Today we’d like to introduce you to Marsha Evans.
Hi Marsha, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Way back in 1988 I, along with two colleagues, from the Rhodes College Music Department, violinist Max Huls and cellist Linda Minke, formed the Rhodes Piano Trio. We wanted an opportunity to perform our debut concert before the actual event, and a dear friend, JoRee King, suggested we play the program at the home of Memphis interior designer, William R. Eubanks. We did just that for an audience of about 60 people, and Bill served a lovely dinner following. The next year, people began asking Bill when he was going to have another house concert. We played again to an enthusiastic crowd, and that’s when I got the idea to start a chamber music series in which all concerts would be held in private homes. JoRee, Bill, John Ferguson, and harpsichordist Charlotte McLain agreed to form a board of directors, and we took off from there. With the help of my uncle, an attorney, we qualified for 501c3 status.
The first season of three different concerts was held in February of 1990, and sold out in three days. The next season of six concerts sold out in two weeks, and the third season of nine concerts sold out as well.
Since then, the Memphis Chamber Music Society has presented over 300 concerts in many of Memphis lovelies homes. We are also grateful for collaborations with art galleries, including David Lusk Gallery and the Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Every concert is a treasure. Audiences are up close and personal with the performing artists, and are considered guests, as one would expect in a city known for its Southern Hospitality. Wine is served when people arrive, at intermission, and with the lavish reception following each concert. Performers and guests have an opportunity to visit at the receptions.
Last year I stepped down as Artistic Director and handed over my duties to pianist Victor Asuncion, and Associate Director Sharon Green. I am still very involved as Board Treasurer. But Victor and Sharon are doing a marvelous job of carrying the torch for excellent chamber music in Memphis.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Well, of course there have been a few bumps in the road, but really none to complain about. We were set back by Covid, as was everyone. We had to cancel concerts when the epidemic broke out, and weren’t able to perform for audiences for about a year and a half.
Occasionally, but not often, a musician would get sick, or injured, or miss a flight. We managed somehow to land on our feet and present a great concert. Or, we would get a Memphis snowstorm, and you know what that means!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a pianist who has lived a very rich life in music. And I had a husband who supported me in all my endeavors. I began by teaching at the “old” College of Music, and later at Rhodes College. The most important thing about teaching is you learn more than you teach. I was the pianist with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra for about 25 years. I was Regional Director of the Metropolitan Opera Auditions, and that was wonderful because all those young singers taught me to sing at the piano – and to love opera. My 36 years as Artistic Director of the Memphis Chamber Music Society have given me great joy. I myself played in the series each year until about 2015. I am thankful that I get to have music in my life each and every day.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Goodness, I have been very lucky in every way.
Pricing:
- A season ticket if $150 for 3 concerts.
- A single ticket is $55.
- We never charge musicians.
- Music students are welcome to come for free!
- We sell tickets by mail, or EventBrite.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://memphischambermusic.org
