Summer Music in the Garden Brings Chamber Magic to Life
Published on July 12, 2025
By Bridget Richard for M.U.S.i.C. – Stars in the Classics
On July 11th, 2025, the garden of Jodi Kanter and Steve Szilagyi was transformed into a stage for world-class musical talent, intimate connection, and a joyful celebration of the chamber arts. Hosted by M.U.S.i.C. (Musical Upcoming Stars in the Classics), the “Summer Music in the Garden” program invited listeners to experience a stunning blend of classical masterworks and jazzy improvisation—all under the open sky.
A Program of Depth and Delight
The evening featured an inspired lineup, weaving together eras, genres, and cultures:
- Franz Schubert – Piano Quintet in A major, D. 667 “Trout” (IV. Andantino – Theme and Variations)
Maria Beyens, violin; Jackson Kehrli, viola; Daniel Dorsey, cello; Steven Brija, bass; Matias Cuevas, piano - Jean-Philippe Rameau – La Poule
Matias Cuevas, piano - F. Couperin (arr. Gauwin) / Amy Beach – Les Barricades Mystérieuses & I. Allegro from Piano Trio
Zachary Brandon, violin; Brendon Phelps, cello; Alexandre Marr, piano - G. Donizetti – “Quanto è bella” from L’elisir d’amore
K. Weill – “Speak Low” from One Touch of Venus
Jingdian Zhou, tenor; Yiran Sun, piano - Lukas Foss – Capriccio for Cello and Piano
Daniel Dorsey, cello; Matias Cuevas, piano - George Gershwin (arr. Heifetz) – Three Preludes
Zachary Brandon, violin; Alexandre Marr, piano - G. Gershwin / Heifetz – “It Ain’t Necessarily So” from Porgy and Bess
F. Andre & W. Schwandt – Dream a Little Dream of Me
Zachary Brandon, violin; Alexandre Marr, piano - Carlos Guastavino – La rosa y el sauce
Rodgers & Hammerstein – Some Enchanted Evening from South Pacific
Katie Moss – The Floral Dance
Stephen Stavnicky, baritone; Matias Cuevas, piano
Jazz Meets Chamber: The Bolling Suites
The second half of the evening introduced the rhythmic flair of Claude Bolling, blending classical instruments with jazz trio stylings.
- Suite for Flute and Jazz Piano Trio – II. Sentimental
Zoe Stier, flute; Matias Cuevas, piano; Steven Brija, bass; Dylan Moffitt, percussion - Suite for Cello and Jazz Piano Trio – I. Baroque in Rhythm
Brendon Phelps, cello; Alexandre Marr, piano; Steven Brija, bass; Dylan Moffitt, percussion
A Mission That Resonates
M.U.S.i.C. continues its mission of bringing world-class performance opportunities to emerging musicians while deepening Northeast Ohio’s role as a hub of musical excellence. This summer event exemplifies how we pair rising talent with intimate, audience-connected performance spaces.
As our program notes remind us, chamber music is not just about hearing—it’s about feeling the music in close community. Whether in a garden or a grand hall, this music reaches into the soul.
Gratitude to Our Community
We extend special thanks to:
- Jeanette Brown for underwriting the program book
- Frank Buck for event photography
- Judi Naft for editing
- Volunteers: Joanne & Michael Bailis, Shirley Simmons, and Jon Theobald
- And to Jodi Kanter and Steve Szilagyi for their generous garden hospitality
Your support makes it possible for emerging artists to shine and for audiences to experience chamber music up close.
Looking Ahead: From the Classics to the Movies
Mark your calendars—our next musical gathering will take audiences on an unforgettable journey from timeless classics to beloved cinematic scores.
From the Classics to the Movies
Songs, Sonatas, String Quartets, Virtuosic Piano Works, and other musical delights
Friday, August 22nd at 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, August 24th at 5:00 p.m.
Tickets: $70 per guest (limited to 40 attendees per evening)
Location: A private garden in Pepper Pike (address provided upon reservation)
Evening Schedule:
- Arrival & Light Refreshments: Served in the garden (6:00 p.m. Friday / 5:00 p.m. Sunday)
- Outdoor Concert: Begins at 7:00 p.m. Friday / 6:00 p.m. Sunday
- Desserts: Enjoy sweet delights and mingle with our musicians under the stars to close the evening
To Learn More or Join Us:
Follow along, join the audience, or become a supporter—however you connect, you’re part of the M.U.S.i.C. family.
