LA PLATA, Md. — The Charles County Youth Orchestra (CCYO) will present its annual Chamber Music Festival across two weekends in July, offering Southern Maryland residents and visitors free access to high-quality classical performances in a historic setting. All four concerts are scheduled for 4 p.m. at Christ Church in La Plata, with no tickets or advance registration required.
The festival provides an intimate exploration of chamber music, featuring performances by CCYO’s professional faculty alongside showcases by talented young musicians from the region. The schedule includes two faculty concerts and two student showcases.
On Saturday, July 18, the faculty quartet — featuring Takako Mato on clarinet, Teri Lazar on violin, Osman Kivrak on viola, and Andrew Kivrak on piano — will perform masterpieces by Beethoven and Bruch, plus a work composed by CCYO Director Osman Kivrak.
Sunday, July 19, spotlights four CCYO student ensembles performing works by Vivaldi, Mozart, Telemann, and Johann Wenzel Kalliwoda.
The second faculty concert on Saturday, July 25, presents a string trio with Teri Lazar (violin), Osman Kivrak (viola), and Marion Baker (cello). The program includes the world premiere of Improvisations on a Theme by Rob Vuono and Hallow by Bernie Walasavage, winner of the 2025 FMMC International Composition Contest. Additional works by Bach, Mozart, and Beethoven round out the evening.
The festival concludes on Sunday, July 26, with a grand student finale featuring seven CCYO quartets performing masterworks by Dvo?ák, Mozart, Schubert, and Haydn.
“Our Chamber Music Festival is a wonderful opportunity to experience high-caliber classical artistry right here in Southern Maryland,” said Director Osman Kivrak. “By keeping these concerts entirely free and non-ticketed, we want to welcome families, music lovers, and newcomers alike to escape the summer heat and enjoy beautiful music in a magnificent community setting.”
All performances take place indoors with air conditioning and open general admission seating. Doors open 30 minutes before each concert.
The Charles County Youth Orchestra is one of the premier youth arts organizations in Southern Maryland, dedicated to providing high-quality orchestral training and performance opportunities for young musicians. The festival highlights the organization’s commitment to community engagement and musical excellence.
For more information about the festival or CCYO programs, visit charlescountyyouthorchestra.org or email charlescountyyouthorchestra@gmail.com.
This free series offers a perfect summer cultural experience for families and classical music enthusiasts throughout the tri-county area.
