Sarasota Concert Association Sets 2017-18 Free 'Music Matinees' Series

Since 1938, the Sarasota Concert Association (SCA) has brought the world's finest classical musicians to Sarasota with its "Great Performers Series." In addition to the Great Performers Series, the organization offers a free "Music Matinees" series.

This long-running, community outreach program features accomplished, regional musicians who perform a vast array of musical styles, including classical, folk, jazz and pop. The series is co-coordinated by Gail Berenson and Katherine Oarr, both SCA board members, who view this outstanding series as one of the area's most popular free music programs.

"We're very pleased with the wide variety of musical talent and genres we've booked for this season," says Berenson. "This season's lineup includes classical, jazz and choral ensembles, as well as some well-known musicians breaking out of their usual mode and having some high-caliber musical fun with it. It's rewarding to support these outstanding musicians who live and work in our region and have so much to contribute to the cultural enrichment of our community." Berenson adds that all concerts except one (December 11) are on Wednesdays.

The 2017-2018 Music Matinees noontime concert season features the return of the Bridge Trio with Cheryl Tschanz, piano, Alfred Gatta, cello, and Felicia Brunelle, violin (Monday, December 11); Sarasota Orchestra principals and EnsemblenewSRQ co-founders George Nickson, percussion, and Samantha Bennett, violin (Wednesday, January 17); Sarasota Orchestra principal bassist John Miller, in swing mode with the John Miller Jazz Trio (Wednesday, February 7); the State College of Florida Chamber Choir and Presidential Vocal Ensemble conducted by Melodie Dickerson (Wednesday, March 28); and "keyboard tour de force," pianist Tom Purviance (Wednesday, April 18).

All Music Matinees performances are at free and at noon at the Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Seating is open; no reservations accepted. For more information about Music Matinees, visit www.scasarasota.org.

The Sarasota Concert Association (SCA) is a nonprofit organization that fosters greater appreciation for world-class classical music by offering the community two engaging programs from November to April. The Great Performers Series, in its 73rd season, brings world-renowned orchestras and chamber groups to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and the Riverview Performing Arts Center. The Music Matinee series features outstanding regional artists in free community concerts at Beatrice Friedman Symphony Hall and other venues.