Last weekend, Burlington became the unlikely epicenter of a true chamber‑music marathon. Photographer Luke Awtry bared witness to—and documented—a nonstop symphonic spree with a simple yet audacious goal: experience 12 different string‑quartet performances within 24 hours in the heart of the city Seven Days+4Seven Days+4Seven Days+4.
The Set-Up: Green Mountain Chamber Music Festival’s Quartet Hops
On Saturday, July 12, the Green Mountain Chamber Music Festival kicked off its downtown “Quartet Hops” at 11 a.m., sending pairs of student quartets to perform at:
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Muddy Waters
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Frog Hollow Vermont Craft Gallery
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Homeport
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Hotel Vermont
The day culminated with not one, but three ensembles at Phoenix Books at 3 p.m. All told, it made for an impressive 11 performances across five venues by day’s end Seven Days+1Seven Days+1.
The Skylark Finale: City Hall Park on Sunday
Just when you thought the marathon had ended, Sunday morning delivered a surprise encore. Starting at 10 a.m., the professional Skylark Quartet graced City Hall Park as part of Burlington City Arts’ Sunday Classical series. That pushed Luke past the dozen mark—and into record territory Seven Days.
With 12 live‑quartet sets under one’s belt in less than a day, Awtry wryly claimed: “this crown of laurels rests firmly on my head,” acknowledging that though live‑music lovers aren’t in competition, those who experienced any of the sets are already “in the winner’s circle—with me” Seven Days.
Why It Matters
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Celebrates emerging talent: Featuring student quartets across that Saturday stream highlighted fresh, young musicians in unique community venues.
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Chip away at the classical stigma: Instead of formal concert halls, these performances popped up in cafes, bookstores, and galleries—making chamber music feel accessible and alive.
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Shows commitment (and joy): Luke’s self‑founded “record” isn’t just about quantity—it’s about the thrill of discovery, one string quartet after another, each with its own flavor.
Final Thoughts ðŸ’
What began as ambitious photo‑journalism morphed into a true communal event: twelve quartets, six locations, a symphony of collaboration between festival organizers, student groups, local venues, and one passionate documentarian. It captures the essence of Burlington’s vibrant summer energy and reminds us: whether you catch one set or twelve, you're part of a music‑lover’s journey.
So next time you're wandering Burlington and hear that hint of a haunting violin from a corner café—lend an ear. You could be witnessing the next installment of the Quartet Hop, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll want to join the “winner’s circle” too.