Dear Da Camera Friend,

With the 2009/2010 Season, we mark the 200th anniversary of the births of Robert Schumann, Felix Mendelssohn and Frederic Chopin. This milestone celebration of the Romantic generation presents the ideal opportunity to explore romanticism in music through the centuries.

From highly expressive works of the baroque period to the sultry ballads of Dianne Reeves, the romantic spirit finds expression in multiple musical styles. Our downtown classical concerts feature such renowned artists as the Juilliard String Quartet, guitarist Eliot Fisk, British tenor Andrew Kennedy, world-renowned cellist Steven Isserlis, rising-star pianist Orion Weiss and others in such programs as The Romantic Spirit, Italian Romantics, The Spirit of England, The Romantic Cello and The Twilight of Romanticism. With Da Camera Jazz, in addition to the excitedly awaited return of Dianne Reeves, legendary saxophonists Charles Lloyd and Kenny Garrett head a stellar lineup that closes with the multi-talented Esperanza Spalding.

In the intimate setting of The Menil Collection, we explore the romantic spirit in music that comes both before and after the historic “romantic era.” With Modern Virtuosos, featuring the Houston premiere of a major new work inspired by the paintings of Cy Twombly, and Modern Romantics, featuring George Rochberg’s startling breakthrough in the String Quartet No. 3, we hear the modern legacy of romanticism. Legendary pianist Seymour Lipkin presents an astounding Beethoven program with the “Moonlight” and “Hammerklavier” sonatas.

From Scarlatti and Corelli on harpsichord and guitar to the dynamism of bassist Ben Allison, join us for a season of musical contrasts. With an emphasis on emotion, virtuosity, and sheer expressive power, hear the music that captures the romantic spirit.

Looking forward to playing for you and listening with you —