Ritz Chamber Players
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Our Story | PRESS & MEDIA KIT

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For journalists, presenters, and partners: approved descriptions, the facts of 25 years, the Silver Jubilee Season, logos, images, and the people to reach. Everything here is ready to use.

IN THE PRESS

“One of the most interesting and dynamic ensembles to emerge in recent years.”

The Baltimore Sun

“Extraordinary.”

Critics on RCP's debut at Weill Recital Hall, Carnegie Hall

“Vital and fresh.”

Critics on RCP's debut at Weill Recital Hall, Carnegie Hall
Carnegie Hall debut
A standing-room-only debut at Weill Recital Hall, New York
BBC World Service and WNYC
International radio debut, broadcast to more than 30 countries
NAACP Image Awards
First national television appearance, at the 37th annual awards
NPR
Guests of Performance Today and The Tavis Smiley Show

APPROVED DESCRIPTIONS

About the Ritz Chamber Players.

Copy either version as written.

Short, 50 words

Founded in Jacksonville, Florida, in 2002, the Ritz Chamber Players celebrates the African diaspora through classical music. Named for the historic Ritz Theatre in LaVilla, the ensemble brings together exceptional Black classical artists in masterworks, music by Black composers, and new commissions, and in 2026–2027 celebrates its 25th anniversary Silver Jubilee Season.

Full, 125 words

Founded in Jacksonville, Florida, in 2002 by clarinetist Terrance L. Patterson, the Ritz Chamber Players celebrates the African diaspora through classical music in ways that transcend all barriers and inspire all people. Named for the historic Ritz Theatre in LaVilla, RCP places exceptional Black classical artists and the repertoire of the African diaspora at the center of serious performance, alongside the masterworks of the chamber literature. Across 25 years, RCP has commissioned and premiered more than 20 works and reached more than 18,000 young people and 6,000 older adults through school and community programs. In 2026–2027, RCP celebrates its Silver Jubilee Season at Terry Concert Hall, Jacksonville University, and carries Free At Last? The Evolution of the American Spiritual, with Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole, on a national tour.

QUICK FACTS

25 years, at a glance.

Founded
2002, Jacksonville, Florida, by Terrance L. Patterson, Founder, Executive & Artistic Director
Named for
The historic Ritz Theatre in LaVilla
Home stage
Terry Concert Hall, Jacksonville University
New music
More than 20 works commissioned and premiered
Community reach
More than 18,000 young people and 6,000 older adults
Access
Free admission, with Pay What You Can
Organization
Ritz Chamber Music Society, Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit

THE NEWS

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF EXPANDING THE STAGE

  • Expanding Horizons Opening NightNovember 21, 2026
  • Expanding FreedomJanuary 16, 2027
  • Expanding Legacy Silver Jubilee world premiereFebruary 20, 2027
  • Expanding BridgesApril 10, 2027
  • Expanding the American Score JuneteenthJune 19, 2027

Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Terry Concert Hall. Free At Last? opens its national tour at the Rialto Center for the Arts, Atlanta, on February 19, 2027.

LOGOS & IMAGES

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The Ritz Chamber Players on stage at Terry Concert Hall A string quartet of RCP artists in performance, in black and white An RCP soprano in performance A wide view of an RCP performance

High-resolution performance photography and artist portraits, with photographer credits, are available on request.

PRESS CONTACT

Interviews, images, and access.

For interviews with Terrance L. Patterson or RCP artists, photography, review access, and filming requests, email RCP at info@ritzchamberplayers.org.