ABOUT US

The 2024-’25 season marks the 72nd year of the Asheville Chamber Music Series (ACMS), which has sponsored over 295 concerts by some of the world’s finest classical musicians over the past seven decades. One of the oldest chamber music organizations in the United States, ACMS continues to thrive and to bring world-class chamber music to its growing and appreciative subscriber base. Concerts are typically held at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville.

The ACMS is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and supported by a part-time Administrative Director.

Founded in 1952 by Joe Vandewart, a refugee from Nazi Germany and ten other music lovers, the Asheville Chamber Music Series began modestly. After setting up a table in the lobby of the Battery Park Hotel, the group quickly found 800 people willing to pay the $4 price for a season subscription for “an unspecified number of concerts.” Please see the Our History page for more information.

For more than 40 years, a special fund has allowed youth to attend concerts free of charge. Additionally, when possible the ACMS sponsors a school concert or master class with a visiting ensemble.  See our Education Outreach page.

From 1952-1966, ACMS concerts were presented in the auditorium of the David Millard Junior High School. After successive moves to Lipinsky Auditorium at UNCA, the Asheville Community Theater and the Asheville School, concerts were moved to the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville (UUCA), which provides a comfortable, intimate setting conducive to the enjoyment of chamber music. Now along with the UUCA, the ACMS presents concerts in various locations throughout Asheville.