Philip Setzer is a distinguished violinist renowned for his exceptional contributions to the world of chamber music. As a member of the acclaimed Emerson String Quartet, which has garnered nine Grammy Awards, Setzer has been instrumental in delivering performances that span a diverse repertoire, from the timeless works of Bach to contemporary compositions by Harbison. His artistry will be showcased in the upcoming Manchester Music Festival, where he will perform in two significant events: the season opener titled Lighting the Torch, featuring masterpieces by Beethoven and Schubert on July 11, 2024, and the enchanting evening Passing the Torch, which celebrates the works of Schumann, Mendelssohn, and Tchaikovsky on July 18, 2024. Both performances will take place at the picturesque SVAC Arkell Pavilion in Manchester, Vermont, promising audiences an immersive experience of classical music under the stars. Setzer's commitment to musical excellence and his ability to connect with audiences make him a vital figure in the classical music landscape, ensuring that his performances continue to resonate with both seasoned enthusiasts and new listeners alike.

Violinist

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Manchester Music Festival's grand finale, "MMF Thursday Nights: The Grand Finale Dvořák, Brahms, Barber, Respighi," marking a spectacular close to our 50th Anniversary Season. This must-attend event is scheduled for Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM at the SVAC Arkell Pavilion, located at 860 Southern Vermont Arts Center Drive, Manchester, VT, 05254.

The evening promises an exquisite lineup of classical masterpieces, featuring works by Antonín Dvořák, Johannes Brahms, Ottorino Respighi, and Samuel Barber. The program includes Dvořák's "Slavonic Dances for piano 4 hands, Op. 72," Brahms' "Two Songs for Alto Voice, Viola and Piano, Op. 91," Respighi's "Il Tramonto," and Barber's "Adagio for Strings," culminating with Dvořák's "Piano Quintet No. 2 in A, Op. 81." These pieces will be brought to life by a stellar lineup of artists, including soprano Christine Goerke, pianists Gilles Vonsattel and Andrew Cannestra, violinists Philip Setzer, Sarah Crocker Vonsattel, and a host of other remarkable talents.

This event not only showcases the virtuosity of established artists but also highlights the promising talents of the MMF Young Artists & Chamber Ensemble, making it a celebration of musical mastery across generations.

Tickets are available for purchase, offering you the chance to be part of this historic celebration of music and community. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the magic of classical music in the beautiful setting of the Southern Vermont Arts Center. Join us for a night of breathtaking performances that promise to be a fitting finale to our 50th anniversary celebrations.

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MMF Thursday Nights: The Grand Finale – Dvořák, Brahms, Barber, Respighi

Southern Vermont Arts Center

Join us for a captivating evening at the Manchester Music Festival's 50th Anniversary Season, featuring "MMF Talks: The Romantic Era." This special event is scheduled for Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the SVAC Arkell Pavilion, located at 860 Southern Vermont Arts Center Drive, Manchester, VT, 05254.

Dive into the depths of the Romantic Era with MMF Artistic Director Philip Setzer, who will be joined by a panel of distinguished authors including Allen Shawn, Judith Lochhead, and Gail Newman. Together, they will explore the emotional and intellectual currents that defined Romanticism, engaging in a lively discussion that promises to raise intriguing questions and seek out enlightening answers.

This event is presented in partnership with Northshire Bookstore and GMALL, ensuring an evening filled with insightful dialogue and engaging perspectives on what it meant to be romantic and Romantic in history.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of the Romantic Era. Buy your tickets now and be part of a thought-provoking conversation that bridges the past and present.

*Please note that artists and programs are subject to change without notice.

MMF Talks “The Romantic Era”

Join us for an enchanting evening of music at the Manchester Music Festival's Thursday Nights series, featuring a captivating program that spans the rich musical landscapes of France and England, along with the premiere of some thrilling new works. This special event, titled "France, England, and Some Things New: Debussy, Elgar, Setzer, Snider," is part of our 50th Anniversary Season and promises to be a night to remember.

**Date and Time:**  
Thursday, August 1, 2024  
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

**Location:**  
SVAC Arkell Pavilion  
860 Southern Vermont Arts Center Drive  
Manchester, VT, 05254

**Program Highlights:**  
- Claude Debussy: "Danse sacrée et danse profane," including both "Danse sacrée" and "Danse profane," arranged by Philip Setzer and Nancy Allen.  
- Philip Setzer: "Elegy" for violin and harp.  
- Sarah Kirkland Snider: "Drink the Wild Ayre," a world premiere of a new version for harp and ensemble.  
- Edward Elgar: Piano Quintet in A minor, Op. 84, featuring movements "Moderato Allegro," "Adagio," and "Andante Allegro."

**Featuring Artists:**  
- Nancy Allen, harp  
- Philip Setzer, violin  
- Chris Baechtel, bass  
- Brian Anderson, viola  
- Andrew Cannestra, piano  
- Alongside a selection of talented MMF Young Artists and more.

This event is a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and depth of classical music, performed by an exceptional ensemble of artists. Whether you're a lifelong classical music fan or new to the genre, this evening promises to be a deeply moving and memorable experience.

**Tickets:**  
Available for purchase online. Don't miss your chance to be part of this remarkable musical journey.

Join us at the SVAC Arkell Pavilion for a night where music transcends time and borders, celebrating the legacy and future of classical music.

MMF Thursday Nights: France, England, and SoMMF Thursday Nights: France, England, and Some Things New – Debussy, Elgar, Setzer, Sniderme Things New

Join us for a remarkable evening of music and conversation at the "GIVEN A CHANCE: Concert and Discussion" event, part of the Manchester Music Festival's 50th Anniversary Season. This special program is scheduled for Sunday, July 28, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the SVAC Arkell Pavilion, located at 860 Southern Vermont Arts Center Drive, Manchester, VT, 05254.

The evening will feature the Artistic Director Philip Setzer alongside MMF Young Artists, performing an exquisite selection of Romantic works by underrepresented composers. These composers have historically struggled to have their voices heard, making this event not only a concert but a powerful statement on the importance of diversity and representation in classical music.

The concert will include pieces such as Clara Wieck Schumann's "3 Romances, Op. 22," Rebecca Clarke's "Lullaby," from 2 Pieces for Viola or Violin and Cello, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor's "4 African Dances, Op. 58," Florence Price's "Piano Quintet No. 2 in A minor," and George Walker's "Lyric for Strings."

Following the performance, there will be a discussion led by music scholar Judith Lochhead and composer Menon Dwarka, offering insights into the works performed and the stories of the composers. This dialogue aims to deepen the audience's understanding and appreciation of the music and its historical context.

The event is presented in partnership with Green Mountain Academy for Lifelong Learning, ensuring an enriching experience for all attendees. A reception will follow the discussion, providing an opportunity for attendees to mingle and reflect on the evening's offerings.

Artists performing include Philip Setzer on violin, Brian Anderson on viola, Andrew Cannestra on piano, among other talented musicians and MMF Young Artists, making this a showcase of both established and emerging talents in the classical music scene.

Don't miss this unique blend of performance and discussion, set against the backdrop of the scenic Southern Vermont Arts Center. Buy your tickets now for an evening of meaningful music and conversation.

GIVEN A CHANCE: Concert and Discussion

Join us for an enchanting evening of classical music at the Manchester Music Festival's Thursday Nights series, featuring "Brahms and Lyricism: Brahms, The Schumanns, and Strauss." This special event is set to take place on Thursday, July 25, 2024, from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM at the SVAC Arkell Pavilion, located at 860 Southern Vermont Arts Center Drive, Manchester, VT, 05254.

The program promises a lyrical journey through the works of Johannes Brahms, Robert Schumann, Clara Wieck Schumann, and Richard Strauss, showcasing a rich tapestry of romantic compositions. Highlights include Brahms' "16 Waltzes for piano four hands, Op. 39," Schumann's "Two Songs Mondnacht Der Spielmann," Clara Wieck Schumann's "Two Songs Liebst du um Schönheit Lorelei," Brahms' "Two Songs Sapphische-ode Von ewiger Liebe," and Strauss' "Two Songs Zueignung Morgen" with viola. The evening will culminate with Brahms' Clarinet Quintet in B minor, Op. 115, a masterpiece of the chamber music repertoire.

Featuring an impressive lineup of artists, including David Shifrin on clarinet, Sara Couden as contralto, Jenny Lin on piano, Philip Setzer and Hannah Corbett on violin, Lawrence Dutton on viola, Colin Carr on cello, and Andrew Cannestra and Hang Zhong on piano, this event is a must-attend for classical music enthusiasts.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the lyrical beauty of Brahms and the Schumanns, brought to life by a talented ensemble of musicians. Buy your tickets now and immerse yourself in an evening of exquisite music at the Manchester Music Festival.

MMF Thursday Nights: Brahms and Lyricism – Brahms, The Schumanns and Strauss

Join us for an enchanting evening at the Manchester Music Festival's Thursday Nights series, titled "Passing the Torch: Schumann, Mendelssohn, Tchaikovsky." This special event is set to take place on Thursday, July 18, 2024, from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM at the SVAC Arkell Pavilion, located at 860 Southern Vermont Arts Center Drive, Manchester, VT, 05254.

The program for the evening is a tribute to the timeless works of Robert Schumann, Felix Mendelssohn, and Pyotr Ilych Tchaikovsky, featuring performances by both esteemed festival artists and talented young artists from the MMF Young Artists Program. The lineup includes Jeewon Park on piano, Philip Setzer on violin, Edward Arron on cello, Brian Anderson on viola, Antonia Fuglsang on violin, Julia Pałęcka on viola, and Dylan Kinneavy on cello.

The evening's repertoire will include Schumann's Fantasy Pieces, Op. 73, Mendelssohn's Piano Trio No. 2 in C minor, Op. 66, and Tchaikovsky's Souvenir de Florence, Op. 60, promising a journey through the romantic expressions and dynamic compositions of these legendary composers.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of classical music under the stars at the beautiful Southern Vermont Arts Center. Tickets are available now. Join us as we celebrate the legacy of these great composers, passing the torch of musical excellence to the next generation.

MMF Thursday Nights: Passing the Torch – Schumann, Mendelssohn, Tchaikovsky

Join us for an exclusive evening at the Manchester Music Festival's 50th Anniversary Season, featuring the "Music & Mixer: MMF50 Presentation and Young Artists Solos I." This special event is scheduled for Saturday, July 13, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM at the Manchester Community Library. 

Dive into an intimate session with MMF's Artistic Director, Philip Setzer, a renowned violinist and member of the 9-time-Grammy winning Emerson String Quartet. Philip Setzer will introduce the festival's 50th-anniversary programming alongside the Young Artists Class of 2024, showcasing a selection of solo works. The evening promises an enriching experience with performances by talented young artists including Brian Anderson (viola), Bree Fotheringham (violin), Dylan Kinneavy (cello), Johannes Rosenberg (violin), and Hang Zhong (piano).

The event will also feature a special guest, Shawn Harrington, the Curator of the Manchester Historical Society, adding a unique historical perspective to the evening. Following the presentation and performances, attendees are invited to a reception, offering a chance to mingle and discuss the night's performances and insights.

This event is presented in partnership with the Manchester Community Library, symbolizing a collaboration that bridges music, history, and community. Don't miss this opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the classical music world's brightest stars and the future of classical music.

Tickets are available now. Secure your spot for an evening of exceptional music and conversation, celebrating the legacy and future of the Manchester Music Festival.

Music & Mixer: MMF50 Presentation and Young Artists Solos I

Manchester Community Library

Join us for an unforgettable evening as the Manchester Music Festival kicks off its Thursday Nights Season with the spectacular opener, "Lighting the Torch - Beethoven, Schubert." This event marks the beginning of our 50th Anniversary Season, a milestone celebration of music, mastery, and memorable performances.

**Date and Time:**  
Thursday, July 11, 2024  
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

**Location:**  
SVAC Arkell Pavilion  
860 Southern Vermont Arts Center Drive  
Manchester, VT, 05254

**Program Details:**  
The evening will commence with the profound compositions of Ludwig van Beethoven, featuring his Piano Trio in B-flat, Op. 97 "Archduke," a masterpiece that encompasses a range of emotions through its four movements: Allegro moderato, Scherzo. Allegro, Andante cantabile, ma però con moto, and Allegro moderato.

Following an intermission, the night will continue to enchant with Franz Schubert's Piano Trio No. 2 in E-flat, Op. 100 D.929. This composition, known for its lyrical beauty and complex emotions, will be performed in its entirety, promising an immersive experience through its movements: Allegro, Andante con moto, Scherzando. Allegro moderato, and Allegro moderato.

**Featured Artists:**  
- Wu Han, piano  
- Philip Setzer, violin  
- David Finckel, cello

These renowned musicians will bring to life the intricate compositions of Beethoven and Schubert, ensuring an evening of exquisite music and artistic brilliance.

**Tickets:**  
Available for purchase online. Secure your spot for this season opener and be part of the Manchester Music Festival's historic 50th anniversary celebration.

**Note:**  
Artists and programs are subject to change without notice.

Don't miss this opportunity to witness the magic of classical music under the stars at the beautiful SVAC Arkell Pavilion. "Lighting the Torch - Beethoven, Schubert" promises to be a night of musical excellence, setting the tone for a season of unforgettable performances.

MMF Thursday Nights Season Opener: Lighting the Torch - Beethoven, Schubert

A memorable evening is certain when the "power couple of chamber music," Han and Finckel, team with Setzer, of Emerson renown!

Han-Setzer-Finckel Trio

Alice Pratt Brown Hall

Insiders: Philip Setzer, Richard Weiss, and Daniel Shapiro

Cleveland Institute of Music

Violinist Philip Setzer will work with Levine Chamber Music students in this exciting master class. A founding member of the Emerson String Quartet, Philip is a versatile musician with innovative vision and dedication to keep the art form of the string quartet alive and relevant.

Chamber Music Master Class with Philip Setzer

The Music Center at Strathmore

In her only appearance at The Barns this season, Artistic Advisor Wu Han is joined by husband and cellist David Finckel, Emerson String Quartet’s Philip Setzer, and masterful violist Paul Neubauer for an evening of works showcasing great friendship and musical influences.

Wu Han, David Finckel, and Friends

The Barns At Wolf Trap

Join us for a must-see performance as the Emerson String Quartet returns to the Terrace Theater for the final time—the penultimate performance before the esteemed quartet disbands.

Emerson String Quartet

Kennedy Center

The beloved Emerson Quartet returns to Aspen one final time in a meaningful stop at Harris Concert Hall—a hall they once inaugurated in 1993. Since the celebrated ensemble’s first appearance at the AMFS in 1983, the Emerson Quartet has been a fixture of the Festival. Now, enjoy a final opportunity to hear them performing a quintessential program of works by Ravel, Walker, Beethoven, and Shostakovich before they hang up their instruments for good.

Special Event: Emerson String Quartet: The Aspen Farewell Concert

Aspen Meadows Resort

Classical music has thrived for centuries and is one of the most powerful, moving, and enriching genres. But many say classical music is now facing its biggest challenges of all time. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on its place in history and in today’s world. With Philip Setzer and the hosts of Vermont Public Classical Helen Lyons and James Stewart. We’ll also hear from pre-professional musicians of MMF’s renowned Young Artists Program.

In Conversation: The End of Classical Music is Vastly Overrated

Mainstage Chamber Concert 4

The renowned Emerson String Quartet (Eugene Drucker and Philip Setzer, violins; Lawrence Dutton, viola; Paul Watkins, cello) are embarking on their worldwide farewell tour, and we are delighted that they will join us for our Season Opener Mainstage Chamber Concert. The Emerson String Quartet, called “America’s greatest quartet” by Time Magazine, will be disbanding at the completion of their tour after more than four decades of performing together, and Philip Setzer will be launching a new phase of his career as Manchester Music Festival’s Artistic Director.

Season Opener Mainstage Chamber Concert

After 12 appearances on our series since 1979, 9 GRAMMY awards, and more than 30 celebrated recordings, the legendary Emerson String Quartet returns one last time as they make the final tour of their venerated 47-year career. Their program embodies the bittersweet nature of this occasion: pairing Shostakovich’s tragic final string quartet with one of the most life-affirming works in all of music history, Mendelssohn’s treasured string octet. Joining them for an encore performance on our series of this beloved octet are the Emerson’s protégés, the Calidore String Quartet. Come be a part of this momentous celebration as we experience this symbolic passing of the baton—or bow, as it were—from one generation to the next as we close our 129th Concert Classics series, both marking a historic moment and looking to the future.

Emerson & Calidore String Quartets

Richardson Auditorium

Emerson String Quartet & Calidore String Quartet

After more than 45 years, one of the most acclaimed and venerable string quartets in the world graces us with a stop on its farewell tour. The Emerson String Quartet’s impact on the world of classical music performance cannot be overstated. With more than 30 acclaimed recordings, nine GRAMMYs® (including two for Best Classical Album), three Gramophone Awards, the Avery Fisher Prize, and Musical America’s “Ensemble of the Year” award, the Quartet has collaborated with some of today’s most esteemed composers to premiere new works, keeping the string quartet form alive and relevant. This program of masterworks will leave you breathless and not ready to say goodbye.

Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center

This is your chance to catch one of the world’s great musical ensembles on its final tour. The Emerson String Quartet has maintained its place as a universally acclaimed and unflaggingly popular quartet for more than 40 years. In addition to definitive interpretations, these four artists infuse their performances with emotional impact and personality. “With musicians like this, there must be some hope for humanity” (The Times of London).

War Memorial and Performing Arts Center

The San Diego Union-Tribune praised the trio’s “wonderful…resonant…and compelling” artistry, and the St. Paul Pioneer Press noted that this ensemble is also “almost as much fun to watch as to hear.”

Wu Han, Philip Setzer, and David Finckel

Beckman Auditorium

Since announcing their retirement after the 22-23 season the Buffalo Chamber Music Society feels very fortunate to have secured a performance on the series in their final season.

Emerson Quartet at Buffalo CMS

Kleinhans Music Hall

Hailed by the New York Times as one of the most impressive of American string quartets, the venerable Emerson String Quartet returns for another memorable performance at the Herbst Theatre. Performing and recording a range of repertoire from Bach to Harbison, this nine-time Grammy Award-winning ensemble continues to make significant and lasting contributions to the world of chamber music.

The Emerson String Quartet, formed at the Juilliard School in 1976, continues to be the defining quartet of our time, with an unrivaled history of international concerts, unprecedented repertoire projects, and standard-setting recordings that have garnered nine Grammy Awards. With a program crafted uniquely for Music@Menlo, the Emerson returns to share the time-honed skill and artistry that places the ensemble among history’s greatest. <strong>The event premieres at 5 p.m. Pacific Time on Sunday, February 14 and is available to watch online until February 21.</strong>

Philip Setzer

Violinist

Events

Past events

Aug 8, 2024

MMF Thursday Nights: The Grand Finale – Dvořák, Brahms, Barber, Respighi · Manchester Music Festival

Aug 3, 2024

MMF Talks “The Romantic Era” · Manchester Music Festival

Future and recently performed repertoire

Violin in Piano Quintet No. 2 by Dvořák

Manchester Music Festival

Violin in Piano Trio No. 2 by Schubert

Manchester Music Festival

Violin in String Quartet No. 2 by Borodin

San Francisco Performances

Violin in Piano Trio No. 2 by Mendelssohn

Manchester Music Festival

Violin in Piano Trio in B-flat major by Beethoven

Manchester Music Festival

Violin in Elegy for violin and harp by Setzer

Manchester Music Festival

Violin in Piano Quintet No. 2 by Price

Manchester Music Festival

Violin in Lullaby by Clarke

Manchester Music Festival

About

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