Chamber Music Charleston (CMC) continues its 20th Anniversary Season with a series of performances and events honoring America’s 250th anniversary through its ambitious Echoes of the Saint Cecilia Society initiative. This multi-event project explores Charleston’s pivotal role in the nation’s early musical life while celebrating the enduring influence of European composers on America’s artistic development.
Funded in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, Echoes of the Saint Cecilia Society draws inspiration from the historic Saint Cecilia Society, founded in Charleston in 1766 and among the earliest musical organizations in the United States. Through its concerts until 1820, the Society helped cultivate a vibrant cultural life in a young nation. By revisiting repertoire connected to this era in historically resonant spaces, CMC honors the Society’s lasting contributions to America’s musical identity.
The series continues with “Echoes of the Saint Cecilia Society: Act 2,” a Lecture Concert featuring CMC President and Artistic Director Sandra Nikolajevs alongside historian Dr. Nicholas Butler at Circular Congregational Church (150 Meeting Street) on Friday, May 1 at 7pm. This program offers insight into the Society’s origins and cultural significance, complemented by live performance of movements from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s String Quartet in F Major, K. 590, one of his final and most refined works. This event is presented free of charge, with advance reservations encouraged.
CMC expands the reach of this initiative with performances throughout the Lowcountry. On Saturday, May 2 at 7:00 PM, CMC returns to Edisto Island for a special concert at the Presbyterian Church on Edisto Island. The program features Mozart’s String Quartet in F Major, K. 590 alongside Béla Bartók’s String Quartet No. 2 and Charlton Singleton’s Testimony, reflecting both the classical traditions heard in early Charleston and the evolving global influences that shaped American music. This exciting program will be performed by the Young Artists of the McDuffie Center for Strings, one of the most selective music conservatories in the country. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
On Monday, May 4 at 7:00 PM, CMC partners with the McClellanville Arts Council to present a free performance at the Arts Council Gallery. Featuring the same program of Mozart and Bartók, this concert continues CMC’s commitment to community engagement and accessibility across the region.
These events lead into the grand finale of CMC’s 20th Anniversary Season on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 3:00 PM at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church. This special Benefit Concert features the internationally acclaimed Isidore String Quartet, winners of the 2022 Banff International String Quartet Competition and recipients of a 2023 Avery Fisher Career Grant. The ensemble will perform Joseph Haydn’s Quartet in B-flat Major, Op. 76 No. 4 “Sunrise” and Antonín Dvořák’s Quartet No. 13 in G Major, Op. 106.
Praised for their fresh and thoughtful interpretations, the Isidore Quartet has quickly established itself as one of the leading ensembles of its generation, with appearances at major venues including the Philharmonie de Paris, Wigmore Hall in London, and the Library of Congress. Their work reflects a commitment not only to artistic excellence, but also to meaningful community engagement, particularly with youth, older adults, and underserved populations.
The May 3 concert will be followed by a celebratory party at the Francis Marion Hotel. Tickets begin at $45, with premium packages including the post-concert celebration available for $200.
Founded in 2006, Chamber Music Charleston is recognized for its engaging programming performed at the highest artistic caliber, presenting more than 50 performances each season. From major concerts at Dock Street Theatre and St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church to intimate performances in historic homes and community venues, CMC brings together internationally acclaimed guest artists and Charleston’s leading musicians.
For tickets and additional information about all events, please visit: chambermusiccharleston.org.