Join us for a lyrical evening of chamber repertoire as the WCHOF Music Series celebrates the fiery works of Felix Mendelssohn. Featuring performers from the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, this event is an essential cultural highlight on the Saint Louis summer concerts calendar. The performance takes place at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries, a unique Saint Louis museum and art gallery that offers an unforgettable atmosphere where strategic games meet sonic masterpieces.

The Program: Fiery and Lyrical Romanticism

Experience a journey through German Romanticism with:

  • Cello Sonata No. 2, Op. 58 (1843): A joyous display of virtuosic spirit and melodic grace.
  • Piano Trio No. 1, Op. 49: Dramatic Intensity: A cornerstone of the genre featuring profound emotional weight.

The Performers: St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

This exceptional evening features violinist Andrea Jarrett and cellist Bjorn Ranheim, both elite string players from the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods has curated this unique program, selecting pieces that reflect the mission of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries to celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and high strategy. The ensemble will bring technical brilliance and expressive depth to these cornerstone compositions. The guest artists represent the finest talent in the Saint Louis area, trained at the country’s premier conservatories and performing across the globe as soloists, collaborators, and educators.

Thematic Connection: Strategy in Composition

Felix Mendelssohn often balanced rigid structure with soaring emotion, much like a grandmaster executing a complex tactical sequence. Just as a brilliant player finds beauty within formal rules, these works showcase how creative spirit thrives inside mathematical boundaries.

Venue, Tickets, and Full Schedule

Experience this concert surrounded by our incredible permanent and rotating art exhibitions, art exhibits, and history exhibits.

Full Evening Schedule:

  • 5:30 PM: Doors Open (Cash bar available)
  • 6:00 PM: Artist Talk with WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods
  • 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert Performance

Details:

  • Venue: World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries
  • Admission: $25 General, $20 WCHOF Members
  • Each ticket includes one complimentary drink ticket.
  • Seating is extremely limited for this intimate performance held inside our gallery, offering a rare, up-close listening experience.

Can’t make it to the concert? Be sure to watch the livestream on the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ YouTube channel.