Chamber Music America (CMA) recently hosted its first conference outside New York City in many years, marking a significant milestone in its history.
The event, hosted in Houston, was a resounding success, offering a unique blend of music, networking and learning opportunities. Jenny Bilfield, President and CEO of Washington Performing Arts, reflected on the conference’s impact, sharing her own experiences and insights.
This was Chamber Music America’s (CMA) first conference outside NYC in many years, and it was an overwhelming success by every measure. The Houston location offered several advantages, including cost-effectiveness and increased buying power, which provided an abundance of meals and snacks. Additionally, the partnership opportunities and geographical reach were greatly enhanced. The elegant and comfortable Intercontinental Hotel, along with the acoustically excellent venues at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, created perfect environments for listening, learning, meeting, socialising and networking. With the highest level of participation in three years, the success of this conference inspired planning for the next one. Exuberant applause greeted the announcement that the 2026 convening will be in late August in Chicago—a better time of year for educators, performers, managers and presenters.
Some of the standout experiences included the 12-hour “Friday Festival Chamber Music Marathon” at the Shepherd School, which showcased the deep bench of chamber music talent nurtured within the school. Attendees were treated
to imaginative 30-minute programmes created by outstanding professional groups spanning a wide range of genres.
The Houston location also enabled visitors to engage with stellar ensembles and artists who enrich the city’s creative life, such as ROCO, DACAMERA, Apollo Chamber Players and Musiqa. These ensembles not only perform but also serve as educators and civic leaders, contributing significantly to the local music scene.
The conference sessions were diverse and engaging, ranging from technical discussions on commissioning and collaboration, led by the American Composers Forum and New Music USA, to strategic finance and marketing sessions. Each morning, attendees could participate in BYO instrument gatherings, known as “Bach Over Breakfast”. Additionally, there were riveting discussions with composer and founder of
the American Association of Creative Musicians, Roscoe Mitchell, and his collaborators on his Metropolis Trilogy. The conference also featured a Keynote Address by author and chef J. Kenji López-Alt.
As the conference drew to a close, it was clear that the chamber music community is thriving with talent, energy and intentional good will—surely a stabilising force in the face of uncertain times ahead in the United States. This community is a place where deep connection is not only possible but also deeply valued, providing a strong foundation for continued growth and collaboration.
Jenny Bilfield is President and CEO of Washington Performing Arts and a Board Member of Chamber Music America.