Set in the stunning Rosecliff Mansion, Newport Classical invites you to experience Handel’s legendary oratorio Messiah featuring Rhode Island’s distinguished vocal ensemble, Ensemble Altera, alongside the Professional Choristers of The Choir School of Newport County. This chamber version of the timeless classic, complete with the iconic Hallelujah Chorus, has become a cornerstone of Newport’s vibrant holiday celebrations. Whether you’re a seasoned classical music aficionado or experiencing Messiah for the first time, this event promises to be an unforgettable highlight of the season, celebrating the joy and spirit of the holidays with a bold reimagining of a beloved masterpiece.
Flutist Amir Hoshang Farsi and pianist Mika Sasaki, join forces to close the Chamber Series with brilliance and flair. Hailed as “virtuosic and birdlike” (I Care If You Listen), Farsi brings his lyrical tone and adventurous spirit to a rich and colorful program featuring works by Gabriel Fauré, Lili Boulanger, Ian Clarke, Reena Esmail, and Yuko Uebayashi.
Pianist James Zijian Wei makes his highly anticipated Newport debut following a sweeping first-prize win at the 2024 Cleveland International Piano Competition. A standout among China’s rising generation of pianists, Wei has earned international acclaim on major stages and has been recognized with top prizes at the Lang Lang Cup, the China Grand Canal Festival, and the Beijing International Chopin Competition.
After a memorable 2024 festival debut, cellist Jonathan Swensen makes his highly anticipated return to Newport. Honored with the 2022 Avery Fisher Career Grant and recently awarded joint First Prize at the 2024 Naumburg International Cello Competition, Swensen has won international acclaim.
Praised for his electrifying technique and soulful depth, saxophonist Valentin Kovalev has rapidly established himself as a shining star on the international stage.
Celebrated as a “first-class talent” (The Philadelphia Inquirer) with “superstar quality” (Jerusalem Post), Taiwanese American pianist Charlotte Hu embarks on a compelling journey through the rich and expressive world of Frédéric Chopin.
Trio Zimbalist has won over audiences and critics alike with what EfSyn (Greece) calls “precision and feverish intensity.” Praised for the “liveliness and vigor” of their playing and performances that are simply “pure enjoyment!” (Athinorama), the trio brings vibrant energy and deep musical expression to every note.
Celebrated for his “radiant sound and high-powered virtuosity” (Los Angeles Times), violinist Blake Pouliot brings his expressive and assured style to Newport Classical. Joining Pouliot, and making a welcome return to Newport Classical, is acclaimed pianist Henry Kramer, praised by The New York Times for his “astonishingly confident technique.”
Lauded as “an ensemble to watch” (Hyde Park Herald) and 2023 Grand Prize winner of the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, the Poiesis Quartet makes their Newport Classical debut and opens the 25/26 Chamber Series season. The program begins with Beethoven’s radiant Opus 59 Number 3, an energetic and expressive work that sets the tone for an evening of dynamic contrasts. Poiesis performs Kevin Lau’s String Quartet Number 7, written for the ensemble, followed by Sky Macklay’s inventive and witty Many Many Cadence.
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Cellist Joshua Roman, hailed for his, joins forces with Executive Chef Carmine Mottola for a special one-night-only bespoke curated music and culinary event at The Reef. A one-hour performance will be followed by a three-course meal, with chef and musician working together to craft a menu inspired by the repertoire.
