Mission, Vision, History
Mission Statement
High Desert Chamber Music’s mission is to bring exceptional chamber music and musicians to Central Oregon. Through our concert series and Educational Outreach programs, we aspire to heighten a level of appreciation, awareness, and understanding of this great genre of classical music.
Vision Statement
The vision of High Desert Chamber Music is to be recognized as the leader and premier resource of chamber music opportunities in the region. The reputation of HDCM will be one that competes on a national level and attracts leading performers to Central Oregon. We envision:
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Every performance or event will be of the highest artistic quality and caliber
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Every concert-goer will have a better understanding or appreciation of classical music
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Every student interested in furthering their understanding of music will be welcomed at little to no cost
What Is Chamber Music
Chamber music is generally written for a small group of instruments, with no conductor, and only one performer to a part. At its heart lies a unique nexus between the spirit of collaboration and the expertise of the individual performer. Each musician controls an integral part of the performance and demands that they engage in close musical dialogue with the other performers. Their collective instinct, experience, knowledge, and talent guide the process of interpreting, rehearsing, and performing. Some of history’s greatest composers used chamber music as a vehicle to create their most profound and important works. Although string quartets overshadow other chamber music combinations in popularity, there are a tremendous variety of instrumental groupings. String trios and string sextets, piano trios, and piano quintets are but a few of the combinations you will get to experience through High Desert Chamber Music.
This organization uses live performance to celebrate and promote classical music. Music is the first thing you will hear when you enter the venue, and the last thing you will hear before you leave. We believe that music speaks for itself, and make every effort to instill this respect for the music in our audiences.
History
Founded in 2008 by violinist Isabelle LaForêt Senger, High Desert Chamber Music enriches the cultural life of Central Oregon through exceptional chamber music performances, educational programs, and meaningful community engagement.
Each season, HDCM presents internationally acclaimed artists in an intimate concert setting, offering audiences the opportunity to experience the artistry and connection that make chamber music unique. Our award-winning Concert Series has welcomed distinguished musicians from around the world, while our Celebrity Recitals feature celebrated soloists in unforgettable performances.
Beyond the concert stage, HDCM is committed to inspiring the next generation of musicians and music lovers. Through Educational Outreach programs, master classes, and the Spotlight Chamber Players, we provide impactful musical experiences for hundreds of students throughout Central Oregon each season.
HDCM also presents unique community events including our signature Music & Friends salon concerts, where guest artists perform in private homes, creating memorable evenings of music, conversation, and hospitality, as well as our Annual Gala, the organization's largest fundraising event supporting our artistic and educational mission.
High Desert Chamber Music is proud to be a member of Chamber Music America, the Downtown Bend Business Association, and the Bend Chamber. As Central Oregon's leading presenter of chamber music, we bring internationally acclaimed artists together with our community while fostering a lifelong appreciation for classical music through performance, education, and connection.
Our work is made possible through the generosity of individual donors, foundations, businesses, and public agencies whose support allows us to continue presenting exceptional artistic experiences and expanding access to chamber music throughout Central Oregon.