Odyssey Chamber Music Series

The Odyssey Chamber Music Series, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Odyssey was founded in 2004 by clarinetist Carina Nyberg and Edward S. Rollins, former Music Director of the First Baptist Church. Before the first season was initiated, Carina moved to Memphis. Her position was timely filled by her friend, pianist Ayako Tsuruta, who continues as Artistic Director this season.

Music lovers were immediately drawn to the variety of the program and the outstanding performances that took place in the reflective atmosphere of First Baptist Church. The sanctuary is designed specifically with musical performances in mind, and it provides an ideal space for chamber music. In less than a year, the audience doubled in number by the end of the Odyssey’s Inaugural Season.

The Odyssey Chamber Music Series is committed to presenting masterpieces of chamber music repertoire that span over four centuries, in mixed ensembles of all instruments. Odyssey cultivates interest in quality classical music performances through innovative programming involving professional local performers as well as guest artists from outside the community. The organization also educates audiences and the next generation of performers through program notes, pre-concert lectures, music classes, evaluative auditions, and student performances.

Chamber music involves musicians joining together to create a performance greater than each individual contribution. The Odyssey Chamber Music Series encourages this model of community with Columbia through the shared experience of great performances of great music - shared musical journeys.