South Bay Chamber Music Society

The South Bay Chamber Music Society (SBCMS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the appreciation of chamber music in the South Bay region of Southern California. Founded in 1963 by the esteemed violinist Ruth Breytspraak, the society has a rich history of fostering musical excellence and community engagement through its classical concerts and educational initiatives. Ruth Breytspraak, a native of Chicago with a deep familial connection to music, studied violin under prominent figures such as Henri Marteau in Berlin and Franz Kneisel and Leon Sametini in the United States. Her career included performances with notable orchestras and a significant role in music education. After moving to the Los Angeles area in 1943 and then to Redondo Beach in 1950, Breytspraak established a vibrant community of students and musicians, eventually leading to the creation of the SBCMS. Her legacy continues to inspire the society's activities and is remembered fondly by those she influenced. The SBCMS has also been shaped by Sidney Stafford, a pianist and teacher who played a pivotal role in sustaining the organization's momentum. Stafford's extensive experience in performance and education, along with his dedication to the SBCMS, has contributed to its reputation as a bastion of chamber music in the region. Another founding member, Colette Nance, brought her talents as a pianist and teacher, along with a warm personality, to the society. Her involvement for over twenty-five years was instrumental in the growth and success of the SBCMS. The society's concerts have featured numerous distinguished musicians, including violinist Louis Kaufman, who performed in four of the organization's first five concerts, helping to establish a strong foundation for its future. Today, the SBCMS is guided by an active Board of Directors and is artistically directed by Robert Thies. The Thies Consort serves as the ensemble in residence, and the society continues to attract and feature the finest musicians in Southern California. The organization relies on the support of individual donors, volunteers, and sponsors such as the City of Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department, the County of Los Angeles Arts Commission, the Colburn Foundation, Boeing, and the Williams Companies, Inc. The South Bay Chamber Music Society remains committed to its mission of presenting high-quality chamber music performances and enriching the cultural landscape of Southern California. Its history, marked by the contributions of its founders and supporters, serves as a testament to the enduring power and beauty of chamber music.