Musical Masterworks’ 36th Season Explores What Makes Music ‘American’

OLD LYME, CT – As America marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Musical Masterworks will open its 36th season with a central question: What makes music sound American?

The season-opening concerts will feature pianist Jeewon Park, violist Melissa Reardon, cellist Edward Arron and violinist and Musical Masterworks Artistic Director Tessa Lark.

The concerts will be held at First Congregational Church of Old Lyme, 4 Lyme St., on Saturday, Oct. 10, at 5 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 11, at 3 p.m.

The program includes Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson’s Louisiana Blues Strut, Jessie Montgomery’s Duo for Violin and Cello, Aaron Copland’s Waltz and Celebration from Billy the Kid, Rebecca Clarke’s Viola Sonata and Antonín Dvořák’s Piano Quartet No. 2 in E-flat Major, Op. 87.

Lark in a news release described the season as an exploration of the country’s musical heritage and the international influences that helped define it.

“Season 36 begins during America’s 250th anniversary, so we’re celebrating and exploring the diverse sounds of American music,” Lark said. “My hope is to highlight how America’s uniquely rich cultural history is embodied in its wonderfully varied musical output.”

The season continues through April 2027 and will include the series’ first performance featuring the church’s historic organ, the return of internationally acclaimed artists and the annual appearance of the Irving M. Klein International Strings Competition first place winner.

Tickets are $47 for adults and $7 for students, including fees. Five-concert subscriptions are available for $175 and three-concert subscriptions for $115.

Tickets and additional information are available at musicalmasterworks.org.