Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra Launches Chamber Music Program

The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra is excited to announce a new addition to its performance repertoire. On the second Sunday of each month, fans of classical music are invited to The Dance Hall in Kittery, Maine where members from the group will be performing a selection of small ensemble pieces as part of their new chamber music series.

Dance Hall owner Drika Overton and Dorothy Braker, Outreach Director of the Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra have one thing in common: They love the rich fabric of the arts in the local community. The friendly atmosphere of bringing a glass of wine into a chamber music concert really appealed to both women. Thus, the ‘Get Cozy with the PSO’ Second Sunday concert series was born. The performances at The Dance Hall are more informal and interactive, creating a give and take between audience and performers with much less space between them, an atmosphere that was the everyday experience when this music was first written. Think of the modern-day jazz club, or of sitting in a pub with a guitarist singing in an acoustic band: this is how chamber music was played in homes across Europe when it was written and it’s a wonderful warm tradition.

“I’ve always loved chamber music and initially connected with David Young of the PSO about doing a series at the Hall,” said Overton. “Dorothy (Braker), jumped in and quickly put together the whole series, which currently runs through June. We also scheduled a special concert with her playing the Bach Cello Suites. That particular performance led to tears in the room; it was so extraordinary. She loves the acoustics and actually compared it to playing at Carnegie Hall! The beauty of the series is hearing exemplary music in an intimate room. Standing ovations have been served every time. I’m so happy about this series and this partnership with a shining star in the local music scene – the Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra!”

Some of the anticipated highlights in this year’s program include:

A Baroque Christmas – Sunday, December 13 at 3pm.

The PSO Youth Chamber Players – Sunday, January 10 at 3pm.

Unexpected Brass – Sunday, March 13 at 3pm.

Hebraic Rhapsody – Sunday, May 15 at 3pm.

For additional information on the entire series or to purchase tickets, please visit www.portsmouthsymphony.org, The Dance Hall Box Office, or call 207-703-2083.

Founded in 1997, The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra is comprised of over 65 local professionals, educators, dedicated amateurs, and advanced students, with the mission of contributing high quality classical music to the Seacoast community.