Intimate Crescendo

World-class chamber music has found a home in Dutchess County, and Millbrook Music Salon is making sure it stays there. Founded by pianist and artistic director Shuhui (Sophia) Zhou, the organization presents leading international artists in intimate, salon-style settings, creating direct and meaningful exchange between artists and audiences through a season of curated concerts, residencies, and
educational partnerships with local schools and community organizations. The spring 2026 season is well underway and offers something for every kind of listener. On April 4, a guitar and viola duo featuring Jacob Kellermann and Luosha Fang performs “Songs from Afar” at the Cary Institute, marking the salon’s first partnership with that celebrated research institution. Later that month, April 26 brings an intimate cello sound meditation at Stonewood Farm Cook House with Canadian cellist Arlen Hlusko, accompanied by herbal tisane, coffee, and a takeaway by chef Kristen Essig. Seating is limited, and it will go quickly. In May, the energy shifts outdoors. On May 24, the Concert Truck rolls into Bennett Park for a free open-air performance featuring pianists Susan Zhang and Sophia Zhou—a rare chance to experience world-class musicianship in a relaxed community setting. The month closes with “Compass: Musical Distance” on May 29 at Lyall Community Church, performed by the Balourdet Quartet and clarinetist Graeme Steele Johnson.

Additional concerts are forthcoming. Visit millbrookmusicsalon.org for tickets and updates.