Chamber music has its roots in proximity and shared listening. As the genre increasingly migrates to large halls, Irina Rostomashvili explores what happens to musical intimacy – and speaks to fellow musicians about how connection can be preserved.

Chamber music was never meant to be monumental. The term itself derives from the Italian musica da camera – camera being the word for ‘room’. In the late 16th and early 17th centuries, as instrumental genres began to emerge independently from sacred liturgical music, a body of repertoire developed for private spaces. These works were written for royal and aristocratic court chambers, salons and private homes, where listeners gathered as part of social and intellectual life. The audience was small by choice rather than by limitation, and music functioned as a means of connection within a defined community…

The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (CMS) has announced that co-artistic directors David Finckel and Wu Han will renew their contract through 2032.

The duo has led CMS since 2004, contributing to the organisation’s growth, international presence, and digital development. The pair has also supported the development of a strong network for chamber musicians, creating professional opportunities for many artists committed to the field while helping to support emerging musicians and entrepreneurs.

’CMS‘s commitment to our services for another term is a blessing but even more of a challenge,’ said Finckel and Wu Han. ’While CMS is in good health, this is not a moment to coast on its accomplishments. What CMS can do for chamber music goes far beyond presenting successful concerts.

’Our organisation is in a position of leadership, and today, we are working not only for our musicians and concerts but for the health and vitality of chamber music everywhere. There is much to be done, and we are eager to move forward, inspired and guided by the unassailable greatness of our art form.’