The JCC Chamber Music Series 2025

The JCC Chamber Music Series brings world-class artists to the heart of the community, offering intimate and dynamic performances that explore the depth and diversity of chamber music through timeless masterworks and vibrant new voices.

The JCC Chamber Music Series ft. Schmaltz and Pepper
Tuesday, April 8 · 7:30 – 9:30pm EDT
This ensemble is pushing the boundaries of Yiddish music, blending classical mastery with innovative compositions and soulful arrangements.

The ensemble showcases the exceptional talents of Eric Abramovitz, Principal Clarinetist of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, alongside Drew Jurecka, a Grammy-nominated multi-instrumentalist and arranger. Also featured are the virtuosic violinist, vocalist, and composer Rebekah Wolkstein, founder and leader of the acclaimed Payadora Ensemble; Juno-nominated bassist Michael Herring; and Juno Award-winning pianist Jeremy Ledbetter. Together, this ensemble is pushing the boundaries of Yiddish music, seamlessly blending classical mastery with innovative compositions and soulful arrangements.

The band’s trajectory has been nothing short of exhilarating. Just six months after Abramovitz and Wolkstein conceived the idea of forming this group, they debuted a full show of original music and inventive arrangements. Their inaugural performance, a live-to-air broadcast with a studio audience at Zoomer Hall in Toronto for Classical 96.3FM, took place in May 2024. Since then, they have sold out performances at major events such as Ashkenaz, Toronto Summer Music Festival, ‘Put a Yid On It’ Festival of Yiddish Culture, and Jewish Music Week in Toronto.

The JCC Chamber Music Series ft. Barry Shiffman & Musicians of The RCM
Tuesday, May 13 · 7:30 – 9:30pm EDT

Join us for a captivating evening of chamber music led by celebrated violinist Barry Shiffman, a distinguished performer, educator, and artistic powerhouse whose influence has shaped the classical music world. As a co-founder of the St. Lawrence String Quartet, he has performed over 2,000 concerts worldwide, recorded exclusively for EMI Classics, and spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives at the Banff Centre and the Banff International String Quartet Competition (BISQC).

In addition to his work as a performer, Shiffman is the Artistic Director of Rockport Music, where he curates innovative programming that bridges tradition with fresh and creative expression, attracting world-class artists and audiences alike. He is also a sought-after pedagogue and chamber music coach, mentoring the next generation of musicians at The Royal Conservatory of Music’s Glenn Gould School and the Phil and Eli Taylor Performance Academy for Young Artists. His leadership on competition juries and at festivals worldwide has solidified his reputation as both a champion of emerging talent and a dynamic artistic force.

Now, Shiffman brings together an all-star ensemble from The Royal Conservatory of Music for an unforgettable program. The evening journeys through the profound spirituality of Ernest Bloch’s Nigun and Schelomo (featuring guest artist Sabina Sandvoss), the vibrant and evocative energy of Osvaldo Golijov, and the timeless brilliance of Felix Mendelssohn’s String Octet. Renowned for their virtuosity, depth, and artistic synergy, these exceptional musicians invite you into a world of rich and varied musical landscapes.

The JCC Chamber Music Series ft. The Adler Project
Thursday, June 26 · 7:30 – 9:30pm EDT
Blending film, chamber music and storytelling, this event focuses on the story of Jews who found refuge in China during WW2.

The JCC Chamber Music Series ft. Roman Rabinovich & Daniel Temnik
Thursday, September 18 · 7:30 – 9:30pm EDT

Together, Roman Rabinovich and Daniel Temnik bring their exceptional artistry to an unforgettable evening of music, pairing fresh, expressive interpretations with technical brilliance. Audiences will embark on a journey through the transcendent depth of Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 31, the vivid soundscapes of Debussy’s Estampes, and the passionate intensity of Franck’s Violin Sonata. With a shared commitment to nuance, artistry, and musical storytelling, Rabinovich and Temnik promise an evening that is both intimate and exhilarating.