Join us for a captivating evening of classical music as the WCHOF Music Series celebrates the profound artistry of chamber performance. Featuring the world-renowned Arianna String Quartet, 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: French Romantic Grandeur

Experience a journey through late-Romantic intensity with:

  • Concerto for Violin, Piano, and String Quartet, Op. 21 (1891): A monumental work by Ernest Chausson filled with bombastic drama and quiet lyricism, showcasing strings and piano at their very best.

The Performers: Arianna String Quartet, Janet Sung, and Brian Woods

This exceptional evening features the acclaimed Arianna String Quartet, joined by virtuoso violinist Janet Sung. Celebrated for her “riveting” playing and exquisite tone, Ms. Sung has performed as a soloist with leading orchestras worldwide and serves as the Head of Strings at DePaul University. WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods has curated this exceptional 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. An internationally acclaimed pianist and native of Saint Louis, Woods brings both technical brilliance and a charismatic presentational style to the gallery stage. Based in Saint Louis since 2000, the Arianna String Quartet is currently celebrating 30 years of music-making and remains in demand globally.

Thematic Connection: Creative Counterpoint

Ernest Chausson’s unique “Concerto” structure—pairing a solo violin and piano against a string quartet—mirrors the complex layers of a grandmaster’s strategy. Just as a chess opening balances individual tension with collective harmony, this performance thrives on the intricate interplay between its diverse musical voices within our gallery walls.

Venue, Tickets, and Full Schedule

Experience this concert surrounded by our incredible permanent and rotating art exhibitions 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
  • Tickets: $25 General Admission, $20 WCHOF Members.
  • Note: 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.