To present the finest chamber music performances to the Denver metropolitan area for the enrichment of diverse audiences; to introduce chamber music to new audiences.
Also provide education and outreach programs for children and adults in the community..
For over 70 years, Friends of Chamber Music has presented the world’s most celebrated chamber musicians on its diverse chamber music series.
Each season, FCM presents an acclaimed eight-concert series at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts, featuring world-renowned ensembles and soloists. Additional performances take place in unique venues across the metro area, offering audiences fresh and intimate ways to experience the power of live chamber music.
From Baroque masterpieces performed on period instruments to groundbreaking contemporary works and world premieres, FCM’s programming spans centuries and styles—honoring tradition while embracing innovation.
Beyond the concert stage, Friends of Chamber Music is deeply committed to education and community outreach. Through in-school music programs, FCM brings the magic of chamber music directly to students—especially those in underserved communities. The organization also presents 6–8 free community concerts each year, reaching audiences across Denver with performances in libraries, cultural centers, and other neighborhood venues.
With a mission to inspire, connect, and enrich through music, Friends of Chamber Music continues to expand access, foster inclusivity, and elevate the cultural life of Colorado—one unforgettable performance at a time.
EVENTS (2026-27 SEASON)
Isidore String Quartet and Jeremy Denk, piano
One of today’s most exciting young ensembles, the Isidore String Quartet joins forces with pianist Jeremy Denk for a powerful season-opening concert on Sunday, September 27. Winners of the 2022 Banff Competition, the Isidore Quartet brings fearless energy and fresh insight to Schumann’s radiant Piano Quintet in E-flat Major and Brahms’s passionate F Minor Quintet, with MacArthur Fellow Denk adding his signature imagination and wit.
“The group “exude[s] everything that can make a string quartet a joyful experience….” – Seen and Heard International
“The real inspiration was Jeremy Denk, who is an incredible musician, a virtuoso and a wonderful collaborator.” – NPR
Sunday, September 27, 2026 | 4:00 PM
Gates Concert Hall, Newman Center for the Performing Arts
2344 E. Iliff Avenue, Denver
Gabriela Montero, piano
Gabriela Montero’s visionary interpretations and unique compositional gifts have garnered her critical acclaim and a devoted following around the world. In her series debut, Montero presents a program inspired by the music of Spain—rich in color, rhythm, and expressive freedom, including works by Albéniz, Granados, Larrocha, and Scarlatti, with Liszt’s Spanish Rhapsody closing the program.
“Montero’s playing had everything: crackling rhythmic brio, subtle shadings, steely power…soulful lyricism…unsentimental expressivity.” – The New York Times
Presented in partnership with the Colorado State Music Teachers Association
Sunday, October 11, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Gates Concert Hall, Newman Center for the Performing Arts
2344 E. Iliff Avenue, Denver
Orpheus Chamber Ensemble and Isata Kanneh-Mason, piano
The acclaimed Orpheus Chamber Orchestra returns to our series in a much-anticipated performance, performing works by Handel, Haydn, and Mozart. Joined by award-winning British pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason in her FCM debut, this electrifying program showcases the magic that happens when world-class artists come together in true musical partnership. The program includes a world premiere by composer Katie Jenkins, co-commissioned through FCM’s Commissioning Initiative.
“Playing with perfect unanimity, [Orpheus] performances have polish and spirit, and display an infectious love for making music.” – The New York Times
“She plays with unreserved power when necessary, thundering forth full-bodied chords that combine sonorous weight and perfectly rounded edges.”
– San Francisco Chronicle
Sunday, November 15, 2026 | 4:00 PM
Gates Concert Hall, Newman Center for the Performing Arts
2344 E. Iliff Avenue, Denver
Nikolai Lugansky, piano
Described by Gramophone as “the most trailblazing and meteoric performer of all,” Nikolai Lugansky is making his long-awaited solo debut on our series. Lugansky will lend his extraordinary depth and versatility to two Beethoven Piano Sonatas, Op. 31 and Op. 109, as well as Schumann’s Fantasie in C Major.
“Lugansky’s passion radiates and his piano sings and thunders like an orchestra… ” – Bachtrack
Sunday, January 24, 2027 | 4:00 PM
Gates Concert Hall, Newman Center for the Performing Arts
2344 E. Iliff Avenue, Denver
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