The 2022-23 Impact Series in Review

Written by Elizabeth Beilman

Chamber music is an art form that brings people together in a literal and figurative way. The NCCMI Impact Series builds upon this concept with three different but complementary events, all performed at Church of the Nativity in Raleigh. The NC Arts Council provided a generous “Spark the Arts” grant to support the project that featured outstanding performers including NC Symphony, faculty musicians, and emerging young artists. The three concerts highlighted North Carolinian and Black composers, as well as an inclusive Valentine’s program with Tactile Tour of Instruments. These concerts were performed live and made available as a free streamed video one week after each performance.

IMPACT 1 was Beethoven and Beyond (10/30/22). With a combination of standard chamber works, unfairly neglected pieces and a new trio by NCCMI-commissioned composer Quenton Blache.

IMPACT 2 was Chamber Music Treasures: Music by Black Composers. Performed on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (1/16/23), this concert was a celebration of composers historically underrepresented in classical music. NCCMI teacher and trustee Dr. Timothy Holley curated the event that was performed by outstanding faculty and exceptional young artists.

IMPACT 3 was our Valentine’s Concert with Tactile Tour of Instruments (2/12/23). Our friends at Arts Access provided audio description and NCCMI also provided Braille programs. The concert, featuring classical and popular selections performed by select NCCMI ensembles and faculty, was preceded by a Tactile Tour of Instruments! Faculty members demonstrated and helped guide people in trying out the instruments, including a huge tracker action organ. Among the attending families with children who had low vision/blindness were friends from the Eye Shine Foundation; their response was consistently glowing. Many mentioned the uniqueness of this experience.

For a limited time, the videotaped 2022-23 concerts are still available for viewing on the NCCMI YouTube channel. Look for announcements about our 2023-24 Impact Series soon!