A look back in celebration of a memorable chamber music event By Janie Henderson, The Seaside Institute
Hosted by the Seaside Institute in November 2017, The Seaside Strings: A Weekend of Chamber Music kicked off with a concert at Ruskin Square. It was a perfect afternoon, with sunlight peeking through the trees and beautiful chamber music flowing down the sidewalks and into the shops. Some people planned ahead and brought beach chairs and a glass of wine. Others who were simply passing through were pleasantly surprised by the concert, and decided to stay a while.
On Saturday, the spotlight was on a group of students from Florida State University. Hosted by The REP Theatre, an intimate concert showcased the talent of the future. The featured groups — Lux Quartet, Cosmos New Music, and Trio Azul each gave a stunning performance. We are certain that these students have a bright future ahead of them.
The Grand Finale was held at the Seaside Chapel, which made for a one-of-a-kind experience for concert goers. With ten performers, the sound was full and exquisite. With pieces composed by Johann Sebastian Bach, Peter Ilich Tchaikovksy and Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, the evening provided a true chamber music experience.
Along with the concerts in Seaside, the Seaside Strings program offered outreach in Walton County Schools. An educational demonstration was provided to Bay Elementary, Butler Elementary and Emerald Coast Middle School. Future chamber music players were certainly inspired by this outreach. Perhaps those students will return to Seaside in the future for a concert of their own!
Thank you to our Artistic Director, Boyan Bonev, who coordinated the performers throughout the weekend and provided the educational outreach in Walton County. And thank you to Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant for sponsoring the event.
