Violinist Julian Rhee joins us for a thoughtful conversation about artistry, curiosity, and the enduring power of live music.

A recipient of the 2024 Avery Fisher Career Grant, Julian has emerged as one of the most exciting young musicians of his generation, earning acclaim for performances that combine technical brilliance with remarkable emotional depth. This summer, he makes his Kingston Chamber Music Festival debut on July 31st, August 1st, and August 2nd.

In this conversation, Julian reflects on the importance of balancing intention with openness in music-making and shares how discovery continues to shape his artistic journey. We discuss the relationship between tradition and innovation, the unique connection created between performers and audiences, and why live performance remains such a vital experience in today's increasingly digital world.

Julian also offers insightful perspectives on creativity, collaboration, community, and the responsibilities artists have — not only to the music itself, but to the people who come together to experience it.

The Kingston Chamber Music Festival's two-week festival will be held July 22-August 2, 2026 in Kingston, Rhode Island. More information and tickets are available here.

In the second installment of a two-part conversation, violinist Harriet Langley and cellist Audrey Chen of the Terra String Quartet reflect on the deeper purpose behind their work as an ensemble.

They discuss the importance of being fully present in each performance, allowing space for listeners to form their own personal connections to the music. Harriet and Audrey also share how they are expanding the reach of chamber music through social media, collaboration, and a commitment to making the art form more open and human. They reflect on future projects, the importance of working with living composers, and the evolving role of classical music in today’s world.

The Terra String Quartet will make their Rhode Island debut at the Kingston Chamber Music Festival this summer, performing on July 24, 25, and 26.

In this first part of a two-part conversation, host Anna Gray speaks with violinist Harriet Langley and cellist Audrey Chen of the Terra String Quartet.

They share the story of how the quartet came together, the meaning behind their name, and what it takes to build an ensemble rooted in communication, trust, and collaboration. The conversation also explores their approach to storytelling in chamber music, both on stage and in the programs they create.

Looking beyond the music itself, they reflect on what chamber music can offer in today’s world, and how it can foster connection, empathy, and shared understanding.

The Terra String Quartet will make their Rhode Island debut at the Kingston Chamber Music Festival this summer, performing July 24–26. Learn more and purchase tickets here!