Acclaimed Ensemble To Perform In Stamford

Information via Emerson Hall Foundation

STAMFORD, CT — The Emerson Hall Foundation at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation will present a performance by Quantum Leap, an ensemble known for blending classical and contemporary styles of chamber music. The concert is scheduled for Sunday, May 4, at 3 p.m. in the Sanctuary of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at 20 Forest St. in Stamford.

The program will feature works by New Canaan native and composer Gwyneth Walker, who will also narrate her piece "Trails and Open Spaces." Walker, a prolific composer with more than 400 commissioned works, brings musical brilliance and storytelling to the stage. The program also includes "How Rivers Become Other Rivers" by Marc Chan and Antonín Dvořák’s "Piano Quintet in A major, Op. 81."

“True ‘quantum leaps’—the jumps electrons make between energy levels—are actually small but definitive changes,” said Gunnar Sahlin, cellist and founding member of Quantum Leap, in a news release. “Our ensemble explores those subtle but meaningful shifts in music, blending contemporary and classical music, and adapting our performers to suit the music.”

Sahlin, who served as principal cellist of the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra from 2002 to 2024, said the group, while based locally, maintains an international reach. “We have the privilege to collaborate with living composers whose works are played around the world,” he said.

Bonnie Currie, board president of the Emerson Hall Foundation, said the concert reflects the organization's mission of fostering artistic experiences.

"Events like Quantum Leap beautifully reflect what Emerson Hall is all about—bringing people together through inspiring artistic experiences in a place rich with history," Currie said in a news release. "We're proud to support programs that celebrate both local and international talent, and help make the arts more accessible to our local community."

The performance is supported in part by a grant from the Stamford Arts and Culture Commission.

Quantum Leap Ensemble Performers: Edita Orlinyte (violin), Shan Jiang (violin), Suzanne Corey-Sahlin (viola), Gunnar Sahlin (cello), and Maxim Pakhomov (piano).

Admission: Suggested donation of $20. To reserve your seat and make a donation in advance, please click HERE or visit www.emersonhall.org. Cash and checks will be accepted at the door.

Following the concert, guests are invited to a reception, where they can meet the musicians and composers in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.

About The Emerson Hall Foundation

The Emerson Hall Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Emerson Hall, a historic venue located in downtown Stamford. It was erected by the Universalist Society of Stamford in 1871 and continues its heritage today through the Unitarian Universalist Congregation. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the structure is a stunning example of English Country Gothic architecture.

With almost perfect acoustics in its intimate setting, Emerson Hall can host art, culture, creative learning, and private events. It is available for rental and holds up to 150 people in flexible theatre-style seating. The Foundation’s mission is to ensure that this inspiring space continues to serve as a cultural asset where history, creativity, and community converge.