Known for producing innovative classical music performances with a welcoming spirit, Open Classical kicks off its second season of Artist Series programs in September with Around the World and Beyond, a musical journey that begins with a trip through varying cultures and culminates in the universal tale of the sacrificial hero. 
“This series will distinguish itself from other chamber music series in a number of ways,” says Director Mark Landson. “Besides the fact that the audience can eat and drink at every concert, the programs and artistry presented will be a direct reflection of a particular philosophy. Rather than presenting one-dimensional themed programs, each is a journey presenting a full range of emotional content and varied sonorities. The performers are specifically chosen for their desire to create hyper-musical performances, stepping outside of current academic interpretations. And lastly, the programs present both music of the old masters, as well as, new music on the same program – the new music is chosen for its ability to capture the audience’s attention equal to the standards of the old classical masters.” 
Around the World and Beyond is an excellent example of this programming philosophy. The concert begins with Russian composer Alexander Borodin’s famous String Quartet No. 2 in D Major, and continues with “Maathras,” a piece for traditional Indian mrindangam drum and string quintet by Chicago-based composer Keith Murphy. Soprano Priscilla Murphy then sings a mix of art songs and arias of French, German and Italian influence, and the program concludes with Mark Landson’s riveting and intense piano quintet “Vokante Heroa.” Each program will be presented multiple times throughout the DFW metroplex. The shows are ticketed, with the price reflecting the environment of the location. Amplified shows in rock or jazz club atmospheres are priced $10 adults/$5 for students. Acoustic concerts in restaurants or wine bars with dinner or hors d’oeuvres are priced $20-$25. 
A portion of the funding of the Artist Series programs comes from donations received at its popular Classical Open Mic events, currently held at Buzzbrews on Lemmon Avenue in Dallas every Tuesday and every first Monday at Cedars Woodfire Grill in Frisco. Open Classical has produced over 80 events in the past year, bringing its vision of expanding classical music to over 10,000 people. Around the World and Beyond is the first of six Artist Series concerts presented by Open Classical and planned for the ’14-15 season throughout the DFW metroplex:
- Wednesday, September 10, 2014: 8pm $10 Adults/ $5 Students at AllGood Café – 2934 Main St; Dallas TX
- Thursday, September 11, 2014: 7:30pm $10 Adults / $5 Students at Turkish Café – 8412 Preston Rd; Plano TX
- Sunday, September 21, 2014: 6pm $20 Adults at Times Ten Wine Cellars Annex – 6324 Prospect Ave.; Dallas TX
Seating begins 30 minutes prior to each concert and tickets are available at Open Classical – DFW. Contact: Patricia Yakesch 972.215.9735
