The University of Georgia Performing Arts Center will host the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble for the annual Jack Payne Memorial Concert on October 5 at 3 p.m. in Hodgson Concert Hall. The event is free, but tickets are required for entry.
Founded in 1967 by principal players from the renowned London orchestra, the ensemble has developed a global reputation through its performances and recordings. Their Athens concert will feature three pieces for winds and strings, highlighting both modern and classical music.
The program begins with Huw Watkins’ new Octet, composed specifically for this tour. Watkins, who is known as a Welsh composer and pianist, incorporates slow sections and energetic passages into the work.
Next on the program is Jean Françaix’s Octet, described as “a witty and stylish work dedicated to Franz Schubert.” The press release notes that Françaix aimed to write “music to give pleasure,” and this piece features playful exchanges between winds and strings.
After intermission, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Septet, Op. 20 will be performed. This six-movement piece has been popular since its premiere in 1800 and is recognized as a key work in chamber music for winds and strings.
The Payne Memorial Concert honors Dr. William Jackson “Jack” Payne, former dean of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences at UGA. He established the Franklin College Chamber Music Series in 1978, leading to an annual free concert each season named after him.
A pre-performance talk by Theresa Chafin will take place from 2 to 2:30 p.m. in Ramsey Concert Hall. Attendees are also invited to a post-concert reception.
Jennifer Holcomb supports this performance.
Tickets can be reserved online at pac.uga.edu, by calling the Performing Arts Center box office at 706-542-4400 during business hours, or by visiting the box office in person (with short-term parking available). Information about accessibility and amenities is available on the venue’s website, where additional details about other events can also be found (https://pac.uga.edu).
Audience members have options to create their own series of three or more performances with a discount. Single tickets for UGA Presents events start at $30 with promo code PAC30; student tickets are $15.
Parking for this event is free.
