Celebrating the 55th Anniversary.

For 55 years, Newport Classical has been a beacon for artistry, drawing in countless concertgoers to revel in exceptional performances within unique and intimate settings. Each July, against the picturesque backdrop of the City by the Sea, our festival stands out as an unparalleled experience. Featuring 27 concerts held in 11 historic venues, patrons can craft a Festival itinerary tailored to their preferences. Be it the discovery of a new composer, the rhythm of percussion, or revisiting a beloved work with a fresh perspective, we invite you to broaden your musical horizons.

Schedule of Events:

July 4, 2024:

7:30 PM: Patriotic Pops - King Park

Fenway Brass Quintet & Percussion

This concert is generously presented as part of the BankNewport Community Concerts Series with additional support from a Rhode Island Foundation Community Grant.

Join us for this relaxed open-air concert at King Park to kick off your Fourth of July festivities (and the Music Festival!). Fenway Quintet, one of the Boston Area’s most esteemed professional brass quintets, have prepared a joyous patriotic program complete with percussion, celebrating America’s birthday with iconic sounds that shaped the nation. Bring your family, cozy up, and stay for the fireworks with a stunning view of the Pell Bridge. Celebrate in style with music, laughter, and the spirit of Independence Day.

Register here – Free!

July 5, 2024:

8:00 PM: Opening Night with Sphinx Virtuosi - The Breakers

Experience the groundbreaking artistry of Sphinx Virtuosi, an extension of the renowned Sphinx Organization committed to amplifying Black and Latinx voices in classical music. Set against the opulent backdrop of The Breakers, the self-conducted chamber orchestra delivers a pioneering program spotlighting historically marginalized composers. With cellist Thomas Mesa joining their ranks as soloist for Jessie Montgomery’s Divided, prepare to be moved to your core by the sheer brilliance and passion of this 18-piece ensemble, delivering a performance that will leave you breathless.

Sphinx Virtuosi
Thomas Mesa, cello

Program:

QUENTON BLACHE Habari Gani
JAVIER FARIAS Abran Paso
ANDREA CASARRUBIOS Herencia
ADOLPHUS HAILSTORK from Sonata da Chiesa
Dona Nobis Pacem
Exultate
JESSIE MONTGOMERY Divided with Thomas Mesa
PERKINSON Sinfonietta No. 2, Generations
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 6, 2024:

8:00 PM: Joyce Yang - The Breakers

Captivating audiences with her virtuosity and interpretive sensitivity, GRAMMY®-nominated pianist Joyce Yang brings her tactile, expressive playing to the timeless beauty of The Breakers. Acclaimed by the New York Times for her “vivid and beautiful playing,” Yang promises a passionate evening, captivating audiences with selections from the legendary Russian composers of the Romantic and Classical eras. Embark on a journey through the timeless beauty of classical music, where each note resonates with depth and emotion, ensuring an unforgettable and transformative experience for all in attendance.

Joyce Yang, piano

Program:

TCHAIKOVKSY The Seasons, Op. 37a (selections)
RACHMANINOFF Three Preludes
STRAVINSKY/AGOSTI The Firebird Suite
MUSSORGSKY Pictures at an Exhibition
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 7, 2024:

9:00 AM: Italian Strings in Nature - Norman Bird Sanctuary

Surrounded by the serene beauty of the Norman Bird Sanctuary, join the Festival Artists for this delightful morning program of Italian chamber music, including an arrangement of Rossini’s beloved William Tell Overture, artfully arranged to captivate and delight audiences amidst the serene natural surroundings. Accompany us for a delightful journey through the heart of Italy’s musical heritage, where each note resonates with the beauty of the landscape, promising a morning of unparalleled enchantment and musical discovery.

Ariel Horowitz, violin
SooBeen Lee, violin
Jordan Bak, viola
Jonathan Swensen, cello

Program:

BOCCHERINI String Trio in D Major, Op. 38, No. 2
CHERUBINI String Quartet No.1 in E-flat Major
WOLF Italian Serenade
PUCCINI Crisantemi
ROSSINI William Tell Overture
(arr. Appleyard)
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

8:00 PM: Chanticleer - The Breakers

GRAMMY® Award-winning male-voiced “orchestra of voices” Chanticleer makes their much-anticipated return to Newport after a sold-out concert during the 2021 Festival. Called Music of a silent world, this program features songs of the natural world and gives a voice to the rocks, stones, trees, and rivers that share the planet with us. Works include music by Stephen Sondheim, Heinrich Isaac, and Joni Mitchell, and a new commission from Chanticleer’s composer in residence, Ayanna Woods.

“The singing of Chanticleer is breathtaking in its accuracy of intonation, purity of blend, variety of color and swagger of style.” – The Boston Globe

Program:

WEILL Lost in the Stars
(arr. Gene Puerling)
REGER Abendständchen, Op. 83, No. 3
CARMICHAEL Stardust
(arr. Jared Graveley)
ISAAC Cibavit eos
ISAAC Innsbruck, ich muss dich lassen
SONDHEIM I Remember
(arr. Joseph Jennings)
MAJEL CONNERY I Am a Tree from The Rivers are our Brothers
(arr. Majel Connery and Doug Balliett)
AYANNA WOODS I miss you like I miss the trees
REGER Abschied, Op. 83, No. 9
RONELL Willow Weep for Me
(arr. Joseph Jennings)
MAJEL CONNERY I Am a River from The Rivers are our Brothers
(arr. Majel Connery and Doug Balliett)
PETER GABRIEL Washing of the Water
(arr. Mason Bates)
MAJEL CONNERY I Am the Air from The Rivers and our Brothers
(arr. Majel Connery and Doug Balliett)
REGER Hochsommernacht, Op. 83, No. 5
REGER Eine gantz neu Schelmweys, Op. 83, No. 6
MAJEL CONNERY I Am a Cloud from The Rivers Are Our Brothers
(arr. Majel Connery and Doug Balliett)
JONI MITCHELL Both Sides Now
(arr. Vince Peterson)
+ Additional songs to be announced from the stage
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 9, 2024:

11:00 AM: Piano Trios - The Elms

Experience a morning of musical mastery at The Elms as our esteemed Festival Artists enchant you with an extraordinary concert of piano trios. Delve into the rich tapestry of classical repertoire, starting with Beethoven’s lively and nimble Piano Trio in B-flat Major, then journeying through Elfrida Andree’s evocative and dramatic Piano Trio in G minor, before culminating in the sublime beauty of Schumann’s revered Piano Trio No. 1. Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance and virtuosity of these compositions, performed with passion and precision by our resident artists, promising a morning of enchantment and musical delight not to be missed.

Ariel Horowitz, violin
SooBeen Lee, violin
Jonathan Swensen, cello
Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner, piano

Program:

BEETHOVEN Piano Trio in B-flat Major, Op. 11
ANDRÉE Piano Trio in G minor
SCHUMANN Piano Trio No. 1, Op. 63
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

8:00 PM: An Evening with Laura Benanti - The Breakers

Step into the world of Broadway magic as Newport welcomes the legendary Laura Benanti, celebrated for her Tony Award-winning performances and captivating presence on stage and screen, including her memorable role in HBO’s The Gilded Age. From her iconic portrayals in Gypsy, Into the Woods, Nine, and My Fair Lady, Laura’s unparalleled talent promises to dazzle audiences with her extraordinary voice and undeniable star power in an intimate performance not to be missed.

Laura Benanti, voice
Billy Stritch, piano

July 10, 2024:

4:00 PM: Duo Kayo - Newport Art Museum

Two of our 2023 Festival Artists, violist Edwin Kaplan and cellist Titilayo Ayangade, return to Newport as the innovative pair, Duo Kayo. Making bold statements in the classical music world, Duo Kayo challenges traditional thinking about the genre, serving as a vessel for new and exciting music. Surrounded by the beautiful art collection that is the Newport Art Museum, enjoy an interdisciplinary afternoon, featuring a diverse program of intriguing pieces, from Vivaldi’s Double Cello Concerto to Leonard Bernstein’s “Cool” from West Side Story. 2024 Festival Artists Jordan Bak and Jonathan Swensen join Kaplan and Ayangade for the final work by Paul Wiancko, Vox Petra.

Edwin Kaplan, viola
Titilayo Ayangade, cello

Program:

VIVALDI Double Cello Concerto for Viola and Cello
(arr. Cicely Parnas)
CAROLINE SHAW Limestone and Felt
JESSICA MEYER But Not Until
PIAZOLLA La Calle 92
CURTIS STEWART New Work, Title TBD
BERNSTEIN “Cool” from West Side Story
GARTH KNOX Quartet for One
PAUL WIANCKO Vox Petra for two violas and two cellos
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

8:00 PM: An Evening with Laura Benanti - The Breakers

Step into the world of Broadway magic as Newport welcomes the legendary Laura Benanti, celebrated for her Tony Award-winning performances and captivating presence on stage and screen, including her memorable role in HBO’s The Gilded Age. From her iconic portrayals in Gypsy, Into the Woods, Nine, and My Fair Lady, Laura’s unparalleled talent promises to dazzle audiences with her extraordinary voice and undeniable star power in an intimate performance not to be missed.

Laura Benanti, voice
Billy Stritch, piano

July 11, 2024:

11:00 AM: French Musings - The Elms

Inspired by the 18th-century French chateau d’Asnieres outside Paris, The Elms is the perfect place for a morning concert of delightful French repertoire ranging from Baroque elegance to neoclassical charm. The Festival Artists breathe new life into these timeless masterpieces, creating an unforgettable concert experience steeped in elegance and charm.

Ariel Horowitz, violin
SooBeen Lee, violin
Jordan Bak, viola
Jonathan Swensen, cello
Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner, piano

Program:

MARAIS Five Old French Dances for Viola and Piano
LECLAIR Violin Sonata in D Major, Op. 9, No. 3, Tombeau
TAILLEFERRE Piano Trio
SAINT-SAËNS Piano Quartet in B-flat Major, Op. 41
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

8:00 PM: Opera Night: La tragédie de Carmen - The Breakers

Experience the captivating reimagining of Bizet’s timeless masterpiece, Carmen, as director Peter Brook delves deep into the intricate relationships of the four lead characters in La tragédie de Carmen, inspired by Prosper Mérimée’s novella. Get closer to the heart of the narrative and feel the elemental power of the main character unfold in a sensational semi-staged production directed by Tara Branham. Immerse yourself in the same beloved arias and musical moments, infused with renewed vitality and intensity, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of The Breakers for an unforgettable formal evening, complete with a red carpet photo experience. Don’t miss this thrilling fusion of tradition and innovation, brimming with love, lust, passion, and betrayal.

Dane Suarez, Don José
Stephanie Sanchez, Carmen
Maria Brea, Micaëla
Jeffrey Hoos, Escamillo
Tara Branham, Director
Charles Kim, Music Direction, piano

Program:

BIZET/PETER BROOK La tragédie de Carmen
*Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 12, 2024:

5:15 AM: Sunrise Meditations - Chinese Tea House

Witness the dawn of a new day with the Newport Classical Festival Artists as they enchant audiences with a transformative program of meditative musical poetics. Immerse yourself in a harmonious journey curated to instill a profound sense of positivity and buoyancy, leaving an indelible impression that accompanies you throughout the day. Join us for a truly uplifting morning experience that promises to awaken your senses and ignite your spirit, setting the perfect tone for a day filled with inspiration and joy.

Complimentary pastries are provided courtesy of The French Confection.

Ariel Horowitz, violin
SooBeen Lee, violin
Jordan Bak, viola
Jonathan Swensen, cello

Program:
TELEMANN Fantasie No. 1 in B-flat Major, TWV 40:14
TELEMANN Fantasie No. 5 in A Major, TWV 40:18
GLIÈRE 8 Pieces for Violin and Cello, Op. 39
SIBELIUS Suite for String Trio in A Major
HAYDN String Quartet in G Major, Op. 76, No. 1, Jack in the Box
ELGAR Salut d’amour
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

8:00 PM: A Far Cry - The Breakers

Experience the captivating return of GRAMMY®-nominated chamber orchestra A Far Cry to Newport, joined by Canadian pianist Dinuk Wijeratne and acclaimed Syrian clarinetist Kinan Azmeh. This deeply personal and reflective program explores themes of emigration, travel, and home, featuring original compositions by Wijeratne and Azmeh in the first half. Following intermission, revel in the enchanting melodies of a young Janá?ek as he draws inspiration from Czech folk traditions, a lush and mesmerizing showcase for the ensemble. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of musical storytelling and global connection.

Kinan Azmeh, clarinet
Dinuk Wijeratne, piano

Program:

KAREEM ROUSTOM Dabke
KINAN AZMEH Ibn Arabi Postlude
DINUK WIJERATNE Clarinet Concerto
JANÁ?EK Idyll Suite for String Orchestra
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 13, 2024:

8:00 PM: Canadian Brass - The Breakers

Hailed as the epitome of brass excellence, Canadian Brass treats Newport to an extensive program of compositions ranging from works by Mozart, Bach, and Rimsky-Korsakov to the beloved Beatles Songbook. Renowned for their captivating concert presentations that seamlessly blend virtuosity with charm, Canadian Brass promises to ignite The Breakers with their genre-transcending talents, ensuring an unforgettable evening of musical brilliance and boundless entertainment.

Program to be announced from the stage, and selection may include:

MOZART Overture to The Magic Flute, K620
(arr. Watkin)
BACH – VIVALDI Concerto in D Major, BWV 972
(arr. Burgstaller)
LENNON – MCCARTNEY Beatles Songbook
(arr. Dedrick)
MOZART Suite Mozart
(arr. Mills and Frackenpohl)
PIAZZOLA Tangos Nuevos
(arr. Burgstaller)
KAMEN Quintet
PRYOR Thoughts of Love
(arr. Cherry)
RIMSKY-KORSAKOV Scheherazade
(arr. Ridenour)
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 14, 2024:

3:00 PM: Poulenc Trio with Hanzhi Wang - Redwood Library & Athenæum

Prepare to have your perceptions transformed as the captivating Hanzhi Wang unveils the accordion’s versatility and charm in a spellbinding performance at the historic Redwood Library and Athenaeum. Witness the fusion of Wang’s ethereal mastery with the timeless elegance of the acclaimed Poulenc Trio, creating an enchanting musical dialogue that transcends genres and eras. Step into a realm of intimacy and discovery as these virtuosic artists breathe new life into the classical repertoire, promising an unforgettable concert experience that defies expectations and leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.

Aleh Remezau, oboe
Bryan Young, bassoon
Irina Kaplan Lande, piano
Hanzhi Wang, accordion

Program:

VIVALDI Concerto grosso in D minor, Op. 3, No. 11
POULENC Selected Songs
Les Chemins de l’amour
C
Toréador
JURI SEO Breathing Light
VIET CUONG Explain Yourself!
HANZHI WANG Mountain’s song: Echoes of Kawagarbo [World Premiere]
ROSSINI Fantaisie Concertante on themes from L’Italiana in Algeri
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

8:00 PM: An Evening with Violinist Anne Akiko Meyers - The Breakers

Esteemed American violinist Anne Akiko Meyers graces the illustrious halls of The Breakers mansion in her Newport debut with an exquisite program that includes a new piece specifically commissioned for Meyers by the legendary Philip Glass. Joined by the virtuosic pianist Max Levinson, this evening promises to be a radiant celebration of artistic brilliance and innovation, ensuring an unforgettable experience that resonates long after the final note fades into the grandeur of the night.

Anne Akiko Meyers, violin
Max Levinson, piano

Program:

CORELLI Sonata in D minor, Op. 5, No. 12, La Folia
(arr. Andy Poxon)
PHILIP GLASS New Chaconne
BEETHOVEN Violin Sonata No. 5 in F Major, Op. 24, Spring
MORTEN LAURIDSEN Sure On This Shining Night
MORTEN LAURIDSEN Dirait-On
ARTURO MÁRQUEZ Danzón No. 2
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 16, 2024:

11:00 AM: Classical Movie Music - Blithewold Mansion

Experience the emotional depth of John Williams’ haunting Schindler’s List and the nostalgic charm of E.T., alongside the adventurous spirit of Indiana Jones. Journey through the realms of fantasy with enchanting selections from Harry Potter, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King, and Lord of the Rings, as the magic of film meets the beauty of chamber music. Relive the magic of blockbuster classics performed by our resident Festival Artists at the beloved Blithewold Mansion?the perfect summer outing for classical music lovers and film buffs alike.

Ariel Horowitz, violin
SooBeen Lee, violin
Jordan Bak, viola
Jonathan Swensen, cello
Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner, piano

Program:

WILLIAMS Three Pieces from Schindler’s List
WILLIAMS E.T. Main Theme
WILLIAMS “Raider’s March” from Indiana Jones
BADELT Pirates of the Caribbean Medley
ZIMMER The Lion King Medley
SHORE Three Pieces from Lord of the Rings
WILLIAMS “Hedwig’s Theme” from Harry Potter
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

7:30 PM: Two Pianos are Better than One - Castle Hill Inn

Newport Classical returns to the picturesque Castle Hill Inn for a mesmerizing and thoughtfully curated program of works for two pianos featuring the dynamic talents of American pianist Drew Petersen and beloved returning Festival Artist Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner. Be transported to a realm of musical enchantment as these two young virtuosos ignite the keys with passion and precision, where the gentle ocean breeze harmonizes with the melodies, creating an atmosphere of pure magic and musical bliss.

Drew Petersen, piano
Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner, piano

Program:

MOZART Sonata for piano, 4 hands in B-flat Major, K. 358
BEACH Summer Dreams, Op. 47
WAGNER Overture to Tannhäuser
(arr. Max Reger)
RACHMANINOFF Suite No. 1, Op. 5 for two pianos
CHAMINADE Pas des Cymbales, Op. 36, No. 2
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 17, 2024:

11:00 AM: Lincoln Trio - The Elms

Indulge in an extraordinary morning with the renowned Lincoln Trio as they mark the culmination of their illustrious twentieth anniversary. Revered for their pioneering spirit and innovative contemporary repertoire, the Trio promises an unforgettable performance with the iconic Brahms C Major Piano Trio that catapulted them to acclaim alongside a curated selection of works by trailblazing female composers, including the visionary Stacy Garrop, whose groundbreaking composition left a lasting impression as the inaugural Composer-in-Residence for Newport Classical in 2021. Experience a captivating fusion of tradition and innovation as the Lincoln Trio celebrates two decades of musical excellence.

Marta Aznavoorian, piano
Desirée Ruhstrat, violin
David Cunliffe, cello

Program:

STACY GARROP Silver Dagger
CLARKE Trio for Violin, Cello and Piano
JENNIFER HIGDON Fiery Red
STACY GARROP Repair the World (Tikkun Olam)
BRAHMS Piano Trio No. 2 in C Major, Op. 87
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

10:15 AM - Arrive early for a Pre-Concert Conversation with Composer Stacy Garrop, Newport Classical’s inaugural Composer-in-Residence, whose works will be performed on this program. This is a free engagement opportunity for all those who have tickets to the performance.

8:00 PM: Isidore String Quartet - The Breakers

This red-hot young quartet was founded in 2019 at the Juilliard School and launched their current trajectory by winning one of the most prestigious awards in chamber music at the 2022 Banff Competition. Their artistry and limitless potential were further recognized when they were awarded a 2023 Avery Fisher Career Grant. Hailed for their “blazing virtuosity” by Violinist.com, the Isidore Quartet aims to revisit, rediscover, and reinvigorate the string quartet repertoire by creating enjoyable, approachable, and intimate concert experiences.

Adrian Steele, violin
Phoenix Avalon, violin
Devin Moore, viola
Joshua McClendon, cello

Program:

HAYDN String Quartet in C Major, Op. 20, No. 2
BILLY CHILDS String Quartet No. 2, Awakening
MENDELSSOHN String Quartet No. 5 in E-flat Major, Op. 44, No. 3
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 18, 2024:

8:00 PM: Daniel del Pino, Marian Herrero, and Friends - The Breakers

Embark on a musical journey led by acclaimed Spanish concert pianist and beloved past Festival artist Daniel del Pino, accompanied by the talented violist Marian Herrero, as they unveil a treasure trove of rarely performed masterpieces by Spanish composers. Experience the richness and diversity of Spanish musical heritage in an unforgettable evening curated by these esteemed artists. The culmination of the concert brings together the 2024 Festival Artists in a joyous collaboration for a celebratory performance of Joaquín Turina’s masterpiece, promising an enchanting fusion of talent and tradition.

Daniel del Pino, piano
Marian Herrero, viola
Ariel Horowitz, violin
SooBeen Lee, violin
Jordan Bak, viola
Jonathan Swensen, cello

Program:

BACH Sonata for viola and piano in G minor, BWV 1029
BOWEN Sonata No. 1 in C minor, Op. 18
DE FALLA Siete Canciones Populares Españolas
DEL CAMPO Romanza
TURINA Escena Andaluza for viola, piano and string quartet
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 19, 2024:

5:15 AM: Melodic Introspections at Sunrise - Chinese Tea House

Experience the stunning sunrise over Newport’s iconic Cliff Walk during this inspiring and introspective concert as the festival artists take you from Beethoven through inspiring works by some of today’s most interesting composers. These works, vibrant and warm in nature and written in different string configurations, together make for a meditative and uplifting way to begin your day.

Complimentary pastries are provided courtesy of The French Confection.

Ariel Horowitz, violin
SooBeen Lee, violin
Jordan Bak, viola
Jonathan Swensen, cello

Program:

LEI LIANG Feng for solo viola
DOBRINKA TABAKOVA Insight for string trio
WEI-CHIEH LIN Five Taiwanese Folk Songs
BEETHOVEN Cavatina from String Quartet in B-flat Major, Op. 130
PRICE Five Folksongs in Counterpoint for String Quartet
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

8:00 PM: Handel and Haydn Society - The Breakers

Acclaimed for its playing of chamber music through the centuries, Handel and Haydn Society embraces historically informed performances, bringing classical music to life with the same immediacy it had the day it was composed. Don’t miss this joyful series of concerti and works for chamber orchestra from the Baroque period featuring acclaimed soprano Joélle Harvey and featured soloists from the Handel and Haydn Society violinist Aisslinn Nosky, oboist Debra Nagy, and organist Ian Watson.

Handel and Haydn Society
Jonathan Cohen, Artistic Director
Aisslinn Nosky, Director
Joélle Harvey, soprano

VIOLIN
Aisslinn Nosky, concertmaster*
Abigail Karr
Julie Leven
Maureen Murchie
Jane Starkman
Guiomar Turgeon

VIOLA
Jenny Stirling, principal
Jason Fisher

CELLO
Guy Fishman, principal
Thomas Barth

BASS
Heather Miller Lardin, principal

OBOE
Debra Nagy, principal*

HARPSICHORD/ORGAN
Ian Watson, principal*

*Featured soloist

Program:

CORELLI Concerto grosso in D Major, Op. 6, No. 1
HANDEL Pianger? la sorte mia from Guilio Cesare
HANDEL Endless Pleasure from Semele
HANDEL Organ Concerto in F Major, HWV 295
BACH Concerto for Violin and Oboe in C minor, BWV 1060R
HANDEL Silete venti, HWV 242
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

July 20, 2024:

11:00 AM: Composer Talk with Clarice Assad - Newport Classical Recital Hall

A bold composer, a brilliant pianist, and an inventive vocalist, join Clarice Assad for a conversation regarding her background and composition process, particularly as it relates to the creation of her newly commissioned piece that will be premiered later in the evening by PubliQuartet and mezzo-soprano Renée Rapier at The Breakers. The newest chapter in Chronicles of Ghosts, “Whispers from the Pirate Queen” explores the timeless bond between two remarkable women: Grace O’Malley, the legendary 16th-century Irish pirate queen, and Anne Hutchinson, the influential Puritan spiritual leader and pioneer of the 17th century.

Register for this free event

3:00 PM: Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner Live - Emmanuel Church

Join returning Festival Artist Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner for an invigorating afternoon piano recital at historic Emmanuel Church, known for its breathtaking English Gothic Revival architecture that enhances the acoustic ambiance. “A gifted virtuoso,” (San Francisco Chronicle) Sánchez-Werner quickly became a beloved pillar of the Newport Classical Music Festival, bringing technical prowess and passion to every electrifying chamber performance. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear him in a recital that showcases his tremendous talents as a soloist.

Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner, piano

Program:

CHOPIN Scherzo No. 3 in C-sharp minor, Op. 39
CHOPIN Barcarolle, Op. 60
BEETHOVEN Sonata No. 28 in A Major, Op. 101
RUBIO Jarabe Tapatío
(arr. Earl Wild)
VELÁZQUEZ Bésame Mucho
(arr. Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner)
RACHMANINOFF Sonata No. 2 in B-flat minor, Op. 36
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

8:00 PM: PUBLIQuartet performs a World Premiere - The Breakers

Experience a dynamic fusion of classical mastery and contemporary innovation with GRAMMY®-nominated PUBLIQuartet, praised by The Washington Post as “the epitome of modern chamber music”, in collaboration with sensational mezzo-soprano Renée Rapier. Be the first to hear the world premiere of GRAMMY®-nominated Clarice Assad‘s new work exploring the unbreakable spirit of women who dare to challenge societal norms and fight for their convictions. The remainder of the program explores the resonance between contemporary, blues, jazz, free, and rock-inflected music – all of which trace their roots back to the Black and Indigenous music that inspired Dvo?ák’s “American” String Quartet.  Don’t miss this electrifying concert bridging the past, present, and future of classical music!

Plus, join us earlier in the day for an exclusive composer talk with Clarice Assad. Learn more and register for this free event here.

Curtis Stewart, violin
Rubén Rengel, violin
Nick Revel, viola
Hamilton Berry, cello
Renée Rapier, mezzo-soprano
Clarice Assad, composer

Program:

JESSIE MONTGOMERY Voodoo Dolls
DVO?ÁK/PUBLIQUARTET What is American
Improvisations on String Quartet No. 12 in F Major, Op. 96, American
I. Allegro ma non troppo
FODÉ LASSANA DIABATÉ Sunjata’s Time
(arr. Jacob Garchik)
VIJAY IYER Dig the Say    
CLARICE ASSAD Chronicles of Ghosts | Chapter III: Whispers from the Pirate Queen [WORLD PREMIERE]
ELLINGTON Come Sunday for string quartet and mezzo-soprano
(arr. Hamilton Berry)
PERRY Prelude
(arr. Hamilton Berry)
PUBLIQuartet MIND | THE | GAP: Wild Women
Improvisations on:
TINA TURNER Black Coffee
BETTY DAVIS They Say I’m Different
ALICE COLTRANE Er Ra
IDA COX Wild Women Don’t Have the Blues

July 21, 2024:

11:00 AM: S? Percussion with vocalist and composer Caroline Shaw - The Colony House

Enjoy the vibrant collaboration of Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Caroline Shaw and the innovative S? Percussion in an electrifying program blending voice and percussion quartet as they share the music from their newest album Rectangles and Circumstance. Co-written by Caroline Shaw and S? Percussion, the genre-blending songs use verses from nineteenth-century poems by Christina Rosetti, Emily Brontë, Emily Dickinson, Gertrude Stein, and William Blake. Chamber music meets singer-songwriter storytelling in this extraordinary performance showcasing vital, expressive, and imaginative music-making.

Caroline Shaw, vocals
Eric Cha-Beach, percussion
Josh Quillin, percussion
Adam Sliwinski, percussion
Jason Treuting, percussion

2:00 PM: Lara Downes Family Concert - Temple Shalom Middletown

Pianist Lara Downes has been called “a musical ray of hope” by NBC News and “an explorer whose imagination is fired by bringing notice to the underrepresented and forgotten” (The Log Journal). She brings her sought-after talents to this free afternoon performance and conversation crafted for the youngest listeners and families alike!

This performance is followed by a reception with treats from the Middle East, courtesy of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island!

Lara Downes, piano

Register for this free event at Temple Shalom

8:00 PM: Closing Night with Pianist Lara Downes - The Breakers

American pianist and cultural visionary Lara Downes returns to Newport after a sold-out performance on the 2021 Festival to present THIS LAND, a concert that captures 100 years of American transformation, celebrating the spirit of innovation and imagination, resilience, and resistance, and reflecting a wide diversity of voices to illustrate the beauty that grows at the crossroads of our American journeys.

Lara Downes, piano

Program:

JOPLIN Prelude from Treemonisha
Peacherine Rag
Bethena Waltz
Maple Leaf Rag
ARTURO O’FARRILL Kaleidoscope
PRICE Piano Sonata in E minor
KIAN RAVAEI Variations on “This Land is Your Land”
ANGELICA NEGRON Sueño Recurrente
TRADITIONAL Shenandoah
STILL Summerland
SHAWN OKPEBHOLO Amazing Grace
JAKE HEGGIE Looking Back, Facing Forward
SAMORA PINDERHUGHES Transformation
BONDS Spiritual Suite
GERSHWIN I Loves You Porgy
(arr. Nina Simone)
GERSHWIN Selected Songs
*Program subject to change. Full program notes available the week before the concert.

Dates: July 4 - 21, 2024

Location:

Various Venues,
Newport, RI 02840.

Buy Tickets

Click here for more information.