Fri Jul 31 15:00

Harpsichord Workshop: Mélisande McNabney

Chamberfest is thrilled to welcome celebrated keyboardist Mélisande McNabney for an engaging historical keyboard workshop designed for pianists interested in exploring the soundworld of the harpsichord. Following a short introduction to the instrument and its relationship to the modern piano, selected students will work with McNabney in a masterclass setting, exploring repertoire through the particular touch, articulation, sound, and expressive possibilities of the harpsichord.

A laureate of the Musica Antiqua International Competition in Bruges, McNabney appears regularly as a soloist and chamber musician with leading ensembles and festivals in Canada and Europe. She is professor of harpsichord and director of the baroque ensemble at the Conservatoire de musique de Québec, and teaches historical keyboards at the Domaine Forget International Academy.

A performer of keyboard music across eras, McNabney is equally at home on the harpsichord, fortepiano, organ, and piano. Drawing on her deep expertise in historically informed performance, McNabney guides the next generation of keyboard musicians in discovering the expressive possibilities of each instrument, offering insight into style, gesture, ornamentation, continuo, and the relationship between performer and instrument.

Join us for this free public workshop, and experience the artistry, curiosity, and generosity at the heart of musical mentorship.

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear Mélisande McNabney perform with Isaac Chalk on Sunday, August 2 at 11am in Händel, Bach, and Sons.

Artists:

Tristan das Eiras | harpsichord
Kimberly McGrath | harpsichord
Enah Cheng | harpsichord

Programme:

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Lute Suite in E minor, BWV 996
        Gigue

Tristan das Eiras | harpsichord

Johann Christian Bach (1735-1782)
Keyboard Sonata in C minor, Op. 17, No. 2
        Prestissimo

Kimberly McGrath | harpsichord

J.S. Bach
French Suite No. 5 in G major, BWV 816
        Sarabande
        Gavotte

Enah Cheng | harpsichord

Download Programme

Chamberfest’s Community Engagement and Educational programming is made possible with the generous support of Jean Teron.

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Festival 2026

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Signature Series

Experience four spectacular programs on our Signature Series, featuring large-scale collaborations between world-renowned musicians at Ottawa’s Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre. The 2026 Signature Series is generously sponsored by Bytek Volkswagen & Carling Volvo. Included in Pass Prime. Tickets sold separately for all other pass holders and single ticket buyers.

Marina Kun Series

This series celebrates Canada’s world-class standard in chamber music performance, featuring some of Canada’s top pianists, brand new song cycles by two Ottawa-based composers, a genre-bending klezmer concert, and the debut of Chamberfest’s new ensemble-in-residence, the Chamberfest Camerata.  Taking place at Carleton Dominion-Chalmers and the Ottawa Art Gallery, these concerts are generously supported by Marina Kun (of Ottawa-based and internationally loved Kun Shoulder Rests).

Chamberfringe

Our late-night Chamberfringe concerts cross styles and art forms, pushing the boundaries of chamber music with eclectic and daring performances.  Offering everything from cutting edge new music for string ensemble with percussion to Iranian folk music to groovy blues – with many stops in between – there’s always something fresh to check out.  Our Chamberfringe shows take place at the Great Canadian Theatre Company, providing a casual setting where audiences can enjoy beverages and immerse themselves in the buzzing late-night atmosphere.

Midday Matinées

Showcasing seasoned professionals and new faces to the scene, Chamberfest’s Midday Matinée series offers a refreshing midday escape at stunning local venues. This year’s artists range from our annual Rising Stars Showcase, a collaboration between Poiesis Quartet and Jon Kimura Parker, and a touching tribute to Tafelmusik’s Jeanne Lamon.

Piano Portfolio

Piano Portfolio is a new series from Ottawa Chamberfest that allows us to explore the depth and scope of piano music within the context of Ottawa Chamberfest’s Festival and Concert Series programming. Chamberfest’s Piano Portfolio series is presented with the generous support of Marg Campbell. 

Prime Time

Experience Chamberfest like never before with the Prime Time Series, an exclusive offering reserved for Pass Prime holders. Set in the stunning Rossy Pavilion at the National Arts Centre, these private performances provide an intimate and elegant setting to connect with Chamberfest artists and fellow Chamberfriends. Enjoy up-close encounters with the musicians you love, all while indulging in the refined ambiance of this gorgeous venue. Elevate your festival experience with these carefully curated events—each one truly a moment to savour.

Early Music Now

Early Music Now is a new series from Ottawa Chamberfest that allows us to explore the depth and scope of early music within the context of Ottawa Chamberfest’s Festival and Concert Series programming. Chamberfest’s Early Music Now series is presented with the generous support of Nicole Presentey. 

New Music Now

The New Music Now Series shines a spotlight on Canada’s most compelling contemporary voices, from celebrated composers to the next generation. These avant-garde experiences bring bold premieres, milestone tributes, and dynamic performances to the forefront of the festival.

Beechwood Series

Held within Ottawa’s historic and beautiful Beechwood Cemetery, the Beechwood Series features performances that lend themselves to reflection and contemplation, both in its beloved Sacred Space and on the expansive grounds. The Beechwood Series is made possible with the generous support of Beechwood Cemetery.

The Record Centre Series

Set against a backdrop of vinyl, vintage speakers, and reel-to-reel charm, this beloved Wellington St. staple is the perfect setting for eclectic musical discoveries. Join us at The Record Centre on certain weekdays during the summer festival for FREE laid-back musical happy hours as Chamberfest artists share music close to their hearts in the cozy, intimate space.

Rideau Hall

Chamberfest presents free afternoon outdoor performances on the beautiful and majestic grounds of Rideau Hall, the residence of the Governor General of Canada.

Bring the Kids!

Chamberfest’s Bring the Kids! Series is a family-friendly chamber music experience at Ottawa’s City Hall, the National Arts Centre’s public spaces, and other venues around the city.  Featuring Chamberfest artists, Bring the Kids! Concerts are tailor-made for little ones, and the people who love them.

Outdoor Concerts

Get out into the open air with various festival performers for al fresco concerts in downtown Ottawa.  Bring your own seats or blankets and desired weather protection.  Please note: in inclement weather, concerts may be moved to indoor locations.

Free Community Events

Chamberfest’s Community Engagement and Education pillar (CEE) engages community members of all ages through a diverse range of meaningful musical experiences. Whether on stage, online, or on the streets, CEE changes lives through music.

Chamber Chats

Our beloved Chamber Chats feature in-depth conversations led by Chamberfest Artistic Director, Carissa Klopoushak or other Chamberfriends. Drawing on rich musical backgrounds of hosts and guests, these chats create special connections between guest musicians and our audiences by diving deep into topics surrounding music, the arts, and creativity.

Stay up-to-date about the latest Chamberfest events, artist spotlights, special offers, and much more:

Monday–Thursday | 10AM–4PM

4 Florence Street, Suite 201

Ottawa ON K2P 0W7 Canada

613.234.6306

info@chamberfest.com

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