Echoes of Bach: A Summer Journey with Chamber Music Northwest Summer Festival 2025 As A Staff Photographer

This summer in Portland, music lovers gathered once again for one of the city's most treasured traditions, Chamber Music Northwest’s 55th Summer Festival, themed Echoes of Bach. From June 28 through July 27, the festival explored the timeless influence of Johann Sebastian Bach, whose musical language continues to inspire composers and performers across generations.

Chamber Music Northwest' Young Artist Institute participant Leo Trajano performing with accompanist Elgin Lee at the 2025 Summer Festival YAI Showcase, Kaul Auditorium, Reed College, Portland, Oregon

As someone with deep ties to this community and a lifelong appreciation for the arts, I was incredibly honored to serve as a member of the photography staff for this year’s festival. To be behind the lens capturing the performances and the shared joy, quiet intensity, and magic of these moments, was a great experience.

One of the highlights of this year’s festival was the return of acclaimed violinist Benjamin Beilman, whose performance showcased both technical brilliance and emotional depth. Known for his bold interpretations and refined artistry, Beilman brought a magnetic presence to the stage, captivating the audience with every phrase. Whether performing as a soloist or collaborating in chamber works, his playing was marked by a rich, expressive tone and an effortless command of the instrument. Photographing Beilman in action was a true privilege—his intensity, focus, and passion came through not just in the music, but in every movement. His presence at Chamber Music Northwest added a thrilling dimension to the festival’s exploration of Bach’s enduring legacy.

Benjamin Bielman performs at the Chamber Music Northwest Summer Festival 2025 at Lincoln Recital Hall, Portland State University, Portland, Oregon

One of the most inspiring elements of the Chamber Music Northwest Summer Festival is the Young Artists Institute. A transformative, tuition free program that brings together exceptionally talented string players from across the country for an intensive three-week residency. Held at Reed College, this immersive experience offers these high school and early college musicians the chance to study chamber music with world-class faculty and perform on the same stages as the festival’s featured artists. As a photographer, it was a privilege to witness and document the dedication, growth, and sheer joy these young musicians brought to every rehearsal and performance. Their passion and professionalism were nothing short of remarkable, and their presence infused the festival with a vibrant sense of the future of chamber music.

Chamber Music Northwest' Young Artist Institute participants perform as a quartet for the 2025 Young Artist Institute Finale Concert as part of the Summer 2025 Festival, Kaul Auditorium, Reed College, Portland, Oregon

Equally inspiring was the Protégé Project, spotlighting emerging talents like Isabelle Ai Durrenberger and pianist Yutong Sun. Seeing these young artists step into the light and capturing their passion and promise was one of the highlights of my work this summer.

Isabelle Durrenberger & Yutong Sun perform at the Chamber Music Northwest Summer Festival 2025 at Lincoln Recital Hall, Portland State University, Portland, Oregon

Among the standout performances at this year’s festival was the electrifying appearance of the Viano Quartet, featuring Lucy Wang and Hao Zhou on violin, Aiden Kane on viola, and Tate Zawadiuk on cello. This award-winning ensemble brought a remarkable combination of precision, warmth, and expressive depth to every piece they performed. Whether navigating the intricacies of Beethoven or exploring contemporary compositions, their chemistry and command of the repertoire were undeniable. As a photographer, capturing their synergy on stage—each gesture and glance perfectly in sync—was an absolute joy. Their performance was a highlight of the festival and a powerful reminder of the extraordinary artistry that Chamber Music Northwest continues to bring to Portland.

Viano Quartet performs at the Chamber Music Northwest Summer Festival 2025 at Lincoln Recital Hall, Portland State University, Portland, Oregon

Being part of Chamber Music Northwest’s 2025 festival—both as an observer and a contributor—was more than a professional opportunity. It was a personal honor, a creative inspiration, and a reminder of the enduring power of music and community.

I’m grateful to have helped tell the story of this remarkable season through photography, and I can’t wait to see how the echoes continue in years to come.