Événement

Schubertiade

Petalumas first-ever Schubertiade will celebrate the music of Franz Schubert (17971828), a titan of the Romantic Era in classical music.

Twelve participating musicians, both vocalists and instrumentalists, will fill the museum with glorious, romantic music. The centerpiece will be Schuberts beloved Trout Quintet, but many other pieces will be showcased, including some of Schuberts lovely Lieder (songs) as well as small masterpieces for the violin and piano. Local prodigy Nigel Armstrong will play the violin. Musicologist Kayleen Asbo will provide vivid background on the music and place it in its historical and cultural context.

In the Schubertiade tradition, complimentary wine and traditional Viennese savories and sweets will be offered. The event is intended to be casual, not formal, with breaks for refreshments. You can even leave the Museum building for a walk around the block, then return for more music and merriment.

So, what is a Schubertiade? Originally, it was an informal, unadvertised gathering held at a private home, sponsored by one of Schuberts wealthier friends or aficionados of his music. They served as a literary-musical salon, and often included poetry recitations, dancing, and other sociable pastimes. Gatherings were as small as a dozen or as large as over one hundred. Many of the early Schubertiades included Schubert in person, sometimes accompanying vocal soloists on the piano.

These early Scheubertiades began in Vienna, where Schubert spent most of his life, but eventually spread to other locations. Modern Schubertiades continue this tradition, presented as concerts or festivals devoted to Schubert's music, staged annually in Austria and other European countries. The largest include piano recitals, chamber concerts, orchestral concerts, lectures, and master classes by renowned artists.

Petalumas Schubertiade will take advantage of the fabulous acoustics of the Petaluma Historical Library & Museum at 20 Fourth Street in downtown Petaluma. Tickets are $30 before June 10, and $40 after. Student tickets are $10.