The New Hollywood String Quartet (NHSQ) returns with its Summer of Angels Chamber Music Festival, taking place July 10–13, 2025, at The Huntington’s Rothenberg Hall. This year’s edition honors the iconic Hollywood String Quartet through performances inspired by their celebrated Capitol Records discography.
World-renowned conductor Leonard Slatkin, son of Hollywood String Quartet founders Felix Slatkin and Eleanor Aller, will introduce and speak at each of the festival’s four concerts, offering personal insight and historical context for the repertoire.
July 10: Jean-Yves Thibaudet Opens the Festival
The series begins on Thursday, July 10 at 7:30 p.m., with internationally acclaimed pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet joining the NHSQ. The program features expressive chamber masterpieces by Borodin and Franck, setting a high bar for the weekend of performances.
July 11: Alban Gerhardt Performs Schubert Quintet
On Friday, July 11 at 7:30 p.m., celebrated cellist Alban Gerhardt takes the stage for Schubert’s String Quintet in C Major. The NHSQ will open the evening with Tchaikovsky’s lyrical Quartet No. 1.
July 12: Nokuthula Ngwenyama and Olga Zado Highlight Verklärte Nacht
Saturday, July 12 at 5:00 p.m. brings a rich mix of contemporary and Romantic works. Acclaimed violist and composer Nokuthula Ngwenyama joins Gerhardt and the NHSQ for Schoenberg’s Verklärte Nacht, while pianist Olga Zado collaborates on Schumann’s Piano Quintet.
July 13: Brahms Quintet Concludes Festival
The festival concludes on Sunday, July 13 at 5:00 p.m. with Walton’s Quartet No. 2, followed by Brahms’ Piano Quintet in F Minor, often considered one of the crown jewels of chamber music. Pianist Olga Zado returns to the stage for this powerful finale.
A Celebration of Musical Legacy and Artistic Excellence
Festivalgoers will enjoy an immersive musical experience steeped in history and artistry, surrounded by the serene beauty of The Huntington’s gardens. In a 2024 Los Angeles Times review, music critic Mark Swed praised the NHSQ for channeling the golden era of Hollywood studio musicians, writing: “The golden era of soundtracks is owed in large part to such studio musicians. That’s still true with the New Hollywood.”
Festival passes and single tickets are now available at www.summerofangels.com. Early booking is recommended for this highly anticipated chamber music event.
