This summer, acclaimed clarinetist Carol McGonnell will grace the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival stage, bringing her distinctive artistry to two captivating performances. Known for her expressive interpretations and fearless exploration of contemporary repertoire, McGonnell’s return to Santa Fe promises to be a highlight of the season.

On August 13, 2025, McGonnell will perform in Marc Neikrug’s Through Roses, a powerful chamber work that intertwines music with monologue to narrate the story of a Holocaust survivor. The performance features distinguished artists: violinist Martin Beaver, violist Steven Tenenbom, cellist Felix Fan, flutist Tara Helen O’Connor, oboist Frank Rosenwein, percussionist Colin Currie, and actor/director John Rubinstein. This collaboration promises to create a profound and moving experience.

Additionally, McGonnell will participate in a performance of Bartók‘s Benny Goodman–commissioned Contrasts, which, true to its name, contrasts (captivatingly) the sonorities of its three instruments, including violinist Ida Kavafian and pianist Soyeon Kate Lee. Known for its intricate interplay and rhythmic vitality, this piece will be showcased at the Lensic Performing Arts Center in Santa Fe.

Dublin-born Carol McGonnell has been praised by The New York Times as “an extraordinary clarinetist” and described by the Los Angeles Times as “elastic, exacting, and stupendous.” Her career includes performances with leading orchestras and ensembles around the world, and she is a committed educator on the faculty of The Juilliard School.

As a champion of contemporary music, McGonnell has played a key role in commissioning over 100 new works, ranging from solo pieces to clarinet concertos. She is a founding member of the Argento Chamber Ensemble and has collaborated with groups such as the JACK Quartet, premiering innovative compositions that push the boundaries of classical music.

Tickets for the Festival’s 2025 season are on sale now. Explore our 2025 calendar here, and purchase your tickets either online or through our Box Office at 505-982-1890.