Dear Friends:

I am pleased to welcome you to the Concord Chamber Music Society's 8th Season.

In 2007-2008, join the CCMS in exploring themes of growth and renewal, while celebrating the innovative and unique.

Our season will open with the internationally acclaimed Borromeo String Quartet, 2007 recipient of the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant. They are joined by new second violinist Kristopher Tong and continue to make musical history with their "Living Archive Performance Series." In January, the Peabody Trio performs "Spirit of Chimes," a work commissioned for it by Chamber Music America. And, the highlight of the season will be a guest appearance by composer/pianist Peter Schickele. Known as the voice of the popular NPR Radio show "Schickele Mix" and for his musical alter ego, P.D.Q. Bach, he will "curate" and perform in a program including several of his own works.

Each of our subscription concerts is preceded by an engaging and informative talk by my long-time colleague, musicologist Steven Ledbetter. Steven's ability to bring the music we perform to life makes the concerts both accessible and meaningful for those who attend his lectures.

With gratitude, I would like to recognize the critical support of local corporations and organizations including our season sponsor, Middlesex Bank, Cambridge Trust Company, the Massachusetts Cultural Council, and Concord's Colonial Inn.

Also, thank you to the many contributors and volunteers who make our performances and educational outreach programs possible. Their commitment to the CCMS is an inspiration to me.

I look forward to this coming year, and sharing our music with you.

Wendy Putnam