James Ehnes Extends with Seattle Chamber Music Society

Ehnes’ contract as artistic director has been extended through 2032

Founded in 1982, the Seattle Chamber Music Society (SCMS) has been pivotal in Seattle’s arts scene, helping present high-caliber performances and sharing its mission of making chamber music more accessible. 

James Ehnes has now signed a new eight-year contract with the SCMS, continuing his position as its Gilbert Omenn and Martha Darling Artistic Director through 2032. Ehnes was first appointed to the role in 2012.

So far, his tenure highlights have included the opening of the SCMS Center for Chamber Music, creating the acclaimed SCMS Virtual Concert Hall, establishing inclusive chamber music academies, and more than doubling its yearly concert activity. 

Ehnes’s new eight-year extension with the organization will continue both parties’ impactful collaboration and goals in expanding the reach of top-class chamber music performance.

“Seattle Chamber Music Society is truly my artistic home and I am honored to continue our work together,” Ehnes said in a press release. “There has been no greater pleasure in my career than having this opportunity to present the greatest music with the greatest artists for our wonderful audiences in Seattle and beyond.”

“As one of the most celebrated musicians of his generation, James Ehnes’s choice to dedicate such a significant part of his career to chamber music is a major win for this art form and its role in shaping the cultural landscape of our cities,” added John Holloway, Executive Director of SCMS. “I believe chamber music will be the cornerstone of classical music in American cities moving forward, and James’s decision only strengthens that vision.”

Additionally, Ehnes has heralded SCMS’s 2025 Winter Festival — scheduled from January 24 to February 2, the program will feature works from 1850-1950 by 18 composers.

“Our 2025 Winter Festival is a celebration of the best our art form has to offer,” Ehnes said. “It’s exhilarating to witness the alchemy of these world-class artists performing in unique chamber music contexts and an absolute thrill to share this incredible music with audiences near and far.”

For more information, click here.