Organization

Founded in 2001, Fontana Chamber Arts is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the presentation of quality chamber music performances, community outreach and collaboration with other arts presenters. Presented with the Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming in 2007 as well as in 2005, Fontana brings world-renowned chamber music artists to the community, concentrating efforts on building audiences and increasing accessibility to chamber music in Kalamazoo and Southwest Michigan. Fontana’s mission is achieved through its month-long Summer Music Festival (June-July) and Winter Season (September-May). Fontana’s service boundaries encompass the Michigan counties of Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, Allegan and Van Buren. Fontana engages world-class artists in myriad and dynamic combinations of instruments, ages, stages of career, ethnic, cultural and educational backgrounds; artists are selected not only for their artistic reputations, but also for their commitment to education and expertise in reaching out to diverse populations. Fontana Chamber Arts programming reflects the vast diversity of chamber music as well the diversity of performers - highlighting FCA’s commitment to serve youth and students, families, adults, the elderly, minorities, persons with disabilities, and rural and new audiences. Performances and outreach are scheduled throughout West Michigan and include masterclasses, concerts for young audiences, school visits by guest artists, adult chamber music workshops, local neighborhood events, and retirement facility performances.