Timeless Classics: Mozart Clarinet Quintet & “Rhapsody in Blue” at Reed College, Kaul Auditorium

World-renowned clarinetist and CMNW Artistic Director Emeritus David Shifrin leads an incredible concert of soaring clarinet favorites. The evening begins with Mozart’s dazzling Clarinet Quintet, a magical display of woodwind virtuosity in the hands of one of the world’s greatest aficionados of the instrument. Equally mesmerizing is Astor Piazzolla’s Le Grand Tango, embodying all the passion and rhythm of Argentina.

These delightful works are a prelude to one of the most iconic American clarinet and piano masterworks ever written—George Gershwin’s jazzy Rhapsody in Blue. Don’t miss Alistair Coleman’s special chamber arrangement of Gershwin’s most famous piece featuring the charismatic Cliburn finalist, Avery Fisher Career Grant and 2025 Sphinx Medal of Excellence recipient, pianist Clayton Stephenson.

We have a special tradition of picnics before concerts at Reed College’s Kaul Auditorium. Reed’s catering service, Bon Appétit, offers food and drink service beginning at 6 PM. Alternately, you can bring your own picnic, but alcoholic beverages must be purchased on site.

7 PM | Kaul Auditorium Prelude Performance with local students

Prelude performance sponsored by Ronnie-Gail Emden & Andrew Wilson.

This concert is performed in memory of Laura Meier thanks to Annie & Ernie Munch and Barbara & William Langley.

Concert sponsored by Powell’s Books.