Our History
The Atlanta Chamber Players (ACP) have been captivating audiences for nearly five decades with their diverse repertoire, which includes traditional masterpieces and contemporary classics from living American composers. In addition to their regular season concerts, ACP also engages in artistic, educational, and outreach programs, as well as touring residencies and appearances on television and radio broadcasts. Their recordings have received high acclaim, showcasing their excellence in performing contemporary and salon works. ACP is dedicated to new compositions and living composers, and their work has left an indelible mark on the world of chamber music.
Timeline
1976
Atlanta Chamber Players Established
The Atlanta Chamber Players (ACP) are established by pianist Paula Peace and flutist Melanie Cramer.
1979
Participates in C. Michael Paul Chamber Music Residencies Program
ACP becomes one of the first ensembles to participate in Chamber Music America’s C. Michael Paul Chamber Music Residencies Program.
1982
Candler Ensemble in Residence
From 1982 to 1987, ACP serves as the Candler Ensemble in Residence at Emory University.
1990
Affiliates with Georgia State Univ. School of Music
From 1990 to 2006, ACP affiliates with Georgia State University’s School of Music, presenting concerts, lectures, and master classes.
1996
Feature on NPR’s Performance Today
ACP is featured twice on NPR’s Performance Today during live international broadcasts from Spivey Hall during the Summer Olympics in Atlanta.
Residency at Kennesaw State University
From 1996 to 2003, ACP holds residencies at Kennesaw State University.
1998
Records a Series for Georgia’s Peach State Public Radio Network
ACP records a series of eight hour-long live radio programs broadcast throughout Georgia’s Peach State Public Radio Network.
2006
“Best of 2005 in Classical Music” & Phoenix Award Winner
ACP is named “Best of 2005 in Classical Music” by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and receives the Phoenix Award from Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin for their contributions to the arts.
Celebrates its 30th Anniversary Season with a European Concert Tour
ACP celebrates its 30th Anniversary Season with a European concert tour and the premiere performances of John Harbison’s Songs America Loves to Sing.
2009
Launch the “Rapido! A 14-day Composition Contest”
ACP collaborates with the Antinori Foundation to launch the “Rapido! A 14-day Composition Contest” to promote new chamber compositions in the Southeast.
2010
Rapido! Expands to 29 States
Rapido! expands to 29 states, with partner ensembles in Boston and Chicago, and premieres John Elmquist’s winning composition, “Junk Shot.”
2012
Performs at the International Chamber Music Festival
ACP performs at the International Chamber Music Festival of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, including the world premiere of Michael Kurth’s “Alallal.”
2014
New Artistic Director
Founding Artistic Director Paula Peace retires, and pianist Elizabeth Pridgen succeeds her as Artistic Director.
Wins the American Prize for Chamber Music Performance
ACP wins the American Prize for Chamber Music Performance, gaining recognition for their outstanding performances.
2019
Returns to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
ACP returns to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, for two distinct performances.