From the time of Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) through the “Harpsichord-basis” period of the eighteenth century, chamber music (Ger. Kammermusik) has evolved to compositions for small combinations of various instruments performed in the home.

As defined by music critic Arthur Jacobs, “chamber music is music intended for a room, as distinct from a large hall, having only a few performers, and treating all of these as soloists on equal terms.”

Chamber music is thriving at the Cedars. Its popularity is not surprising. Great classical music performed in intimate surroundings has enormous appeal. When performed by the most accomplished musicians on the finest instruments, music of this nature has a unique capacity to provide audience relief from the ordinary and excite the senses.

There is a strong interest in the arts in the active minds of Cedars Members, especially the best classical music. To provide cultural programs at the highest standard expected of the Cedars, a classical chamber music series has been successfully organized. Based on the historical intent of chamber music as performances by soloists or small groups playing for small gatherings in a private home, the Cedars classical chamber music series has recently completed its sixth recital in the apartment of Paul and Skip Green. Six Cedars Members have taken the initiative to plan and make these combined performances available at no cost to more than 300 guests.

Taking advantage of Paul Green’s extraordinary Steinway 9’ concert grand piano, Cedars members have had the pleasure of hearing the recitals of pianists Frederick Moyer, Thomas Hardison, Mayron Tsong, Gregory McCallum, cellist Nancy Green, the piano and violin of Sandra and Greg Maytan, and the renowned Mendelssohn Trio. In addition to the United States, countries represented by the artists include England, China, Germany, Russia, Sweden, and Taiwan.

In his book, The Oxford Companion to Music, Percy A. Scholes wrote: “There is an intimacy about the best chamber music that comes from the impression of a conversation amongst its participants.” Chamber music in the Green’s home at the Cedars offers face to face interaction with the musicians during and after each recital. Typically, the musicians enjoy remaining after their performance to meet and talk with members of the audience. It is an exchange of mutual respect and quite wonderful to observe.