Pictured: Larry Dutton
By Marilou Yacoub, Director, Concordia Conservatory
Nov. 6, 2024: As autumn leaves paint the town in vibrant hues, the Bronxville community is set to experience an extraordinary musical event.
Concordia Conservatory proudly announces the Emerson Legacy concert featuring the renowned Calidore String Quartet with special guest violist Lawrence Dutton. This much-anticipated performance will take place on Saturday, November 9, at 7:00 pm at The Reformed Church of Bronxville.
Tickets for the concert are available for purchase at www.concordiaconservatory.org or by calling 914-395-4507.
The Calidore String Quartet, hailed as one of the preeminent chamber music ensembles globally, brings a rich tapestry of musical mastery to the stage.
Pictured: Calidore String Quartet
With a repertoire that spans classical titans like Beethoven and Mendelssohn to contemporary visionaries such as Caroline Shaw and György Kurtág, the quartet has enraptured audiences across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Their performances are celebrated for their “astonishing” musicianship and profound emotional depth.
In 2024-25, they played all the Beethoven String Quartets at Lincoln Center with Chamber Music Society.
In a recent interview, violist Jeremy Berry shared insights about the quartet's journey and their connection with Lawrence Dutton, a linchpin of the now-retired Emerson String Quartet. “It's an honor to perform at the Emerson Legacy series,” Berry reflected. “We are constantly inspired by the legacy of the Emerson Quartet and the profound mentorship we've received from Larry and his colleagues.”
Dutton, who performed his final concert with the Emerson Quartet in October 2023 after 47 illustrious years, reciprocated the sentiment. “The respect and camaraderie among the members of the Calidore String Quartet remind me of our own group's dynamics. It’s about more than just musical excellence; it’s about treating each other with respect and fostering a supportive environment.”
For Concordia Conservatory, this concert is not just an artistic event but a continuation of its mission to enrich the local community through exceptional musical experiences.
Kathleen Suss, Executive Director of Concordia Conservatory, emphasized the importance of this event. “This concert marks a significant milestone as it inaugurates this new Emerson Legacy to our Hoch Chamber Music Series. We are thrilled to bring such high-caliber music to our audiences and inspire future generations of musicians.”
Reflecting on the influence of the Emerson Quartet, Berry noted the invaluable lessons learned. “The biggest thing we learned was from watching them function as a quartet. It’s a very intense personal relationship, and they exemplified respect and constructive criticism, which are crucial for long-term success.”
Dutton added, “At the end of the day, the true legacy of the Emerson Quartet lies in mentoring and passing on this great tradition. The Emerson Legacy series is a testament to that, showcasing quartets that have worked with us and are now making their mark in the world.”
The Emerson Legacy concert is more than a performance; it is a celebration of a musical heritage that continues to inspire and evolve. The concert program promises an exquisite selection of classical masterpieces.
The evening will open with Schubert’s “Quartettsatz” No. 12, followed by Mozart’s String Quintet No. 3, featuring Dutton on viola. After intermission, the audience will be treated to Ravel’s String Quartet in F Major, a piece known for its intricate beauty and vibrant energy.
Tickets for the concert are available for purchase at www.concordiaconservatory.org or by calling 914-395-4507.
Don’t miss this opportunity to witness an evening of unparalleled musical artistry and be a part of the continuing legacy of chamber music excellence. About Concordia Conservatory: Concordia Conservatory is dedicated to inspiring, instructing, and enriching lives through music, offering excellence in education and performance.
For over two decades, its Hoch Chamber Music Series has brought world-class music to Westchester and Fairfield counties, fostering a deep appreciation for the arts in audiences of all ages.