the Crowden Letter

Celebrating 40 Years of Unparalleled Music and Education

Our 40th anniversary showcases alumni from across the decades in a year-long celebration. Filled with sublime performances, original commissions, and a new chamber music festival, the season culminates with a Hertz Hall concert and reunion at Crowden!

Anniversary commemorations officially began at this May’s Crowden School Spring Concert, with the premiere of our first 40th anniversary commission, Capybaraology by GABRIELLA SMITH , an alumna of both The Crowden School (’05) and our John Adams Young Composers Program. Composed for string orchestra, Capybaraology “recreates all the things I enjoyed doing on my violin at that age,” shares Gabriella, “exploring new sounds and techniques, harmonics, groove, and pretty melodies passed around the ensemble… a nice reminder that music is not just about the notes and rhythms, but about having fun and looking at, listening to, and responding to each other.”

Our 40th anniversary season launches in earnest this fall. “I am so proud to announce an incredible 2023-24 season that showcases outstanding artists from Crowden’s rich history, with a look toward a brilliant future,” remarks Artistic Director Eugene Sor. “Our Sundays @ Four guest artists include internationally acclaimed alumni and faculty. Then there are the student concerts throughout the year, each representing their tremendous growth, culminating in our 40th Anniversary Concert in May with an amazing list of performers spanning Crowden’s illustrious history. I invite you to join us throughout this milestone season!”