Newport Classical continues its 2025-2026 Chamber Series this October with two world-class performances at the Newport Classical Recital Hall.
Violinist Blake Pouliot and pianist Henry Kramer will take the stage Friday, Oct. 3, at 7:30 p.m., delivering a Romantic program featuring Schumann’s Violin Sonata No. 1, Dvořák’s Zigeunerlieder, and Chausson’s Poème.
Pouliot, celebrated by the Los Angeles Times for his “radiant sound and high-powered virtuosity,” has recently debuted with major orchestras including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, London Philharmonic and Philadelphia Orchestra. The Toronto Star describes him as “one of those special talents that comes along once in a lifetime.”
Joining him is acclaimed pianist Henry Kramer, who returns to Newport Classical after previous appearances. The New York Times has praised Kramer for his “astonishingly confident technique.” The duo made their Carnegie Hall debut together this past May.
Two weeks later, on Friday, Oct. 17, at 7:30 p.m., Trio Zimbalist makes its Newport Classical debut. The ensemble comprises violinist Josef Špaček, cellist Timotheos Gavriilidis-Petrin and pianist George Xiaoyuan Fu — all distinguished alumni of Philadelphia’s Curtis Institute of Music.
Critics have praised the trio’s “precision and feverish intensity” (EfSyn) and performances of “pure enjoyment” (Athinorama). Their October program opens with George Xiaoyuan Fu’s Piano Trio, followed by Smetana’s emotionally charged Piano Trio in G minor, Op. 15, and concludes with Beethoven’s beloved “Archduke” Piano Trio in B-flat Major, Op. 97.
The trio takes its name from violin virtuoso Efrem Zimbalist, who served as faculty and director at Curtis Institute for 40 years combined.
Both concerts take place at the Newport Classical Recital Hall at 42 Dearborn St. Doors open at 7 p.m. with complimentary wine provided by Gold’s Wine and Spirits. Wine service continues during intermission.
As part of Newport Classical’s Music Enrichment and Engagement Initiative, both visiting artists will also perform at local schools or community organizations.
The Chamber Series features 12 concerts on select Fridays between September 2025 and June 2026. Upcoming performances include a free Community Concert with classical guitarist Aaron Larget-Caplan on Oct. 12 at Emmanuel Church, followed by pianist Charlotte Hu on Nov. 7 and saxophonist Valentin Kovalev on Nov. 21.
Information and tickets are available at www.newportclassical.org.
