Picture a jazz show. Now, imagine a party. Combine the two, and you’ve got ATX Chamber Music and Jazz’s new lineup.
The new organization is about to launch its inaugural season with a slate of internationally known musicians, premium events, and a dedication to making jazz and classical music fun.
“Our goal as a series is to create these socially exciting concert events,” said Caroline Lazar, the group’s administrative coordinator. “People usually think of classical and jazz shows as really, honestly boring … we’re trying to get rid of that stigma and get some different audiences excited about coming out to experience the best classical and jazz musicians.”
ATX Chamber Music and Jazz was founded by Anna Petrova and Geoffrey Herd, Lazar said, after a particularly successful house party concert. They decided to repeat the experience and bring a series of engaging, public, fun-loving events to Austin.
The group, now composed of Petrova, Herd, and Lazar — all musicians themselves — will kick off its season next month with back-to-back performances by Grammy Award-winning Time For Three. See the group at Stateside at the Paramount on Friday, Oct. 6 or at The Pershing on Saturday, Oct. 7.
The series also includes premium experiences, like “A Trip to Burgundy with Jean-Yves Thibaudet” on Saturday, Dec. 2, where the performance will be preceded by a special tasting of top shelf Burgundy wine.
Another priority for ATX Chamber Music and Jazz, Lazar said, is partnering with locals. The group also plans to put on concerts for community members, and has two in the works for a local school and hospital.
“We really do want to give back to this community that’s welcoming us,” Lazar said. “While we are bringing in these world class musicians, we know what a special music scene Austin already has. And we want to just add on to that.”
