As a music lover and advocate for the arts, I’ve always been fascinated by the impact live performances have on a community. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Joanne Dennstedt, Vice President of the Chamber Musicians of Kamloops (CMK), to discuss the organization’s journey, its contributions to Kamloops’ cultural landscape, and the importance of chamber music in our daily lives.
For those unfamiliar with the term, chamber music is a genre that features small ensembles of musicians — often a string quartet, piano trio, or similar group — performing in an intimate setting. Unlike grand orchestral works, which rely on a conductor and large sections of instruments, chamber music is defined by its conversational nature. Each musician plays an independent part, creating a deeply engaging and dynamic listening experience. This genre allows for subtle nuances, musical interplay, and an emotional connection between performers and audiences that is truly unique.
At its core, CMK is dedicated to ensuring that the rich and intimate sound of chamber music continues to thrive in Kamloops and the Thompson-Okanagan region. Whether through spellbinding live performances, collaborations with local artists, or mentoring young musicians, CMK keeps this timeless genre alive.
“Music, arts, and culture are food for our souls,” Dennstedt told me passionately. “They inspire us and connect us to each other.”
As we talk, I realize how deeply music is woven into the fabric of a healthy and connected community. Live performances don’t just entertain; they bring people together across generations and backgrounds, creating a shared experience that strengthens the social fabric of the city. Studies have shown that exposure to music enhances emotional well-being, fosters empathy, and cultivates a sense of belonging—something CMK embodies in every performance.
Beyond their concerts, CMK actively fosters the next generation of musicians. They partner with the Kamloops Festival of the Performing Arts (KFPA) to recognize and support young chamber musicians, while also collaborating with members of the Kamloops Symphony. By doing so, CMK ensures that the classical tradition remains a vibrant force in our community.
I asked Dennstedt about some of the standout performances from recent years, and her face lit up. She recalled the opening concert of the 2023–2024 season, a dazzling tribute to Canadian composer Imant Raminsh. Another unforgettable performance was Mistral: Songs of the Mediterranean, where hauntingly beautiful melodies met the fiery rhythms of flamenco, Moroccan, Turkish, and Greek Sephardic ballads. “It was a feast for both the ears and the soul,” Dennstedt reminisced.
Looking ahead to the 2024–2025 season, CMK’s Musical Explorations theme promises to take audiences on a sonic adventure. “We are engaging both professional and amateur musicians, as well as young performers,” she explained. “Youth involvement is key to making our concerts more accessible and inspiring the next generation of artists.”
Like any arts organization, CMK has faced its share of challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic forced them to pivot to live-streamed performances, ensuring that music remained a source of comfort and connection even in isolation. Despite these obstacles, CMK emerged stronger, with an increased focus on youth participation.
“I was recently invited to play saxophone with the Chamber Musicians of Kamloops,” shared young performer Johan Campsall. “It was incredibly cool to play with professional musicians. It has really inspired me to get involved in chamber music in the future.”
Since introducing free concert admission for attendees under 19 in December 2022, CMK has welcomed an influx of young audience members. By featuring youth performers in their concerts, they are not only providing mentorship but also building a future generation of music lovers and artists.
As a non-profit, CMK relies heavily on community support. “We would like to see more financial support from our patrons and the community,” Dennstedt admitted. “As a volunteer-led organization, our resources are limited, but we are committed to making chamber music accessible to all.”
Fundraising is a critical component of CMK’s ability to continue delivering high-quality performances. While grants help sustain operations, individual and business contributions are essential to ensuring long-term growth. Sponsorships, donations, and ticket sales directly impact the organization’s ability to engage musicians, book venues, and offer accessible pricing for audiences.
But financial support isn’t the only way to help. Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of CMK’s concert series. From assisting with marketing and promotions to helping with event logistics and ushering at performances, there are plenty of opportunities for community members to get involved. “We are always looking for passionate individuals who want to support live music in Kamloops,” Dennstedt said. “Every small effort contributes to keeping chamber music alive in our city.”
The benefits of a thriving music scene extend far beyond the performers and audiences. Local businesses, schools, and cultural institutions all gain from an active arts community. Restaurants and cafes see increased traffic on concert nights, while schools benefit from enriched arts education programs. Vibrant public spaces filled with live music create a more inviting and dynamic city for residents and visitors alike.
Looking to the future, CMK is eager to broaden its musical horizons by incorporating jazz musicians into the 2025–2026 season. “We’re always looking for new ways to evolve and keep our programming fresh and exciting,” Joanne told me. “The more diverse our concerts, the more people we can inspire.”
My conversation with Joanne made one thing abundantly clear: CMK is more than just an organization — it’s a cultural heartbeat that keeps the spirit of live music alive in Kamloops. By providing a space for artists to collaborate, grow, and share their craft, CMK helps shape the city’s artistic identity.
“Supporting the arts enhances and builds our community,” she said. “It makes Kamloops a better place to live.”
The role of music in society is undeniable — it has the power to heal, unite, and inspire. As Kamloops continues to grow, organizations like CMK will play an increasingly important role in maintaining the city’s vibrancy. Attending concerts, supporting local musicians, volunteering, and advocating arts funding are just some of the ways residents can ensure that music remains a vital and enriching part of their community.
For those eager to experience the magic of live chamber music, CMK’s upcoming concert promises to be a thrilling musical journey. Partners in Crime will take audiences from 18th-century Europe to modern-day Canada, featuring music by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach and his daughter Anna Carolina Philippina, as well as Leopold Mozart and his famous son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
The concert will take place May 31 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church and feature performers Anika Howell (soprano), Ivan Vutev (countertenor), Cvetozar Vutev (violin), and Curtis Howell (harpsichord/organ). Tickets are $25, $20 for CMK members, free for students under 19.
As I wrapped up my conversation with Joanne, I couldn’t help but feel a renewed sense of appreciation for chamber music and the dedicated individuals who keep it alive. CMK is not just about concerts — it’s about community, education, and the transformative power of music. If you haven’t yet attended one of their performances, now is the perfect time to start. Let’s keep the music playing, Kamloops.