Kingston Notes is a podcast from the Kingston Chamber Music Festival in Kingston, RI, featuring conversations with musicians, composers, and more! Learn more at kingstonchambermusic.org
What happens in your brain when you listen to music? Why can a favorite song lower stress, trigger vivid memories, or even help people cope with grief?
In this episode, Anna Gray sits down with Diana Wang, a medical student at Brown University, neuroscientist, and trained violinist, to explore what researchers are learning about music as a health behavior. From dopamine and neurotransmitters to the emerging field of arts prescribing, Diana explains how music affects the brain and body—and why scientists are increasingly studying music alongside sleep, exercise, and nutrition as a contributor to health and well-being.
The conversation also explores the role of music in grief, what makes certain pieces so emotionally powerful, and how understanding the science behind music can deepen our experience of listening.
This episode offers a new way to think about every concert you attend this year at the Kingston Chamber Music Festival (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/)!
1 Jul 2026
Finding Your Voice: Kate Liu on Music, Meaning, and Connection
Internationally acclaimed pianist Kate Liu (https://www.kateliu.com/) joins Kingston Notes to discuss artistic voice, authenticity, the magic of live performance, and why classical music remains an essential part of modern life. From her earliest experiences at the piano to her reflections on chamber music, collaboration, and emotional connection, Kate offers an inspiring perspective on the power of music to help us better understand ourselves and one another.
The Kingston Chamber Music Festival's two-week festival will be held July 22-August 2, 2026 in Kingston, Rhode Island. More information and tickets: https://kingstonchambermusic.org/ (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/)
17 Jun 2026
Elizabeth Beisel on the Courage to Evolve
Olympic medalist, musician, creator, and Rhode Island native Elizabeth Beisel (https://www.elizabethbeisel.com/) joins Kingston Notes for a conversation about identity, creativity, and the courage to evolve.
Reflecting on art, reinvention, and the many roles we inhabit throughout our lives, Elizabeth shares how powerful it can be to embrace the many layers of who we are—and the freedom that comes from pursuing multiple passions.
At the heart of our conversation is a powerful idea: whether in music, sports, or any creative endeavor, the goal is not simply to perform but to create experiences that allow people to connect with something genuine and meaningful.
This summer, Elizabeth makes her Kingston Chamber Music Festival debut in a special July 31 performance celebrating the rich intersections of classical, folk, bluegrass, jazz, and contemporary American music. Performing alongside violinist Zachary DePue, the program reimagines the traditional American fiddle contest through a vibrant mix of hoedowns, waltzes, and genre-crossing collaborations. More information and tickets are available here (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/)!
3 Jun 2026
Julian Rhee on Tradition, Discovery, and Connection
Violinist Julian Rhee (https://www.julianrhee.com/) joins us for a thoughtful conversation about artistry, curiosity, and the enduring power of live music.
A recipient of the 2024 Avery Fisher Career Grant, Julian has emerged as one of the most exciting young musicians of his generation, earning acclaim for performances that combine technical brilliance with remarkable emotional depth. This summer, he makes his Kingston Chamber Music Festival debut on July 31st, August 1st, and August 2nd.
In this conversation, Julian reflects on the importance of balancing intention with openness in music-making and shares how discovery continues to shape his artistic journey. We discuss the relationship between tradition and innovation, the unique connection created between performers and audiences, and why live performance remains such a vital experience in today's increasingly digital world.
Julian also offers insightful perspectives on creativity, collaboration, community, and the responsibilities artists have — not only to the music itself, but to the people who come together to experience it.
The Kingston Chamber Music Festival's two-week festival will be held July 22-August 2, 2026 in Kingston, Rhode Island. More information and tickets are available here (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/).
20 May 2026
Terra String Quartet: The Art of Making Meaning (Part II)
In the second installment of a two-part conversation, violinist Harriet Langley and cellist Audrey Chen of the Terra String Quartet (https://www.terrastringquartet.com/) reflect on the deeper purpose behind their work as an ensemble.
They discuss the importance of being fully present in each performance, allowing space for listeners to form their own personal connections to the music. Harriet and Audrey also share how they are expanding the reach of chamber music through social media, collaboration, and a commitment to making the art form more open and human. They reflect on future projects, the importance of working with living composers, and the evolving role of classical music in today’s world.
The Terra String Quartet will make their Rhode Island debut at the Kingston Chamber Music Festival (https://kcmfestival.flywheelsites.com/) this summer, performing on July 24, 25, and 26.
6 May 2026
Terra String Quartet: The Art of Listening Together (Part I)
In this first part of a two-part conversation, host Anna Gray speaks with violinist Harriet Langley and cellist Audrey Chen of the Terra String Quartet. (https://www.terrastringquartet.com/)
They share the story of how the quartet came together, the meaning behind their name, and what it takes to build an ensemble rooted in communication, trust, and collaboration. The conversation also explores their approach to storytelling in chamber music, both on stage and in the programs they create.
Looking beyond the music itself, they reflect on what chamber music can offer in today’s world, and how it can foster connection, empathy, and shared understanding.
The Terra String Quartet will make their Rhode Island debut at the Kingston Chamber Music Festival (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/) this summer, performing July 24–26. Learn more and purchase tickets here (https://kcmfestival.flywheelsites.com/events/)!
22 Apr 2026
Life, Liberty & Music
Host Anna Gray talks with pianist and Artistic Director Natalie Zhu (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/artist/natalie-zhu/) about the 2026 Kingston Chamber Music Festival and its theme, Life, Liberty & Music.
They explore how a festival season is shaped--from concept to stage--and how chamber music can spark dialogue, connect cultures, and bring people together in meaningful ways. As the festival enters its 38th season alongside the nation’s 250th anniversary, this conversation reflects on music as a living, evolving art form how music that carries history and opens space for conversation in uncertain times.
The Kingston Chamber Music Festival's two-week festival will be held July 22-August 2, 2026 in Kingston, Rhode Island. More information and tickets: kingstonchambermusic.org/ (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/)
16 Jul 2025
A Classical Orchestration of Rattle Songs
On August 3, the Dover Quartet (https://www.doverquartet.com/) returns to the Kingston Chamber Music Festival (KCMF) to perform Jerod Impichchaachaaha' Tate (https://jerodtate.com/) (Chickasaw)'s Rattle Songs, a classical transcription of a piece originally written by Purá Fe and performed by Ulali, a trio who combined Native roots and contemporary styles with vocals, stomping, and rattling turtle shells. In this episode, Camden Shaw, cellist of the Dover Quartet, and Tate discuss the piece.
Listen to a panel conversation with Tate, Shaw, and others here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_sG9GoJiPU).
KCMF's 37th season will be held July 23-August 3 in Edwards Hall at the University of Rhode Island. Learn more and purchase tickets on our website (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/)! See the full list of repertoire for the August 3rd concert here (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/event/concert-6-celebrating-37-years-of-musical-excellence/).
Thank you to our podcast sponsor, the Matunuck Oyster Bar, and our recording engineer, Ethan Hicks.
1 Jul 2025
Intergenerational Community and Collaboration
Artistic Directors Natalie Zhu and Allison Lacasse explore the collaborative relationship between the Kingston Chamber Music Festival and the URI Summer Music Academy, offering young musicians masterclasses and performance opportunities; Sophia Rousseau interviews Carleton Fisher, scholarship recipient, in this interview episode.
25 Jun 2025
Creating Beauty with Amy Oshiro-Morales
Violinist Amy Oshiro-Morales discusses her upcoming performances at the Kingston Chamber Music Festival, including Eugène Ysaÿe's Solo Violin Sonata No.3, and emphasizes the significance of creating and appreciating beauty in the arts in this interview.
17 Jun 2025
Introducing In Triplicate
Violinist Jasmine Lin, cellist Clancy Newman, and bassist Nate Farrington of In Triplicate explore their trio's origins and push the boundaries of classical music in this interview.
10 Jun 2025
Henry Kramer on the Surprises of Chamber Music
Pianist Henry Kramer explores the unexpected elements of chamber music and its ability to help people understand the world in this interview episode.
3 Jun 2025
Enjoying the Moment with Elissa Lee Koljonen
Violinist Elissa Lee Koljonen discusses her career and upcoming performance at the Kingston Chamber Music Festival, showcasing her celebrated talent and experience in venerated concert venues in this interview.
27 May 2025
Young Artists in the Spotlight
Teenage musicians William Ge, Clara Chen, and Julie Chen share their experiences with the Kingston Chamber Music Festival and discuss the impact of the festival on young artists in an interview.
18 May 2025
The Magic and Mystery of 7 Haikus
The Kingston Chamber Music Festival (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/) will present its 37th season July 23-August 3, 2025 in Edwards Hall at the University of Rhode Island (URI). In this episode, you'll hear from pianist Moé Takamatsu (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/artist/moe-takamatsu/)and classical guitarist Adrián Montero (https://adrian-montero.com/). They play together as Hashi Duo and will perform Marvin Camacho (https://marvincamacho.com/)'s 7 Haikus on July 23. You'll also hear from Dr. Eliane Aberdam, a composer and professor of music at URI.
Thank you to our podcast sponsor, the Matunuck Oyster Bar, and to our recording engineer, Ethan Hicks.
The intro music for this podcast was created and performed by cellist and composer Clancy Newman using just his cello.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit our website! (https://kingstonchambermusic.org/).
11 May 2025
The Kingston Chamber Music Festival: An Overview
The Kingston Chamber Music Festival (KCMF) has proudly presented extraordinary chamber music concerts in Kingston, RI, since 1989. In this episode, you'll hear from KCMF Artistic Director and pianist Natalie Zhu and longtime patron Dr. David Fastovsky.
Our 37th season will be held July 23-August 3, 2025 in Edwards Hall at the University of Rhode Island. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit kingstonchambermusic.org.
Thank you to our podcast sponsor, the Matunuck Oyster Bar!
The intro music for this podcast was created and performed by cellist and composer Clancy Newman using just his cello!
Recording engineer: Ethan Hicks
Who has been a guest on Kingston Notes
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Carleton Fisher
Amy Oshiro-Morales
Jasmine Lin
Clancy Newman
Nate Farrington
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 10 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
7
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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