About the Ritz Chamber Players
The Ritz Chamber Players are committed to enriching lives and communities through the transformative power of music. By amplifying the voices of Black composers and championing diversity, the Ritz Chamber Players seek to break down cultural barriers and celebrate the richness of African American talent through exceptional musical performances.
Founded in 2002 by clarinetist and Artistic Director Terrance Patterson, the Ritz Chamber Players have been redefining the classical music experience, bringing unmatched energy and elegance to stages here in Jacksonville, FL, and across the world. As an ensemble composed of the world’s foremost musicians of African descent, we offer a fresh and necessary take on classical music that reflects the diversity of our society.
A Groundbreaking Ensemble
The Ritz Chamber Players, lauded by The Baltimore Sun as "one of the most interesting and dynamic ensembles to emerge in recent years," bring together veteran artists and rising prodigies, offering captivating performances that span the classical repertoire as well as new works by African-American and other minority composers. Our members have performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including the New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, Chicago Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, and the London Symphony.
Our Mission
At Ritz Chamber Players, we transcend cultural boundaries and amplify the rich mosaic of our society through the universal language of music. Our mission is to showcase diversity by spotlighting the extraordinary artistry of African American musicians past and present. Through our dynamic concert series and impactful outreach initiatives, featuring world-renowned musicians, we aim to ignite inspiration, foster engagement, and champion education to the masses. We want to ensure that the transformative power of classical music is accessible to everyone.
Join us and play a vital role in shaping a new era of classical music. Together, we can celebrate diversity and bridge cultures through the universal language of music. Ready to make an impact? Let’s create harmony together!
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