The Camerata New England Octet is a part of the Camerata New England full chamber ensemble and consists of what we normally think of as an octet, that is, a double string quartet of four violins, two violas and two cellos. The group will perform on Thursday, August 8, at 7:30 PM, at the First Baptist Church in New London.

The literature for string octet is limited. About fifteen well-known and less significant composers contributed at least one piece to the small, but rich collections of string octets. Of the pieces on the upcoming Camerata Octet program, the Mendelssohn is fairly familiar but is still part of a group of compositions that are not common. This is indeed a treat for us to hear some of the double string quartet fine literature. The exceptionally beautiful program for August 8 will be:

Mendelssohn: Octet in E-flat major, Op. 20

Bruch: String Octet in B-flat major

Astor Piazzolla: Libertango and Four for Tango

The Octet will feature Jae Young Lee, Alice Hallstrom, Joshua Pecins, and Joshua Pollock on violin; on viola, Frank Shaw and Mark Berger; and on cello, Linda Galvan and Leo Uguchi.

Camerata New England is a highly esteemed professional chamber ensemble drawing musicians from New England, Boston, Montreal, and New York City. Under the artistic vision of Concertmaster Jae Young C. Lee, Camerata New England performs in various-sized chamber groups to offer communities throughout the Northeast access to high quality, professional, live musical experiences. Camerata New England’s concerts are known for their quality, power, and beauty and Camerata New England’s performers are known for their expertise, their musicality, their approachability, and their gift for bringing audiences closer to the heart of extraordinary classical music. A unique aspect of this group is that they perform without a conductor and standing up.

Camerata New England is dedicated to sharing the inspiration and joy of classical music with the urban and rural populations of northern New England and beyond. Through a wide range of repertoire and educational programs, especially in underserved areas, the group endeavors to develop new audiences for classical music and enrich the lives of people of all ages and backgrounds. The benefits of music are indisputable, immediate, and lifelong. Hearing music as it was meant to be played and performed by experienced, professional musicians is a life-enhancing experience. Camerata New England is committed to providing this important part of our culture to the people of New Hampshire, New England, and beyond. The group works with schools, community groups, and other arts organizations to provide access to classical music.

Tickets are $25/adults and $5/students and are available online at SummerMusicAssociates.com, Morgan Hill Bookstore, Tatewell Gallery, New London Chamber of Commerce, or at the door. Seating is not reserved. For more information call 526-8234.