Chandler Center for the Arts is excited to announce this year’s The Next Generation concert. On Saturday evening, May 16, five young classical musicians from high schools and homeschools across Vermont and New Hampshire will showcase their artistry, with some making their debuts on the Chandler stage. The concert begins at 7:00 PM and will also feature an ensemble performance with 16 students from the Upper Valley Music Center. A reception to greet the artists will follow the performance.

In 2007, to kick off Chandler’s centennial celebration, pianist Christopher O’Riley brought his acclaimed NPR Boston program From the Top to the Chandler stage, drawing enthusiastic audiences. Among the eight performing teenagers, only two were from the local area; the others came from Chicago, Pittsburgh, and New York. The format proved so appealing that Chandler created its own version, featuring young musicians from the region.

For this concert, the area’s top music teachers have recommended students whose accomplishments deserve special recognition. These performers have been selected through a competitive audition process.