Ten years ago a woman with exceptional foresight invited several friends to her home to discuss forming a classical music series. That woman, Joyce Engel, and her husband, George, were already leaders in the Winter Park community, giving time and energy to many of the causes and organizations that still enrich our lives. Joyce realized that the community was ready for a classical music series after attending a concert by the Bergmann Piano Duo. The Bergmann’s performance blew the socks off residents hungry for this type of music.

Thus Grand County began welcoming renowned artists from around the world. String quartets, woodwind and brass groups, pianists, guitarists, vocal groups and the Air Force Academy Band have all performed here. After each concert audiences are treated to a wine, cheese and dessert reception where they can meet the artists. The musicians love coming here for the intimate venue, enthusiasm of our appreciative audiences and surrounding natural beauty.

A volunteer board and residents work hard to support the concert series. However, it is the generosity of the business community, the Grand Foundation, East Grand Education Foundation, the Winter Park/Fraser Chamber and many individuals who truly make this classical concert series possible.

The concert series will be celebrating its 10th anniversary season. The Bergonzi String Quartet, an internationally known chamber group from Miami, performs on August 9. Fittingly, on August 23, the Bergmann Piano Duo from Canada will wrap up the season. Both concerts will be at the Church of the Eternal Hills at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the door and online at grand-countyconcertseries.org.