Program Type: Concerts

Join the IMI Chamber Players in a return performance at the World Chess Hall of Fame, featuring music inspired by international cultures. As part of a commitment to classical compositions by underrepresented composers, the Intercultural Music Initiative will surely inspire and delight with new and exciting works for classical instruments.

The IMI Chamber Players were founded in St. Louis 30 years ago and together form a community of interculturally-minded artists and educators from around the globe. The IMI (standing for the Intercultural Music Initiative) Chamber Players love it all from standard rep by Beethoven and Mozart to new compositions and with sharing their passion for performing chamber music by lesser-known composers, particularly of African descent and other racial minorities.

The evening’s concert showcases the beautiful sounds of the woodwinds, specifically the flute, oboe and clarinet, performing music by St. Louis composer Fred Onovwerosuoke, British composer Malcolm Arnold, Haitian-American composer Louis Moreau Gottschalk, and French composers Darius Milhaud and Camille Saint-Saens. Come enjoy this delightfully intimate performance experience and hear directly from these top-notch artists about their creative process.

5:30 p.m. | Doors Open

6:00 p.m. | Complimentary artist talk

6:30 p.m. | Break

7:00 p.m. | Concert

Limited in person seating available.

• *20% discount for WCHOF members, students, seniors, and military personnel
• Each ticket includes one free drink
• Watch online at youtube.com/worldchesshof

Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind artistic experience with The Commission Concert, a musical exhibition celebrating the latest gallery showcase. Led by Musical Director and Creative in Residence, Brian Owens, this unique performance brings together music and visual art in a powerful, collaborative experience.

With special guests and an eclectic mix of soul, jazz, and contemporary sounds, The Commission Concert reflects the themes and emotions of the exhibit, offering a rich tapestry of sound inspired by the art. Join Brian Owens and an ensemble of talented musicians for an unforgettable evening where music and art converge to tell a deeper, resonant story.

5:30 p.m. | Doors Open

6:00 p.m. | Complimentary artist talk

6:30 p.m. | Break

7:00 p.m. | Concert

Limited in person seating available.

• *20% discount for WCHOF members, students, seniors, and military personnel
• Each ticket includes one free drink
• Watch online at youtube.com/worldchesshof

Escape the summer heat and celebrate the 150th Birthday of one of France’s finest composers! Music Director Brian Woods is joined by St. Louis Symphony (SLSO) musicians Hannah Ji and Bjorn Ranheim for Maurice Ravel’s monumental Piano Trio in A Minor, a masterpiece of 20th-century chamber music. Filled with virtuosic displays and colorful effects, this trio performance will inspire and entertain.

Concert pianist and WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods is proud to collaborate with musicians from the St. Louis Symphony. SLSO Concertmaster Hannah Ji is an in-demand soloist and chamber musician who regularly performs with music festivals and orchestras around the United States. SLSO cellist Bjorn Ranheim is highly regarded as one of St. Louis’ most in-demand musicians, regularly performing recitals, educational programs, and chamber music performances.

5:30 p.m. | Doors Open

6:00 p.m. | Complimentary artist talk

6:30 p.m. | Break

7:00 p.m. | Concert

Limited in person seating available.

• *20% discount for WCHOF members, students, seniors, and military personnel
• Each ticket includes one free drink
• Watch online at youtube.com/worldchesshof

Join the incomparable Denise Thimes for Summer Serenade, an enchanting evening of jazz, soul, and timeless classics under the stars. Known for her rich, velvety voice and captivating stage presence, Thimes will deliver a performance filled with warmth, elegance, and musical brilliance.

With a setlist that spans jazz standards, soulful ballads, and breezy summer favorites, Thimes will take you on a musical journey perfect for a summer night. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to her extraordinary talent, Summer Serenade promises an unforgettable experience of world-class vocals and intimate, soulful melodies that will make your summer evening truly magical.

5:30 p.m. | Doors Open

6:00 p.m. | Complimentary artist talk

6:30 p.m. | Break

7:00 p.m. | Concert

Limited in person seating available.

• *20% discount for WCHOF members, students, seniors, and military personnel
• Each ticket includes one free drink
• Watch online at youtube.com/worldchesshof

The World Chess Hall of Fame is proud to partner with Missouri Chamber Music (MOCM) for “Naturally,” featuring a wonderfully varied music program from Turina, Saariaho, and more. Join MOCM Artistic Director Nina Ferrigno and friends for this exciting evening of music celebrating the spirit of places.  

Missouri Chamber Music’s nationally recognized artists perform a series of chamber music concerts as part of the annual festival each June. Diverse programming, including new and commissioned works, is a defining attribute of the festival, helping to illuminate the exciting, extraordinary, and diverse nuance of the small ensemble genre. Visit mochambermusic.org to learn more.

5:30 p.m. | Doors Open

6:00 p.m. | Complimentary artist talk

6:30 p.m. | Break

7:00 p.m. | Concert

Limited in person seating available.

• *20% discount for WCHOF members, students, seniors, and military personnel
• Each ticket includes one free drink
• Watch online at youtube.com/worldchesshof

Experience the captivating artistry of Aida Ade (EYE-DUH AH-DAY) as she makes her highly anticipated debut in the WCHOF Contemporary Music Series. With influences ranging from Gary Clark Jr. and Chaka Khan to The Stylistics, Big K.R.I.T., Lil Boosie, Fleetwood Mac, and Chronixx, Aida’s music reflects her eclectic interests and rich life experiences. In this special performance, she will take the audience on a musical journey through various genres, showcasing her dynamic vocal range and emotional depth.

Celebrate the completion of Beethoven’s 255th Birthday celebration with two of the composer’s masterpieces! The World Chess Hall of Fame welcomes pianist Richard Jeric for the famous “Waldstein” Piano Sonata, followed by the virtuosic “Kreutzer” Violin Sonata performed by St. Louis Symphony Assistant Concertmaster Hannah Ji and Music Director Brian Woods. Don’t miss the epic conclusion to Beethoven’s complete Violin Sonatas!

World Chess Hall of Fame Music Director Brian Woods is proud to welcome award-winning pianist, pedagogue, and collaborator Dr. Richard Jeric for a special performance of one of Beethoven’s most captivating piano sonatas. Hannah Ji is an in-demand soloist and chamber musician who regularly performs with music festivals and orchestras around the United States.

Join us for a special preview of Opera Theatre of St. Louis’ 2025 50th Anniversary Festival Season and hear the “greatest hits” from the company’s upcoming productions of Die Fledermaus, Don Pasquale, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and This House. From classic to contemporary, you’ll leave humming some of opera’s most beloved tunes and eager for OTSL’s spring season in May! The program will feature OTSL’s outstanding Gerdine Young Artists, who are among the most talented singers in the country. More than 1,000 artists apply for the program each year and just 30 are selected in a nationwide audition tour. Hear these stars on the rise in Saint Louis before their careers take them to leading opera houses across the country!

Step into an intimate evening of music and storytelling with Soul in My Country, featuring four remarkable artists: Brian Owens, Rissi Palmer, Michael B. Whit, and Neil Salsich. In this old-fashioned writers’ round, these accomplished performers share the stage, trading songs and stories in a way you’ve never experienced before. With a unique blend of soul, country, and roots music, this collaborative performance weaves together each artist’s personal journeys, inspirations, and shared connections. From heartfelt ballads to foot-tapping grooves, Soul in My Country celebrates the rich intersection of musical traditions while offering a rare glimpse into the artistry behind the songs. Get ready for an evening filled with soulful harmonies, compelling stories, and magic that only happens when artists genuinely connect.

The WCHOF Music Series continues its complete journey through Beethoven’s Violin Sonatas with three of the composer’s brightest: No. 8 in G Major, No. 3 in E-flat Major, and No. 5 in F Major (“Spring”). Music Director Brian Woods is joined by guest performers from the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra’s second violin section, including Nathan Lowry, Andrea Jarrett, and Shawn Weil, for an evening of beautiful, energetic music. World Chess Hall of Fame Music Director Brian Woods is thrilled to collaborate with the second violin section of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) for these three Violin Sonatas. Nathan Lowry has quickly established himself as an in-demand performer in St. Louis since his appointment to the SLSO in 2023. Andrea Jarrett has traveled the world as a soloist and collaborator and has performed with the SLSO since 2015. Shawn Weil is a renowned performer and educator, spending his summers at the Sun Valley Music Festival and on faculty at the Eastern Music Festival. He has played with the SLSO since 2005.