Join us for a sophisticated evening of classical music as the WCHOF Music Series celebrates the arrival of Fall. Featuring world-class musicians, this concert is an essential cultural event for music lovers and a highlight of the Saint Louis concerts calendar. The performance takes place at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries, a unique Saint Louis museum and art gallery that offers an unforgettable atmosphere where strategic games meet sonic masterpieces.

The Program: Passion and Poetry

Experience a journey through the heights of romantic expression with:

• Frauenliebe und Leben, Op. 42 (Robert Schumann): A magical voyage through poetry and song, recognized as one of history’s finest expressions of love.
• Violin Sonata: Dramatic Virtuosity (César Franck): Originally a wedding gift, this masterpiece captivates with its emotional weight and legendary technical brilliance.

The Performers: Chamber Music Excellence

This exceptional evening features three distinguished performers bringing incredible depth to these cornerstone works. WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods has curated this powerful program, selecting pieces that reflect the mission of the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries to celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and high strategy.Collaborating for this event are pianist Alla Voskoboynikova, mezzo-soprano Benedetta Orsi, and Hannah Ji, the assistant concertmaster for the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO).

Thematic Connection: Strategic Romance

Just as a Grandmaster anticipates a rival's move, Schumann and Franck navigated the complex structures of musical theory to evoke raw human emotion. This program highlights the "strategy of the heart," where precise composition meets the boundless passion of the Romantic era, all set within the world's premier destination for chess culture.

Venue, Tickets, and Full Schedule

Experience this concert surrounded by our incredible permanent and rotating art exhibitions and history exhibits.

Full Evening Schedule:

• 5:30 PM: Doors Open (Cash bar available)
• 6:00 PM: Artist Talk with WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods
• 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert Performance

Details:

• Venue: World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries
• Tickets: $25 General Admission, $20 WCHOF Members.
• Note: Each ticket includes one complimentary drink ticket.

Seating is extremely limited for this intimate performance held within one of the current galleries, offering a rare, up-close listening experience.

Can’t make it to the concert? Be sure to watch the livestream on the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ YouTube channel.

The World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF) is excited to offer its members a limited number of Season Ticket packages for the 2026 WCHOF Music Series season! Season Ticket holders may share their tickets with family and friends. Season Ticket holders and their guests will also enjoy exclusive amenities:

• Early entry at 5:00 p.m. (regular entry at 5:30 p.m.)
• 20% discount at Q Boutique and early access to concert merchandise
• Reserved priority seats for both the artist talk (6:00 p.m.) and concert (7:00 p.m.)
• Complimentary refreshments during the concert

Purchase Season Tickets Now!