7:30pm and saxophonist Valentin Kovalev performs on Friday, November 21, 2025 at 7:30pm.

On November 7, virtuoso Taiwanese American pianist Charlotte Hu, celebrated as a "first-class talent" (The Philadelphia Inquirer) with "superstar quality" (Jerusalem Post), embarks on a compelling journey through Chopin's expressive world. From the sparkling Polonaise-Fantasie to the sweeping drama of the Piano Sonata No. 3, the heart of the evening features the luminous Nocturnes, all showcasing a different facet of Chopin’s emotional world through Hu’s expressive grace and refined lyricism. Charlotte Hu is a well-known interpreter of Chopin – her debut album, Chopin, was released in 2011 and was named Best Classical Album of the Year by Taiwan's prestigious Golden Melody Award. Hu has said that she hopes that her performances “encourage people to listen deeply and discover anew the work of even the most well-known composers.”

 Watch Charlotte Hu Perform Chopin:

On November 21, saxophonist Valentin Kovalev, a Gold Medal winner at the Jean-Marie Londeix International Saxophone Competition, brings his electrifying technique and soulful depth to his Newport Classical debut. A winner of the Concert Artists Guild competition, Kovalev presents a unique blend of virtuosic brilliance and heartfelt expression in a program that journeys from Romantic warmth to contemporary vibrancy featuring Schumann’s tender Fantasiestücke, Chaminade’s elegant Flute Concertino, Fazil Say’s vivid Suite, Debussy’s shimmering Rhapsody, the spirited energy of Barry Cockcroft’s KuKu, and Mussorgsky's art gallery-inspired masterpiece, Pictures at an Exhibition. Hailing from Siberia, Kovalev is an ebullient and highly eclectic performer whose unique style was developed after studying in Russia, France, and the US. He recently gave a sold-out debut recital at Carnegie Hall as a winner of the Naumburg Foundation 2022 Saxophone Competition.

Watch Valentin Kovalev Perform Debussy:

Newport Classical's Chamber Series takes place at Newport Classical Recital Hall in downtown Newport, known for its striking architecture and excellent acoustics. Audiences are invited to enjoy performances by world-class classical musicians in a relaxed setting, with complimentary wine generously provided by Gold's Wine and Spirits served when the doors open at 7:00pm and again during intermission. Both performers and audience members alike have described these concerts as some of their favorites. “Beautiful concert, high artistry and exciting programming . . . a deeply moving and soulful experience, with a rousing and brilliant virtuosity that kept you on the edge of your seat,” raved one attendee.

As part of Newport Classical's desire to create connections between classical music, the artists who perform it, and the Newport community, all musicians performing on the Chamber Series will also visit a local school or organization to present their talents and meaningfully engage with students and community members of all ages through Newport Classical's Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative. While in Newport, Charlotte Hu will visit Pell Elementary School and Valentin Kovalev will visit East Bay Community Action Program’s (EBCAP) Head Start preschool.

Up next, Newport Classical presents a free Community Concert, designed especially for families – classical guitarist Aaron Larget-Caplan presents his New Lullaby Project (comfy PJs and stuffed animals welcome) on October 12 at Emmanuel Church. The Chamber Series continues on October 17, with Trio Zimbalist in their Newport Classical debut, performing with what EfSyn calls “precision and feverish intensity,” in Beethoven's beloved "Archduke" Trio alongside works by Smetana and George Xiaoyuan Fu. 

The Chamber Series continues in 2026 with cellist Jonathan Swensen making his highly anticipated return on January 23 following his memorable 2024 debut as a Festival Artist. Honored with the 2022 Avery Fisher Career Grant and joint First Prize at the 2024 Naumburg International Cello Competition, Swensen is described as "a musician of charisma and thrilling physicality" (BBC Music Magazine). The Verona Quartet, celebrated by The New York Times as an "outstanding ensemble... cohesive yet full of temperament," makes their Newport Classical debut on February 20 with a program tracing a vivid stylistic arc from Scarlatti to Beethoven. On March 13, baritone Benjamin Appl, whose voice “belongs to the last of the old great masters of song” (Süddeutsche Zeitung) and whose artistry has been described as “unbearably moving” (The Times), presents Schubert's hauntingly beautiful Die Winterreise with his frequent collaborator, pianist James Baillieu. Ars Poetica, an ensemble of acclaimed instrumentalists and vocalists with a passion for historical music, explores "Dance and Transfiguration" on March 27 with their colorful array of Baroque instruments. Violinist Yevgeny Kutik, praised for his "dark-hued and razor-sharp technique" (The New York Times), makes his Newport Classical debut on April 10 alongside returning pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner in works by Debussy, Prokofiev, and Grieg. Rising-star pianist James Zijian Wei, first-prize winner at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition, makes his highly anticipated Newport debut on May 8 with a program featuring Ravel, Liszt, and more. The Chamber Series concludes on June 5 with flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Chelsea Wang, both Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect alumni, presenting a program of sparkling impressionism featuring works by Fauré, Lili Boulanger, and contemporary composers Reena Esmail, Ian Clarke, and Yuko Uebayashi.

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026. 

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.” 

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

Newport Classical Continues Chamber Series with Two October Concerts - Violinist Blake Pouliot with Pianist Henry Kramer and Trio Zimbalist

L-R: Blake Pouliot, Henry Kramer, Trio Zimbalist. Photos available in high resolution here.

Newport Classical Continues 2025-2026 Chamber Series

Violinist Blake Pouliot & Pianist Henry Kramer perform Schumann and Dvořák
Friday, October 3, 2025 at 7:30pm

Trio Zimbalist performs Beethoven
Friday, October 17, 2025 7:30pm

Information & Tickets: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – Newport Classical continues its fifth full-season Chamber Series, which features twelve concerts held on select Fridays between September 2025 and June 2026 at the organization’s home venue, the Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.), with the two concerts in October. Violinist Blake Pouliot and pianist Henry Kramer perform on Friday, October 3, 2025 at 7:30pm and Trio Zimbalist performs on Friday, October 17, 2025 at 7:30pm.

Celebrated for his “radiant sound and high-powered virtuosity” (Los Angeles Times), violinist Blake Pouliot brings his expressive and assured style to Newport on October 3. Joining Pouliot, and making a welcome return to Newport Classical, is acclaimed pianist Henry Kramer, praised by The New York Times for his “astonishingly confident technique.” Together, they deliver a Romantic program featuring Schumann’s stormy Violin Sonata No. 1, Dvořák’s spirited Zigeunerlieder, and the sweeping drama of Chausson’s Poème, promising an evening of captivating contrasts. The duo made their Carnegie Hall debut together this past May, and Pouliot has also recently made debuts with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, London Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, and more. He first performed as a soloist with orchestra at age eleven, and the Toronto Star describes him as “one of those special talents that comes along once in a lifetime.”

Watch Violinist Blake Pouliot:

Newport Classical welcomes Trio Zimbalist to Rhode Island in their Newport Classical debut on October 17. Trio Zimbalist has won over audiences and critics alike with what EfSyn (Greece) calls “precision and feverish intensity.” Praised for the “liveliness and vigor” of their playing and performances that are simply “pure enjoyment!” (Athinorama), the trio brings vibrant energy and deep musical expression to every note. They present a program that begins with George Xiaoyuan Fu’s Piano Trio, followed by two iconic works: Smetana’s deeply emotional Piano Trio in G minor, Op. 15, a powerful reflection on love and loss, and Beethoven’s Piano Trio in B-flat Major, Op. 97, the beloved “Archduke,” full of warmth, grace, and grandeur. The members of the trio – violinist Josef Špaček, cellist Timotheos Gavriilidis-Petrin, and pianist George Xiaoyuan Fu – are all distinguished alumni of the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. In demand across Europe and the U.S. as soloists, chamber musicians, and recitalists, they form an inimitable ensemble with repertoire spanning Romantic masterworks to today’s most lauded composers. The trio takes its name from famed violin virtuoso Efrem Zimbalist, a towering presence at the Curtis Institute of Music as faculty and director for a combined forty years. Trio Zimbalist carries on the violinist’s storied legacy through its commitment to artistic excellence.

Watch Trio Zimbalist:

Newport Classical's Chamber Series takes place at Newport Classical Recital Hall in downtown Newport, known for its striking architecture and excellent acoustics. Audiences are invited to enjoy performances by world-class classical musicians in a relaxed setting, with complimentary wine generously provided by Gold's Wine and Spirits served when the doors open at 7:00pm and again during intermission. Both performers and audience members alike have described these concerts as some of their favorites. “Beautiful concert, high artistry and exciting programming . . . a deeply moving and soulful experience, with a rousing and brilliant virtuosity that kept you on the edge of your seat,” raved one attendee.

As part of Newport Classical's desire to create connections between classical music, the artists who perform it, and the Newport community, all musicians performing on the Chamber Series will also visit a local school or organization to present their talents and meaningfully engage with students and community members of all ages through Newport Classical's Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative.

Up next, Newport Classical presents a free Community Concert, designed especially for families – classical guitarist Aaron Larget-Caplan presents his New Lullaby Project (comfy PJs and stuffed animals welcome) on October 12 at Emmanuel Church. The Chamber Series continues on November 7, with Taiwanese American pianist Charlotte Hu, celebrated as a "first-class talent" (The Philadelphia Inquirer) with "superstar quality" (Jerusalem Post), embarking on a compelling journey through Chopin's expressive world. Saxophonist Valentin Kovalev, Gold Medal winner at the Jean-Marie Londeix International Saxophone Competition, brings his electrifying technique and soulful depth to his Newport Classical debut on November 21 with a program culminating in Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition. 

The Chamber Series begins in 2026 with cellist Jonathan Swensen making his highly anticipated return on January 23 following his memorable 2024 debut as a Festival Artist. Honored with the 2022 Avery Fisher Career Grant and joint First Prize at the 2024 Naumburg International Cello Competition, Swensen is described as "a musician of charisma and thrilling physicality" (BBC Music Magazine). The Verona Quartet, celebrated by The New York Times as an "outstanding ensemble... cohesive yet full of temperament," makes their Newport Classical debut on February 20 with a program tracing a vivid stylistic arc from Scarlatti to Beethoven. On March 13, baritone Benjamin Appl, whose voice “belongs to the last of the old great masters of song” (Süddeutsche Zeitung) and whose artistry has been described as “unbearably moving” (The Times), presents Schubert's hauntingly beautiful Die Winterreise with his frequent collaborator, pianist James Baillieu. Ars Poetica, an ensemble of acclaimed instrumentalists and vocalists with a passion for historical music, explores "Dance and Transfiguration" on March 27 with their colorful array of Baroque instruments. Violinist Yevgeny Kutik, praised for his "dark-hued and razor-sharp technique" (The New York Times), makes his Newport Classical debut on April 10 alongside returning pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner in works by Debussy, Prokofiev, and Grieg. Rising-star pianist James Zijian Wei, first-prize winner at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition, makes his highly anticipated Newport debut on May 8 with a program featuring Ravel, Liszt, and more. The Chamber Series concludes on June 5 with flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Chelsea Wang, both Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect alumni, presenting a program of sparkling impressionism featuring works by Fauré, Lili Boulanger, and contemporary composers Reena Esmail, Ian Clarke, and Yuko Uebayashi.

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026.

About Newport Classical 

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

Sept 12: Newport Classical Opens 2025-2026 Chamber Series with Poiesis Quartet

Poiesis Quartet by Eden Davis. Photo available in high resolution here

Newport Classical Opens 2025-2026 Chamber Series with Poiesis Quartet

Friday, September 12 at 7:30pm

Information & Registration: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – Newport Classical opens its fifth full-season Chamber Series, which features twelve concerts held on select Fridays between September 2025 and June 2026 at the organization’s home venue, the Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.), with the Poiesis Quartet on Friday, September 12, 2025 at 7:30pm.

The Poiesis Quartet (Sarah Ma, violin; Max Ball, violin; Jasper de Boor, viola; and Drew Dansby, cello) is an ensemble on the rise, with several national competition wins recently under their belts. The group is the winner of the Grand Prize, Gold Medal, and Lift Every Voice prize at the 2023 Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, as well as the Gold Medal and BIPOC Prize at the 2023 St. Paul String Quartet Competition. Poiesis joined the Concert Artists Guild roster for North American management as winners of the Louis & Susan Meisel Competition in 2024. The quartet is touring nationally, and has performed abroad in Uruguay (2023), Italy at the 2024 Emilia Romagna Festival, and France at 2025 Festival d’Aix-en-Provence. Poiesis released its debut album as we are on the Bright Shiny Things label in 2024.

Derived from ancient Greek, the word Poiesis means “to make”; specifically, to create something that has not existed before. With an emphasis on expanding the string quartet repertoire with vibrant new works by emerging composers, the Poiesis Quartet infuses each performance with unique moments of synchronicity and verve. The quartet’s concert in Newport will begin with Beethoven’s radiant Op. 59 No. 3, an energetic and expressive work that sets the tone for an evening of dynamic contrasts. The program also features bold contemporary works including Kevin Lau's String Quartet No. 7, commissioned by the ensemble, alongside recent works by Brian Raphael Nabors and Sky Macklay. The concert ends with Calvary, a powerful arrangement of an African American spiritual, and Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson’s String Quartet No. 1, which draws inspiration from the same melody in a work that fuses classical form with spiritual roots.

Sarah Ma, violinist of the Poiesis Quartet, says, “We always prioritize creating emotionally compelling and fulfilling concert experiences. At its core, our program at Newport features our very first commissioned work – String Quartet No. 7 by Chinese-Canadian composer Kevin Lau. After Kevin's newborn baby son was diagnosed with a rare liver condition requiring surgeries and a rigorous recovery process, he wrote this work during this time as a 'surfacing' from grief and pain. Today, his family is healthy and happy, and his quartet ends with virtuosity, defiance, and joy, reminding us of gratitude for family. Especially paired with the Calvary spiritual, which speaks on Jesus' death and ascension to heaven, each work on this program in some way reflects on the necessity to persist towards and protect love. We always seek to foster an intellectual curiosity with our programs, encouraging audiences to seek out new musical forms that are robust, dense, and creative, and we also want that inspiration and passion to be rooted in a deeply meaningful and personal emotional conviction.”

Newport Classical's Chamber Series takes place at Newport Classical Recital Hall in downtown Newport, known for its striking architecture and excellent acoustics. Audiences are invited to enjoy performances by world-class classical musicians in a relaxed setting, with complimentary wine generously provided by Gold's Wine and Spirits served during intermission. Both performers and audience members alike have described these concerts as some of their favorites. “Beautiful concert, high artistry and exciting programming . . . a deeply moving and soulful experience, with a rousing and brilliant virtuosity that kept you on the edge of your seat,” raved one attendee.

As part of Newport Classical's desire to create connections between classical music, the artists who perform it, and the Newport community, all musicians performing on the Chamber Series will also visit a local school or organization to present their talents and meaningfully engage with students and community members of all ages through Newport Classical's Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative. The Poiesis Quartet will visit the Edward King House during the day to perform selections from their concert program later that evening and share stories about their musical journeys, inspirations, and more, inviting questions and conversation with attendees. 

Watch Poiesis Quartet in Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson’s String Quartet No. 1:  

Up next, Newport Classical presents three free Community Concerts this summer and fall, designed especially for families and taking place right in their neighborhoods. The GRAMMY® Award-winning Akropolis Reed Quintet performs an interactive children’s concert on August 23 at the Newport County YMCA. The Navy Band Northeast’s Crosswinds Woodwind Quintet takes the stage on September 7 at Miantonomi Memorial Park, and classical guitarist Aaron Larget-Caplan presents his New Lullaby Project (comfy PJs and stuffed animals welcome) on October 12 at Emmanuel Church.

On October 3, the Chamber Series continues with celebrated violinist Blake Pouliot, praised for his "radiant sound and high-powered virtuosity" (Los Angeles Times), performing with acclaimed pianist Henry Kramer in a Romantic program featuring Schumann's stormy Violin Sonata No. 1, Chausson's sweeping Poème, and Dvořák’s spirited Ziguenerleider. Trio Zimbalist makes their Newport Classical debut on October 17 with what EfSyn calls "precision and feverish intensity," presenting Beethoven's beloved "Archduke" Trio alongside works by Smetana and George Xiaoyuan Fu. Taiwanese American pianist Charlotte Hu, celebrated as a "first-class talent" (The Philadelphia Inquirer) with "superstar quality" (Jerusalem Post), embarks on a compelling journey through Chopin's expressive world on November 7. Saxophonist Valentin Kovalev, Gold Medal winner at the Jean-Marie Londeix International Saxophone Competition, brings his electrifying technique and soulful depth to his Newport Classical debut on November 21 with a program culminating in Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition.

The Chamber Series continues in 2026 with cellist Jonathan Swensen making his highly anticipated return on January 23 following his memorable 2024 debut as a Festival Artist. Honored with the 2022 Avery Fisher Career Grant and joint First Prize at the 2024 Naumburg International Cello Competition, Swensen is described as "a musician of charisma and thrilling physicality" (BBC Music Magazine). The Verona Quartet, celebrated by The New York Times as an "outstanding ensemble... cohesive yet full of temperament," makes their Newport Classical debut on February 20 with a program tracing a vivid stylistic arc from Scarlatti to Beethoven. On March 13, baritone Benjamin Appl, whose voice “belongs to the last of the old great masters of song” (Süddeutsche Zeitung), whose artistry has been described as “unbearably moving” (The Times), presents Schubert's hauntingly beautiful Die Winterreise with his frequent collaborator, pianist James Baillieu. Ars Poetica, an ensemble of acclaimed instrumentalists and vocalists with a passion for historical music, explores "Dance and Transfiguration" on March 27 with their colorful array of Baroque instruments. Violinist Yevgeny Kutik, praised for his "dark-hued and razor-sharp technique" (The New York Times), makes his Newport Classical debut on April 10 alongside returning pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner in works by Debussy, Prokofiev, and Grieg. Rising-star pianist James Zijian Wei, first-prize winner at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition, makes his highly anticipated Newport debut on May 8 with a program featuring Ravel, Liszt, and more. The Chamber Series concludes on June 5 with flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Chelsea Wang, both Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect alumni, presenting a program of sparkling impressionism featuring works by Fauré, Lili Boulanger, and contemporary composers Reena Esmail, Ian Clarke, and Yuko Uebayashi.

The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026.

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

Newport Classical Presents Three Free Community and Children’s Concerts in August, September, and October

Newport Classical Presents Three Free Community and Children’s Concerts

Free, Casual, and Welcoming to All
Presented by BankNewport

Children's Concert: Akropolis Reed Quintet
Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 4pm
Newport County YMCA | 792 Valley Road | Middletown, RI 

Community Concert: Navy Band Northeast’s Crosswinds Woodwind Quintet
Sunday, September 7, 2025 at 2:30pm
Miantonomi Memorial Park | 120 Hillside Ave. | Newport, RI

Children's Concert: Aaron Larget-Caplan's New Lullaby Project
Sunday, October 12, 2025 at 2:30pm
Emmanuel Church | 42 Dearborn St. | Newport, RI

 Information & Registration: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – Newport Classical announces three free concerts as part of its 2025 Community Concerts Series presented by BankNewport taking place from August through October 2025. The GRAMMY® Award-winning Akropolis Reed Quintet performs on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 4:00pm at the Newport County YMCA (792 Valley Road, Middletown). The Navy Band Northeast’s Crosswinds Woodwind Quintet takes the stage on Sunday, September 7, 2025 at 2:30pm at Miantonomi Memorial Park, and classical guitarist Aaron Larget-Caplan presents his New Lullaby Project on Sunday, October 12, 2025 at 2:30pm at Emmanuel Church.

Audiences can look forward to enjoying these casual, engaging, and welcoming concerts designed especially for families right in their neighborhoods. Newport Classical's Community Concerts Series is free and open to the community; advanced registration is requested but not required for all performances.

On August 23, inspire your little one's love for classical music with the GRAMMY® Award-winning Akropolis Reed Quintet in a lively, free, and family-friendly concert perfect for kids and adults alike. This fun and interactive hour features upbeat selections from their last six albums, spanning a wide range of musical styles, including favorites like Death Metal Chicken and Circusmuziek, musical storytelling games, and more. Come early to explore the instrument petting zoo, grab a hot dog from Wally's Wiener Wagon, and experience an afternoon of joyful music-making at the YMCA. This concert is made possible through the generous support of Randy and Becky Johnson in honor of their granddaughter Schuyler Madison.

On September 7, join Newport Classical at Miantonomi Memorial Park for an afternoon of free live music with the Navy Band Northeast’s Crosswinds Woodwind Quintet. These five talented active-duty Navy musicians bring the rich colors of flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, and horn to life with a fun, wide-ranging program of beloved classical works, patriotic favorites, and familiar tunes that are sure to get you dancing. Bring your own blanket or chairs and settle in for a relaxed, family-friendly concert under the open sky.

On October 12, get cozy with classical guitar. Snuggle up for a magical afternoon with acclaimed guitarist Aaron Larget-Caplan and his New Lullaby Project. Taking place at Emmanuel Church, this free interactive concert features original compositions commissioned from around the world, inviting young listeners to experience contemporary music through the traditional genre of the lullaby. Families will discover the classical guitar's gentle power through soothing melodies, Larget-Caplan's engaging storytelling, and unexpected musical surprises. Feel free to wear your comfiest PJs and bring your favorite stuffed animal and a blanket to enjoy the performance. 

These concerts are generously presented as part of the BankNewport Community Concerts Series with additional support from the Rhode Island Foundation Newport County Fund and a Walmart Foundation Spark Good Local Grant. 

For Newport Classical's complete concert calendar, visit www.newportclassical.org/concerts.  

About Newport Classical: 

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

Newport Classical Announces 2025-2026 Chamber Series - A Dynamic Season of Twelve Concerts from September 2025-June 2026

Photos available in high resolution here.

Newport Classical Announces 2025-2026 Chamber Series
Tickets on Sale July 29, 2025 

Presenting a Dynamic Season of Twelve Concerts
 from September 2025 through June 2026

"a thriving musical community, generously supported by locals whose love of the arts equals their pride in the town's elegant past." – BBC Music Magazine

 Information & Tickets: www.newportclassical.org

Newport, RI – Following its successful 56th annual summer festival, Newport Classical presents its fifth full-season Chamber Series held on select Fridays at 7:30pm, featuring twelve concerts held between September 2025 and June 2026, at the organization's air-conditioned home venue, Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.). Tickets will go on sale to the public on July 29 at www.newportclassical.org.

Newport Classical Director of Artistic Planning Trevor Neal says, "We are thrilled to be announcing our fifth Chamber Series, held in our intimate concert venue, the Newport Classical Recital Hall. Newport Classical is thriving, and we are proud to be bringing world-class musicians from around the world – both celebrated performers and rising stars – offering our community twelve evenings of extraordinary artistry, in addition to free community concerts, special events, and our holiday programming, to be announced later this year.”

Newport Classical's Chamber Series takes place at Newport Classical Recital Hall in downtown Newport, known for its striking architecture and excellent acoustics. The Chamber Series reaffirms Newport Classical's commitment to year-round classical music programming. Audiences are invited to enjoy performances by world-class classical musicians in a relaxed setting, with complimentary wine generously provided by Gold's Wine and Spirits served during intermission. Both performers and audience members alike have described these concerts as some of their favorites. “Beautiful concert, high artistry and exciting programming . . . a deeply moving and soulful experience, with a rousing and brilliant virtuosity that kept you on the edge of your seat,” raved one attendee.

As part of Newport Classical's desire to create connections between classical music, the artists who perform it, and the Newport community, all musicians performing on the Chamber Series will also go into the Newport-area public schools to perform for and speak with students, through Newport Classical's Music Education and Engagement Initiative.

Newport Classical's Chamber Series opens this fall on September 12 with the Poiesis Quartet, 2023 Grand Prize winner of the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition and lauded as "an ensemble to watch" by Hyde Park Herald. Their program features bold contemporary works including Kevin Lau's String Quartet No. 7, commissioned by the ensemble, alongside Prokofiev's vibrant String Quartet No. 2 and recent works by Michi Wiancko and Billy Childs. On October 3, celebrated violinist Blake Pouliot, praised for his "radiant sound and high-powered virtuosity" (Los Angeles Times), performs with acclaimed pianist Henry Kramer in a Romantic program featuring Schumann's stormy Violin Sonata No. 1, Chausson's sweeping Poème, and Dvořák’s spirited Ziguenerleider. Trio Zimbalist makes their Newport Classical debut on October 17 with what EfSyn calls "precision and feverish intensity," presenting Beethoven's beloved "Archduke" Trio alongside works by Smetana and George Xiaoyuan Fu. Taiwanese American pianist Charlotte Hu, celebrated as a "first-class talent" (The Philadelphia Inquirer) with "superstar quality" (Jerusalem Post), embarks on a compelling journey through Chopin's expressive world on November 7. Saxophonist Valentin Kovalev, Gold Medal winner at the Jean-Marie Londeix International Saxophone Competition, brings his electrifying technique and soulful depth to his Newport Classical debut on November 21 with a program culminating in Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition.

The Chamber Series continues in 2026 with cellist Jonathan Swensen making his highly anticipated return on January 23 following his memorable 2024 festival debut. Honored with the 2022 Avery Fisher Career Grant and joint First Prize at the 2024 Naumburg International Cello Competition, Swensen is described as "a musician of charisma and thrilling physicality" (BBC Music Magazine). The Verona Quartet, celebrated by The New York Times as an "outstanding ensemble... cohesive yet full of temperament," makes their Newport Classical debut on February 20 with a program tracing a vivid stylistic arc from Scarlatti to Beethoven. On March 13, baritone Benjamin Appl, whose voice “belongs to the last of the old great masters of song” (Süddeutsche Zeitung), whose artistry has been described as “unbearably moving” (The Times), presents Schubert's hauntingly beautiful Die Winterreise with his frequent collaborator, pianist James Baillieu. Ars Poetica, an ensemble of acclaimed musicians with a passion for historical music, explores "Dance and Transfiguration" on March 27 with their colorful array of Baroque instruments. Violinist Yevgeny Kutik, praised for his "dark-hued and razor-sharp technique" (The New York Times), makes his Newport Classical debut on April 10 alongside returning pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner in works by Debussy, Prokofiev, and Grieg. Rising-star pianist James Zijian Wei, first-prize winner at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition, makes his highly anticipated Newport debut on May 8 with a program featuring Ravel, Liszt, and more. The Chamber Series concludes on June 5 with flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Chelsea Wang, both Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect alumni, presenting a program of sparkling impressionism featuring works by Fauré, Lili Boulanger, and contemporary composers Reena Esmai, Ian Clarke, and Yuko Uebayashi.

Single tickets start at $45 and packages are available. AARP members and their guests receive discounts on Chamber Series tickets and packages, and thanks to a generous grant from the Gruben Charitable Foundation, a limited number of free student tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

During the 2025-2026 season, Newport Classical will also present several free family-friendly Community Concerts at neighborhood-centered locations, generously sponsored by BankNewport, and holiday programs, which will be announced later this year. The 2026 Newport Classical Music Festival will take place from July 2-19, 2026.

Newport Classical 2025-2026 Chamber Series Schedule At-A-Glance:

September 12: Opening Night with Poiesis Quartet
October 3: Blake Pouliot & Henry Kramer perform Schumann and Dvořák
October 17: Trio Zimbalist performs Beethoven
November 7: Pianist Charlotte Hu performs Chopin
November 21: Saxophonist Valentin Kovalev performs Pictures at an Exhibition
January 23: Cellist Jonathan Swensen Returns
February 20: Verona Quartet performs Scarlatti and Beethoven
March 13: Baritone Benjamin Appl and Pianist James Baillieu perform Schubert's Die Winterreise
March 27: Ars Poetica performs Dance and Transfiguration
April 10: Yevgeny Kutik & Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner perform Debussy and Grieg
May 8: Zijian Wei performs Ravel and Liszt
June 5: Chamber Series Finale: Amir Hoshang Farsi and Chelsea Wang

Complete concert details can be found at www.newportclassical.org/concerts. All Chamber Series concerts are held on select Fridays at 7:30pm at Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn Street).

About Newport Classical 

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.” 

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, Clarice Assad, and Cris Derksen.

July 12: Newport Classical Presents GRAMMY®-winning Soprano Karen Slack in African Queens – An Evening of Music and Storytelling

Karen Slack, Credit: Kia Caldwell

Newport Classical Music Festival Presents
Soprano Karen Slack in African Queens

An Evening of Music and Storytelling
Co-Commissioned by Newport Classical

Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 8pm
The Breakers | 44 Ochre Point Ave | Newport, RI
Tickets and Information

“One of opera’s strongest voices at present—both as a singer and a shaper of its culture”
– The Washington Post

www.newportclassical.org/music-festival

Newport, RI – The 2025 Newport Classical Music Festival presents GRAMMY® Award-winning soprano Karen Slack in African Queens on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 8pm in The Breakers (44 Ochre Point Ave). Co-commissioned by Newport Classical, the extraordinary evening of music and storytelling features Slack’s operatic virtuosity in a powerful selection of new works by both African and American composers. “One of the nation’s most celebrated sopranos” (Trilloquy), Karen Slack is joined by pianist Kevin J. Miller for this collaborative song cycle, which shines a spotlight on seven fierce African Queens, whose legacies as rulers and warriors have often been overlooked in the West, with each piece reflecting their beauty, passion, humility, and power.

The evening centers around eight new songs written for Slack by some of today’s most acclaimed composers including Jasmine Barnes, Damien Geter, Jessie Montgomery, Shawn Okpebholo, Dave Ragland, Carlos Simon, and Joel Thompson. Each new vocal work on the program is woven together through interspersed narrative text by Lorene Cary, Alicia Haymer, Tsitsi Ella Jaji, Deborah D.E.E.P Mouton, and Creative Collaborator for the African Queens project Jay Saint Flono.

Newport Classical has commissioned and presented several world premieres of works as part of its ongoing commission initiative as a commitment to the future of classical music, including works by Cris Derksen, Clarice Assad, Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, and Curtis Stewart. African Queens is made possible through the generous support of Suzanna and John Laramee in loving memory of Toni D. Green and in honor of her family and friends. Newport Classical is proud to be among the early presenters of this important new work.

In addition to Newport Classical, African Queens was co-commissioned for Karen Slack by the Ravinia Music Festival, Aspen Music Festival and School, Boston Symphony Orchestra for the Tanglewood Learning Institute, Denver Friends of Chamber Music, Washington Performing Arts, and The 92nd Street Y in New York.

From July 4-22, 2025, the Newport Classical Music Festival offers an unparalleled experience, combining 29 intimate concerts featuring over 100 artists with the grandeur and opulence of 11 iconic venues, making the City by the Sea an ultimate summer destination for live music. For 56 years, Newport Classical has united artists and audiences to experience the joy of music and the connections it inspires, offering concertgoers the opportunity to discover new composers or experience timeless works offered from a fresh perspective.

Highlights this year include Opening Night featuring pianists Alessio Bax and Lucille Chung; two evenings with Broadway star Jessica Vosk; performances by pianists Inon Barnatan, Sara Davis Buechner, and Wynona Wang; soprano Karen Slack's African Queens project co-commissioned by Newport Classical; the US premiere of a new work by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer David Lang co-commissioned by Newport Classical; performances by world-class artists including violinist Leila Josefowicz, The Westerlies, Third Coast Percussion, Attacca Quartet, Twelfth Night, and more; Opera Night: An American Tapestry; and Closing Night with Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and violinist Stefan Jackiw.

About Karen Slack

Praised for her “sizeable voice that captured all of the vacillating emotions” (The New York Times), GRAMMY® Award-winning soprano Karen Slack is celebrated as both an extraordinary performer and a change-maker in classical music.

Highlighting Slack’s 2024-2025 season is the nationwide tour of her new commissioning project, African Queens, a recital of new art songs by Jasmine Barnes, Damien Geter, Jessie Montgomery, Shawn Okpebholo, Dave Ragland, Carlos Simon and Joel Thompson. In July 2024, she released her debut commercial recording, Beyond the Years, alongside pianist Michelle Cann and ONEcomposer on Azica Records, and the project won the 2025 GRAMMY® Award for Best Classical Solo Vocal Album.

Slack has performed at the Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Washington National Opera, Scottish Opera and many others. In concert, her credits include the Melbourne and Sydney symphonies, Bergen Philharmonic, St. Petersburg Philharmonic, Orchestra of St. Luke’s at Carnegie Hall and Philadelphia Orchestra. She made her New York Philharmonic debut in May 2024.

A recipient of the 2022 Sphinx Medal of Excellence and 2025 MPower Artist Grant, Slack is an Artistic Advisor for Portland Opera, serves on the board of the American Composers Orchestra and Astral Artists and holds a faculty position at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. In the 2024-2025 season, she serves as Artist-in-Residence at both Lyric Opera of Chicago and Babson College.

A native Philadelphian, Slack is a graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music and the San Francisco Opera’s Merola Opera Program. Learn more at www.karenslack.com.

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of live performing arts on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, and Clarice Assad.

June 13: Newport Classical Presents the GRAMMY-Nominated Trio Mediaeval in Final Chamber Series Concert of the Season

Photos available in high resolution here.

Newport Classical Concludes 2024-25 Chamber Series with Enchanting Finale

Trio Mediaeval

Friday, June 13 at 7:30pm
Friday, March 21, 2025 at 7:30pm

Newport Classical Recital Hall | 42 Dearborn St | Newport, RI
Tickets and Information

Newport, RI – Newport Classical closes its fourth full-season Chamber Series, which featured twelve concerts held at the organization’s home venue the Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.), with the GRAMMY®-nominated Trio Mediaeval on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 7:30pm.

Known for their crystalline voices and ethereal blend, The New York Times reports, “few vocal ensembles produce quite as beautiful and finely blended a sound as this Norwegian trio.” For the 2024-25 Chamber Series finale, Trio Mediaeval (Anna Maria Friman, Linn Andrea Fuglseth, Jorunn Lovise Husan) immerses Newport audiences in the sonic worlds of Swedish and Norwegian vocal folk music. The ensemble showcases the countries’ traditional songs, hymns, fiddle tunes, ballads, and distinctive tradition of singing without words – a style known as tulling, sulling, or tralling, in which a sequence of consonants is invented or improvised by the singer. 

Of their program, the Trio says, “Originally, these folk songs were all a part of daily life; people created tunes and texts for all sorts of daily events and special occasions. In this program we present a selection of love songs, wedding tunes, lullabies, sun-prayers, ballads and hymns. None of this music was composed to be a part of the concert scene nor to be performed for an audience, as we understand the term today. In the twentieth century, ethnographers and folk song collectors began to record these wonderful songs and tunes, and a vast number of melodies have been transcribed and preserved for future generations of singers and listeners. It is quite a listening friendly programme with beautiful melodies and rhythms. In the same way that cultures, languages, and dialects vary from place to place, so do forms of musical expression. We would like to see this performance as our contribution to a living oral tradition; although these songs bear our musical imprint, they are colored by all those who have performed and passed on the music before us.”

Formed in 1997, Trio Mediæval has toured extensively throughout Europe and the United States, as well as in Japan, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Australia, performing at venues including Carnegie Hall in New York; the Barbican Centre in London; the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC; the Vienna Konzerthaus; the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, and other iconic halls throughout the world.

Recently, the trio has collaborated with musicians and orchestras such as Catalina Vicens, Vox Clamantis, Avanti! Chamber Orchestra, Arve Henriksen, Anders Jormin, John Potter, Sinikka Langeland Ensemble, Mats Eilertsen Trio, Grauschumaker Piano Duo & Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Bang on a Can All-Stars, the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra, Norwegian Radio Orchestra, Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra, Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra and Stavanger Symphony Orchestra.

Newport Classical's Chamber Series takes place at Newport Classical Recital Hall in downtown Newport, known for its striking architecture and excellent acoustics. The Chamber Series, newly expanded to twelve concerts held between September and June, reaffirms Newport Classical’s commitment to offer year-round classical music programming. Audiences are invited to enjoy performances by world-class classical musicians in a relaxed setting, with a complimentary glass of wine from Greenvale Vineyards and homemade treats by Newport Classical volunteers. 

As part of Newport Classical’s desire to create connections between classical music, the artists who perform it, and the Newport community, all musicians performing on the Chamber Series also visit Newport-area schools to perform for, speak with, and inspire students, through Newport Classical’s Music Education and Engagement Initiative.

Tickets are now available for the 2025 Newport Classical Music Festival, which takes place from July 4-22, 2025. Highlights include Opening Night featuring Two Pianos with Alessio Bax and Lucille Chung; two evenings with Broadway star Jessica Vosk, best known for her lead role in Wicked; performances by extraordinary pianists Inon Barnatan, Sara Davis Buechner, and Wynona Wang; celebrated soprano Karen Slack's African Queens project co-commissioned by Newport Classical with a national consortium; the US premiere of a new work by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer David Lang co-commissioned by Newport Classical with an international consortium; performances by world-class artists including violinist Leila Josefowicz, The Westerlies, Third Coast Percussion, harpist Emily Levin, guitarists Ziggy and Miles, Palaver Strings, Attacca Quartet, Twelfth Night, The Gesualdo Six, Tallā Rouge, Empire Wild, and more; Opera Night: An American Tapestry; and Closing Night with Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and violinist Stefan Jackiw. For the fifth year in a row, Newport Classical has commissioned a brand new work to be premiered at the Festival. This year's Composer-in-Residence is Cris Derksen, a Juno-nominated Indigenous cellist and composer, who has written a new work for the Galvin Cello Quartet. 

About Newport Classical

Newport Classical is a premier performing arts organization that welcomes people of every age, culture, and background to intimate, immersive musical experiences. The organization presents world-renowned and up-and-coming artistic talents at stunning, storied venues across Newport – an internationally sought-after cultural and recreational destination.

Originally founded in 1969 as Rhode Island Arts Foundation at Newport, Inc., Newport Classical has a rich legacy of musical curiosity having presented the American debuts of hundreds of international artists and is most well-known for hosting three weeks of concerts in the summer in the historic mansions throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island. In the 56 years since, Newport Classical has become the most active year-round presenter of music on Aquidneck Island, and an essential pillar of Rhode Island’s cultural landscape, welcoming thousands of patrons all year long.

Newport Classical invests in the future of classical music as a diverse, relevant, and ever-evolving art form through its four core programs – the one-of-a-kind Music Festival; the Chamber Series in the Newport Classical Recital Hall; the free, family-friendly Community Concerts Series; and the Music Education and Engagement Initiative that inspires students in local schools to become the arts advocates and music lovers of tomorrow. These programs illustrate the organization’s ongoing commitment to presenting “timeless music for today.”

In 2021, the organization launched a new commissioning initiative – each year, Newport Classical will commission a new work by a Black, Indigenous, person of color, or woman composer as a commitment to the future of classical music. To date, Newport Classical has commissioned and presented the world premiere of works by Stacy Garrop, Shawn Okpebholo, Curtis Stewart, and Clarice Assad.