Who: Chamber Music Amici
What: Suk and Dvořák
When: Sunday, June 8 at 3:00 PM & Monday, June 9 at 7:30 PM
Where: Richard E. Wildish Community Theater, Springfield
Program: Josef Suk – Piano Quartet in A Minor, Op. 1
Antonín Dvořák – Piano Quintet No. 2 in A Major, Op. 81, B.155
Tickets: $35–$47, $5 for students and accompanying adults
Special Features: Pre-concert talk by Dr. Terry McQuilkin 45 minutes prior to each performance
More Info: chambermusicamici.org
SPRINGFIELD — Chamber Music Amici invites the community to a special tribute concert honoring the late Sharon Schuman, a beloved violinist, educator, and civic leader whose influence on Eugene’s music community is deeply felt. Originally planned as her retirement celebration, this concert now serves as a memorial and a musical reflection of her extraordinary life and contributions.
Sharon Schuman was a founding member of Chamber Music Amici and served as its first violinist for over a decade. She played a key role in shaping the ensemble’s artistic vision and mission to build community through chamber music. Known for her expressive playing, thoughtful programming, and deep connection with audiences, Sharon helped lay the foundation for Amici’s growth into one of the region’s leading chamber music organizations.
The program, titled Suk and Dvořák, takes place Sunday, June 8 at 3:00 PM and Monday, June 9 at 7:30 PM. It features two emotionally rich chamber works by Czech composers Josef Suk and Antonín Dvořák, whose musical and personal relationship mirrors the mentorship and artistic collaboration that Sharon fostered throughout her career. Suk was not only Dvořák’s student but also his son-in-law, and their creative bond is reflected in these powerful pieces.
Suk’s Piano Quartet in A minor, Op. 1 is a passionate and lyrical work that impressed Dvořák so deeply he encouraged Suk to publish it as his first opus. The program continues with Dvořák’s celebrated Piano Quintet in A major, Op. 81, a joyful and soul-stirring piece filled with folk-inspired melodies, sweeping harmonies, and heartfelt expression. The concert features:
- Sunmi Chang, violin
- Brian Hsu, piano
- Jessica Lambert, violin
- Lillie Manis, viola
- Steven Pologe, cello
This special event honors Sharon Schuman’s legacy as a performer, mentor, educator, and visionary arts leader. Her contributions to chamber music and her dedication to community continue to inspire.
