merald city music
Seattle & olympia, Washington
Emerald City Music believes everyone has the right and capacity to experience and engage with music.
When we’re not on stage, we’re in your community, connecting with listeners of all ages. From school residencies and master classes to pre-concert conversations and participatory events like Chamber Music Karaoke, we create countless ways to experience music, make connections, and be part of the ECM community.
Emerald City Music brings accomplished musicians into classrooms across Western Washington. Featured artists including WindSync, Aeolus Quartet, and Poiesis Quartet have participated in multi-day residencies in Olympia, reaching more than 300 students annually. These residencies offer students and young musicians opportunities to learn, explore, and experience music’s impact.
Through partnerships with music schools and regional universities, Emerald City Music offers masterclasses and workshops for emerging musicians studying with accomplished professionals. Recent and upcoming collaborations include engagements with the University of Washington, Pacific Lutheran University, South Puget Sound Community College Music Department, and R.L. Ray Violin Shop in Olympia.
Featured 30 minutes before every Mainstage performance, Emerald City Music’s complimentary Pre-Concert Chats provide insight into the artists, the music, and the ideas shaping each program.
String Quartet Haven creates opportunities for high-level emerging string quartets focused on developing their craft and becoming the next generation of chamber music ensembles. Over five days in January, selected quartets convene in the Emerald City to rehearse, receive coaching from esteemed chamber musicians, learn collaboratively, and build community.
Chamber Music Karaoke invites community members to share the joy of making music together. Come perform your favorite pieces, sight-read chamber music with new friends, or simply listen—everyone is welcome, and participation is free with registration. Chamber Music Karaoke happens at least once each fall and spring in Seattle and Olympia; newsletter subscribers are the first to hear about upcoming dates and locations.
Presented before each Olympia performance, Olympia Lobby Concerts celebrate and amplify musical talent from the Olympia region while supporting local music organizations—part of Emerald City Music’s commitment to being an engaged member of Olympia’s cultural community. All lobby concerts begin one hour before the Main Stage performance and run approximately 30 minutes.
Interested in learning more about our education and community programs? Send us a message using the form below and we’ll be in touch.
