June 2, 2025

Charles Wadsworth, Chamber Music Pioneer, Passes Away

News Summary

Charles Wadsworth, the founding artistic director of chamber music for Spoleto Festival USA, has died at 96, leaving a notable legacy in the music world. His dedication to the chamber music genre and efforts to make it more accessible were highlighted during tributes at recent performances. Wadsworth significantly impacted the festival scene and nurtured upcoming artists throughout his extensive career, earning many accolades including induction into the American Classical Music Hall of Fame.

New York City – Charles Wadsworth, the founding artistic director of chamber music for Spoleto Festival USA, has passed away at the age of 96. Wadsworth died in New York City, leaving behind a rich legacy in the field of chamber music.

Wadsworth was known for his dedication to expanding the populist appeal of chamber music across various platforms and regions. The impact of his work was highlighted during a recent performance, where Chamber Music Director Paul Wiancko dedicated the rendition of Schubert’s Piano Trio No. 2 to Wadsworth. Wiancko commended Wadsworth’s unique hosting style, his trust in artists, and his willingness to embrace artistic risks throughout his career.

A prominent figure at the Spoleto Festival USA for half a century, Wadsworth retired in 2009 but left an indelible mark with his contributions. He was instrumental in establishing the festival’s twice-daily chamber music concerts, which have become a staple of the event, significantly enhancing its cultural footprint. His commitment to the arts was further evidenced through his role in launching the chamber music series at the Festival dei Due Mondi in Italy in 1960 and initiating the Charleston series in 1977.

Wadsworth was also a founding artistic director of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, serving from 1969 to 1989. His efforts not only advanced the art form but also provided a platform for numerous emerging artists, including well-known names such as Richard Goode, Yo-Yo Ma, and Jessye Norman. Over his lifetime, he commissioned more than 65 new chamber music works from various notable composers, further contributing to the genre’s evolution.

Born in rural Georgia, Wadsworth’s formal education included attendance at the University of Georgia and The Juilliard School. His career trajectory changed when he was invited by composer Gian Carlo Menotti to create a chamber music series for the Festival dei Due Mondi, which marked the beginning of his significant contributions to the arts.

Wadsworth’s performances extended beyond festivals; he had the unique honor of performing at the White House for five U.S. Presidents, including Kennedy, Nixon, Ford, Carter, and Reagan. Additionally, his ‘Wadsworth and Friends’ events cleverly combined lectures with concerts, providing audiences with enriching experiences. He also annually held performances at the Charles Wadsworth Auditorium in Newnan, Georgia.

Throughout his life, Wadsworth received numerous accolades, such as the Handel Medallion and the Order of the Palmetto, recognizing his significant contributions to the musical landscape. In 2012, he was inducted into the American Classical Music Hall of Fame. His last performance took place at the Dock Street Theatre in 2013, marking the end of a distinguished performance career.

He is survived by his wife, Susan, their children, Rebecca, Beryl, and David, as well as their grandchildren. The Spoleto Festival USA, which spans 17 days and draws art enthusiasts from all over, plays a pivotal role in the local economy, contributing approximately $29.4 million annually. Recognized for its diverse offerings and world premieres across various artistic disciplines, the festival continues to honor Wadsworth’s vision and dedication while fostering a vibrant musical community.

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Charles Wadsworth, Renowned Chamber Musician, Passes Away

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