concertnova, the innovative collective known for pushing the boundaries of classical music, is stepping into a new era with the announcement of its 18th season. This milestone year brings not only a fresh season of immersive collaboration, but also significant changes in their leadership. After 17 seasons of remarkable direction, co-founders Ixi Chen and Ted Nelson are passing the torch to Brianna Matzke, who will serve as the new executive director.
Known for her creative programming and community leadership, Matzke’s appointment signals a thrilling new chapter for the ensemble. Chen, concertnova’s longtime co-artistic director and Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO) clarinetist, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Brianna shares so much of concertnova’s artistic DNA. Her proven record of bringing fearless, inspiring, creative and innovative new programming to life here in Cincinnati and around the world makes her the perfect successor to lead concertnova into its next chapter.”
Nelson, transitioning to a board member role, echoed these sentiments: “Brianna is a true kindred spirit in her vision for how the arts can serve our communities. She understands the power of innovation in chamber music, and I look forward to working with her as a board member and performer for many years to come.”
The 18th season of concertnova is set to be one of its most ambitious yet, with a series of events that promise to offer Cincinnati audiences unique and immersive cultural experiences. The season will feature four mainstage concerts and two interactive "play-with-us" events, showcasing the ensemble’s commitment to thought-provoking musical experiences.
concertnova kicks off the season on Sept. 29 at Rhinegeist Brewing with "Music for the Soul," a collaborative event that invites participants to create new music in a guided mindfulness session led by NFL legend Soul Cole. This event is designed to blend meditation, creativity and community, setting the tone for a season of innovation and engagement.
In October, concertnova will collaborate with Columbus-based visual artist XUAN and members of the newly-added resident Poiesis Quartet for "Echo Play." This performance, presented during BLINK, will combine contemporary violin music with 360-degree visual projections, creating a mesmerizing experience at Alice in Over-the-Rhine.
March brings "Memory Box" to the Contemporary Arts Center, a concert curated by composer Sarah Hennies that will explore LGBTQ+ voices and identities through three new works. Following this, in April, concertnova will present "Meet in the Middle," a collaboration with Asa Featherstone IV that delves into Black Midwestern identity through music and photography at Somerhaus. The season will culminate with two significant events: "Ysaÿe in Cincinnati" on May 9, featuring performances by violinist Benjamin Beilman, pianist Gloria Chien and the Poiesis Quartet on Ysaÿe’s historic Guarneri “del Gesù” violin; and a final play-with-us event in June that explores Ohio's newly legalized recreational cannabis use through an immersive musical experience as well as a nature walk.
Matzke is eager to welcome audiences to this season of exploration and play. “concertnova is Cincinnati’s chamber music playground,” she says. “We love our community because they are willing to push the boundaries of what’s artistically possible. We hope to see you there — please come play with us!”
Season passes are available for $150, offering access to all events and additional perks. Single tickets will be available at the end of the month, with tickets for "Music for the Soul" already on sale. More info: concertnova.com.
