Beyond the Notes

July 31 & August 1

40 Stow Street | gobeyondthenotes.com

Performing live from The Umbrella Arts Center, violinist and Beyond the Notes Founding Artistic Director Sarah Whitney is back for her first full form, in-person concerts since the pandemic began.

What is Beyond the Notes?

Beyond the Notes is a unique concert experience like no other. 

Started eight years ago by Concord-native Sarah Whitney, this interactive concert experience changes perceptions of traditional classical concerts and deepens the connection between audience and performer. 

In addition to presenting some of today’s most sought after musicians, Beyond the Notes invites audience members to participate in the concert by submitting written questions to be answered live onstage by the performers. 

Joined by NYC-based cellist Ani Kalayjian, the two performers take the audience on an unforgettable journey, presenting an eclectic program of solos and duos that highlights the works of Black composers. The program also features a unique collaboration with experimental animator Sarah E. Jenkins, one of the many artists represented in The Umbrella Arts Center gallery show, Dazzleship. 

20% of all proceeds are donated to CLASP, a national, nonpartisan, anti-poverty nonprofit advancing policy solutions for low-income people. CLASP develops practical yet visionary strategies for reducing poverty, promoting economic opportunity and addressing barriers faced by people of color.

Concert details/COVID regulations

Sat. July 31 @ 7:30pm - Indoors, Main Stage Theater 144

• tickets sold to 50% capacity

Sun. August 1 @ 3pm - Outdoors, Lawn at 40 Stow 

• under covered tent
• seating spaced out 3 feet apart in groups of 2

What are audience members saying about Beyond the Notes?

“Bold … edgy … totally engaging! Not to be missed!”

“An immersive experience ... fully embraces beyond the music!”

“Beyond the Notes is an unforgettable evening that expertly combines high artistic values with charm and personality!

Sarah’s programming draws everyone in from the get go, and the evening flies by from there. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!” — Hilary Field Respass (Boston University Tanglewood Institute)