Comments & Reviews

MainStage Concerts

“It’s a tribute to Iowa musicians that Red Cedar features Iowa Composers and promotes Iowa Arts. I learn so much at every concert.” S.C.

“Music-making of the highest artistic level. The sizable audience at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art was spellbound by Red Cedar’s playing. Lovely programming tied in wonderfully with the historic event of the upcoming Grant Wood exhibition.” M.K.

“You destroyed all my notions that chamber music is all  ‘fiddle screech and piano tinkle.’  Your selections were tuneful and melodic.  The musicians obviously enjoyed it and I did too!” M.K.

“A quick note to tell you I had sweet dreams because of the concert last night.  Each time I attend a concert it becomes my favorite RCCM experience, displacing the pervious one.  I can’t put my finger on the specifics:  the three of you, your talent, your unique presence on the stage, your poise, your smiles, your eyes, your hands…  I’ve decided the “M” in RCCM stands for “magic”.  Thank you all for the experience of last night.”  K.H.

“Wonderful evening of great music.  Thanks for the insights.  It’s like being in New York—maybe better!” N.M.

“From my ears to my heart!  What a delightful sounds. I could scarcely take it all in. Thank you.” T.H.

“It is great to find such a wonderful classical ensemble with such a daring repertoire and such creativity.” M.S.

“Beautiful music for a wonderful summer evening! Your group is proof that Eastern Iowa is a place for dreams to come true.”M.T.

“I’ve been attending concerts for 64 years now, and this was the most fun.” B.S.

“Wonderful music from outstanding musicians! You guys are great!  I look forward to following you!  Consider me your newest loyal fan (or ‘cedar-head’)!” V.K.

“Excellent!  Perfect pacing.  Fantastic artistry with bits of comedy.  Musicians were perfectly matched.  So good to have this quality of music here in the Midwest.” N.Z.

“Awesome! Just spectacular in every way. What a gift to hear this music so superbly performed. Thanks to all who made this possible.” M.M.

“This was a memorable, wonderful concert. My mother is currently disabled due to a stroke. We spend our summer and fall at her home in Cedar Rapids. My home is in La Jolla, California. Over the years, I have attended many wonderful arts events there and abroad. This concert ranks with the best. The intimacy of the setting, superb acoustics, and wonderful performances will remain a highlight in my memory for many years to come.” C.K.

“What a wonderful opportunity! WOW! The educational components made connections that made the music relevant to all of us.  A tremendous memorable experience, Thank you!”  J.F.

“We love your music and always learn from you performances. Also, my husband stays awake—a miracle!” M.S

“Innovative, Exciting, inspiring.” R.D.
“Superb.  There are world-class musicians playing extraordinarily varied and challenging and beautiful music.

“I am new to the area and am astounded at the quality of the music I heard tonight, both the new composition and the ‘classical.’ What a treasure for Cedar Rapids and Eastern Iowa!” B.E.

“I don’t normally attend chamber music programs. However, this one may change my attitude! The music was fresh, good-humored and enjoyable. The musicians not only played well; they obviously enjoyed what they were doing. Finally, the acoustics of the performing area were bright and lively. Everything combined for a wonderful evening.” D.S.

“An incredible experience for one who was born “starved” for such music. I think it has been some 40 years since I attended chamber music in a salon-style setting. I look forward to many more such experiences from Red Cedar musicians. Thank you for a memorable evening!” H.P.

“I can be skeptical about new music, but this was such a treat.  I feel sorry for anybody who missed out!  This was what Chamber Music should be – warm and engaging, without pretension. I eagerly await your next performance in May!”  G.S.

“Thank you for transporting my soul to a calmer, tranquil place at the near end of a hectic summer!” K.O.

“Absolutely first rate – rivals musicians anywhere!!” J.W.

Rural Outreach Concerts

“Super group of musicians. Iowa is so much richer for Red Cedar’s contributions to musical life here.” S.C.

“Great concert. It is awesome to have a concert of this caliber in a rural setting, allowing folks who may not otherwise be able to attend a concert this wonderful opportunity!“ B.W.

“The manners in which the musical works are presented allow even untrained, unschooled of us to begin to understand something about each work. That leads to greater appreciation of them. The musicians are obviously very talented and accomplished. We’re so fortunate that they choose to perform in Iowa. Attended many previous concerts and thoroughly enjoyed them.” M.B.

“You have done so much for new music. The world will thank you for years to come. It is a privilege for us to be able to hear it.” J.C.

“Refreshing to a tired soul … delightful treat for the spirit…information on period music instruments was sweet. Thank you for coming to our basilica in the cornfield!”  C.T.

“Absolutely delightful! I hated to have the evening end. It’s appreciated that world class musicians perform in the out-of-the-way places.” M.P.

“Phenomenal! We are very privileged to have such accomplished musicians come to the small town of Kalona.  Thanks!” C.B.

“Extraordinaire!!  How fortunate are those of us who attended tonight.  Musicians of this caliber don’t happen often—especially in a town of five thousand people.” B.B.

“Congratulations! Exciting performance. I enjoyed the whole program. I am an admirer of the Red Cedar Chamber Music group and the way they involve their community with excellent educational concerts.” M.F.

“Sublime! I always enjoy John & Jan and the wonderful guest artists they invite. Superb!” A.F.

“Superb (as always)!  We attend every Boland-Dowdall concert we can. They are wonderful musicians and delightful people.” A.F.

“This was a beautiful experience. Thanks so much for coming to this little village with your exquisite music!” E.B.

“This was an amazing experience for me to come home to Iowa and hear this wonderful chamber music in such a great setting. As wonderful as anything I’ve ever heard in Chicago, New York, D. C. – – – or even Santa Fe or Albuquerque! I am envious of the Iowans who have this wonderful Red Cedar group. I hope you get lots and lots of grant money!” M.E.M.

“As always, it was superb! I never cease to be amazed at your innovative presentations.” C.C.

Premiere of New Works

“It’s a tribute to Iowa musicians that Red Cedar features Iowa Composers and promotes Iowa Arts. I learn so much at every concert.” S.C.

“Music-making of the highest artistic level. The sizeable audience at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art was spellbound by Red Cedar’s playing. Lovely programming tied in wonderfully with the historic event of the upcoming Grant Wood exhibition.” M.K.

“The manners in which the musical works are presented allow even untrained, unschooled of us to begin to understand something about each work. That leads to greater appreciation of them. The musicians are obviously very talented and accomplished. We’re so fortunate that they choose to perform in Iowa. Attended many previous concerts and thoroughly enjoyed them.” M.B.

“You have done so much for new music. The world will thank you for years to come. It is a privilege for us to be able to hear it.” J.C.

“Unique group of instruments with delightful sound and flexibility! Opportunity to hear premiere of Andrew Simpson’s work made even more enjoyable by hearing composer’s comments—great feature.” M.K.