News Summary
The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra will celebrate female composers with its final Chamber Series program on April 5 and 6, 2025. Curated by Concertmaster Margaret Batjer, the concert will feature works by Clara Schumann, Fanny Mendelssohn-Hensel, and Louise Farrenc, along with a tribute to the late composer Sarah Gibson. The event aims to highlight the contributions of women in classical music. Attendees can enjoy a rich repertoire at the Wallis Annenberg Center and The Huntington’s Rothenberg Hall.
Los Angeles Set to Celebrate Women Composers at LACO’s Chamber Series
Los Angeles residents, mark your calendars! The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra (LACO) will present its final program for the Chamber Series on April 5 and 6, 2025, and it promises to be a delightful celebration of female composers. This special event, curated by Concertmaster Margaret Batjer, aims to shine a light on the incredible contributions women have made to classical music over the years.
A Heartfelt Tribute
The concert will take place on Saturday, April 5, at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills at 7:30 PM, and then move to The Huntington’s Rothenberg Hall in San Marino on Sunday, April 6, at the same time. One of the standout features of these performances is a tribute to the late Sarah Gibson, a brilliant composer whose life was cut short last July. At just 38 years young, she left behind a rich legacy, and LACO will honor her memory with a performance of her poignant piece “I do not want horses or diamonds.”
This composition, commissioned by LACO to celebrate the 200th birthday of Clara Schumann, is deeply inspired by a letter Clara wrote to her husband, Robert Schumann, emphasizing her desire for a life full of simplicity rather than material wealth. The piece draws on a single chord progression from Clara’s own work, showcasing both the complexity of emotions and the beauty of the original composition.
A Romantic Line-Up
In addition to Gibson’s moving piece, concert-goers will enjoy an array of works that highlight women composers from the Romantic era. On the agenda are:
- Clara Schumann’s “Three Romances, Op. 94” – A beautiful exploration of romance and emotion.
- Fanny Mendelssohn-Hensel’s “String Quartet in E-flat major” – This quartet is known for its tuneful melodies and intricate harmonies.
- Louise Farrenc’s “Nonet, Op. 38” – A charming piece that showcases intricate orchestrations and rich, sonorous textures.
To further enrich the evening, a performance of “Down”, a trio for flute, viola, and harp by LA native Nokuthula Ngwenyama, will also take the stage. Known for her emotionally resonant music, Ngwenyama’s work is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Highlighting Women in Music
LACO’s Chamber Series not only offers a platform for celebrated works, but it also plays an essential role in promoting the rich history of women in classical music. The programming aims to spotlight both timeless classics and contemporary pieces, highlighting the vital contributions of women composers throughout the ages.
Upcoming Events in the Industry
For theater enthusiasts, mark April 13, 2025, for “An Evening with Stacy Keach” at Theatre 40, where Keach will share insights in an intimate interview with Maxwell Caulfield. And from April 3 to April 13, treat yourself to “Julius Caesar”, staged by Row Boat Productions with an all-female cast, exploring the questions surrounding democracy and its value.
So, whether you’re a lifelong musician or new to the world of classical, the upcoming concerts and events promise an exciting glimpse into the rich tapestry of women’s contributions to music and theater. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in Los Angeles this April!
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Additional Resources
- Vulture: What’s on Broadway
- Wikipedia: Broadway
- Time Out: Broadway Shows Listings
- New York Times: Broadway Shows
- Playbill: Off-Broadway Shows
Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER
The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
