Up-close chamber music in welcoming spaces—where connection, conversation, and music come together.

CHAMBER MUSIC AT ITS INTIMATE BEST

Close encounters

What is Close Encounters?

Chamber music, up close

Close Encounters is a unique concert series from Cactus Pear Music Festival that brings chamber music into intimate, relaxed settings. These evenings blend live performance with conversation, wine, and light fare—creating a space where audiences can experience the music up close and connect more personally with the artists.

Why It's Special

Up-close performances in intimate venues

Meaningful connection with artists beyond the stage

A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with a reception

A shared experience that feels personal, immersive, and memorable

2025-2026 lineup

A Look Back at Last Season

Each evening offered a unique program and an opportunity to experience chamber music in a more personal way

The Guiding Light


OCTOBER 5, 2025 • 3 PM

with Stephanie Sant'Ambrogio, violin & 

Jeffrey Sykes, piano

AS THE WORLD TUrns: A candlemas celebration


JANUARY 31, 2026 • 7 PM

with Stas Venglevski, bayan & 

Jeffrey Sykes, piano

Search for Tomorrow


APRIL 19, 2026 • 3 PM

with Timothy Jones, bass-baritone, Jeffrey Sykes, piano, and Katrin Talbot, photographer/narrator

Thank you for contacting us.We’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

We got it.

stay tuned for next season

Get a front row seat to all things CPMF

We’re already looking ahead to our next Close Encounters series. Dates and details will be announced soon—stay connected so you don’t miss what’s next.

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