Exploring new repertoire written for the ensemble by U-M alumnus James Lee III.

New York Philharmonic principal clarinetist Anthony McGill joins the Isidore String Quartet for this exciting program of chamber music. McGill returns for his first appearance since his 2019 concert with the Takács Quartet, and the Isidore String Quartet returns after its highly successful UMS debut in March 2024. In addition to Lee’s new piece, together they’ll perform two beloved clarinet quintets by Johannes Brahms and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Lee’s new clarinet quintet, Humanity’s Essential Gems, had its world premiere in December 2025, and Lee describes it as “explor[ing] what truly matters beyond basic survival, focusing on deeper human needs like connection, community, and art.”

PROGRAM
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart String Quartet in D Major, K. 575
James Lee III Humanity’s Essential Gems
Johannes Brahms Clarinet Quintet in b minor, Op. 115