Classical soirees

Jazz and blues have been a staple in Old Town for some time now with the annual Lansing JazzFest, but one gallery is bringing classical music into the mix. 

Since 2009, Absolute Gallery has offered the Absolute Music Chamber Series. Described as a “European soiree,” each concert includes music, art, refreshments and a Q&A session with the musicians. 

“I just had this notion that bringing classical music to the greater Lansing area would be nice, to get it out of the academic setting,” said Richard Sherman, co-founder of the event and Flute Professor at Michigan State University. 

Sherman suggested the idea of a concert series to friend and Absolute Gallery owner Kathy Holcomb years ago. 

“What I like about it is I’m able to come up with eclectic programs that I’d like to hear and get younger people involved for a great date night,” Sherman said.

Sherman, along with cellist Robert deMaine and pianist James Wilhelmsen make up the Icarus Trio, which presents “Icarus Trio on Fire” this Friday. Wilhelmsen is the owner and director of the Clarkston Conservatory of Music, and deMaine is principal cellist of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. 

“We have a lot of energy and we sort of aspire for the highest heights of energy and play level,” Sherman said.

The last concert for the season, “Saxophone Al Fresco!” will be March 30, featuring a quartet of graduate students from MSU. Not only does Sherman hope that the concert series brings classical to Lansing, he wants it to put Lansing on the map for the arts. 

“I want us to be as well known for the arts as Detroit and Grand Rapids, and I think it’s working,” Sherman said. 

‘Icarus Trio on Fire’

Absolute Gallery

307 E. Grand River Ave., Lansing 

Doors 7 p.m., concert 8 p.m.

$15, students $5

Tickets available at Arts Council of Greater Lansing or Absolute Gallery

www.absolutemusiclansing.org