Puddingstone

Join us this spring for two special Musical Salons that explore human connection and the power of music and art to bring us together.

On March 8, we present From Salon to Tango, an intimate evening tracing a journey from the elegance of the Baroque salon to the passion of the tango. Harpist Amanda Romano and flutist Clint Foreman will share a colorful program of music by Bach, Rossini, Rochester Young, Persichetti, and Piazzolla, moving from poised, conversational chamber works to rhythmically charged, dance‑inspired pieces. Together, they reveal how composers across centuries have played with style, dance, and drama, and how the seemingly refined world of the salon leads naturally to the heat and pulse of tango.

We’re thrilled to partner with the beloved Jamestown Arts Center for a beautiful afternoon of music and dance in their creative halls on March 14th. Join us for a very special musical salon with Grammy-winning Canadian cellist Arlen Hlusko, returning after last year’s sold-out performance at Rough Point: Folk, Bach, and Beyond is a solo recital program that asks how music can sustain connection, courage, and hope, foregrounding the shared humanity at the heart of listening together. Throughout the afternoon, dance in selected pieces will be performed by Emily Jerant Hendrickson, allowing movement and music to converse and giving physical shape to the theme of the Musical Salon.

On April 15, we turn to a different kind of journey with This Love Between Us, inspired by Reena Esmail’s powerful meditation on connection. “Our love, our human connection, goes back so far in time. It is our very foundation. To recognize ourselves in one another is truly to remember that connection. We may squabble, but ultimately — we survive together. Or not at all.” Esmail’s words shape a program that looks at love in its many forms: motherly tenderness (Brahms’ Sacred Lullaby), yearning for connection (Bridge’s Three Songs), enduring love across time (Leilehua Lanzilotti’s of moments), longing, loss, and the “ray of eternal love” (Clara Schumann’s Six Lieder), intimate dialogue (Robert Schumann’s Adagio and Allegro), the desolation of separation (Schubert’s Shepherd on the Rock), and the beauty and essentiality of human connection (Esmail’s This Love Between Us).

The performers for April 15 are an exceptional trio: Katharine Dain, soprano; Caitlin Lynch, viola; and Ieva Jokubaviciute, piano. Dutch‑based soprano Katharine Dain brings a distinctly European perspective and a richly acclaimed career to this program, known for her nuanced, intelligent interpretations and deep affinity for both song and contemporary repertoire. Together with violist Caitlin Lynch and pianist Ieva Jokubaviciute, she will weave a portrait of love and connection in music that is intimate, searching, and profoundly human.

The music is intertwined with texts by poets across centuries and cultures, including Kabir, Friedrich Rückert, Heinrich Heine, Percy Bysshe Shelley, Edna St. Vincent Millay, and Wilhelm Müller. In the words of Leilehua Lanzilotti, “these moments can reveal love: joyful, enduring, always.”

We hope you’ll join us this season as our Musical Salons move from salon to tango, and from individual stories to a larger reflection on the love and connection that bind us all.

The Fall 2025 season at Puddingstone has been nothing short of transformative and magnificent. These past few months have seen our community explore new musical styles as well as new platforms of creative expression and sharing it with you, our wonderful and supportive audience, has been the most beautiful experience. 

When Calum Graham was first introduced to us we knew that we had to find a space for his artistry in the series. Graham started off the season on August 9th with a performance that offered rich soundscapes and incredible attention to detail in the beautiful setting of Roughpoint Mansion. The night was also highlighted by a dance performance from Katie Moorhead and choreography by Deana Gerde that was synergistic with Graham’s atmospheric music. Musical surprise guest Brenda Bennet added a vocal highlight with her famous and powerful alto voice. Graham’s healing energy propelled our season into the next installment in our fall lineup. 

On September 7th we hosted the incomparable Lun Li. Li is a dynamic and extremely talented violinist whose special project “A Long Walk Through The Night” was an exquisite pairing to the aesthetics of Belmont Chapel and the beloved artistry of Alastair Dacey, whose paintings and insight to his creative process was a thrilling look into the mind of a visionary.

On September 28th, Puddingstone began a two part series called “Jazz and Shakespeare.” Inspired by a long standing vision from founder Clemens Teufel, J&S saw the unique pairing of world class jazz music with Shakespearean readings by Jay Bragan and David Chrzanowski. The first concert took place at Provence Sur Mer located in Newport’s historic Washington Square and featured a piano duo concert from New York City’s own Randy Ingram and Aubrey Johnson. Ingram and Johnson treated the crowd to a delightful selection of compositions from their 2022 album together entitled “Play Favorites” while Bragan led everyone through an elegant journey pulled from the story of Shakespeare’s mystical fantasy epic “Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

The Jazz and Shakespeare series continued the following weekend when we hosted the Nick Finzer Quartet. Taking place at Rough Point mansion, the former residence of local historical figure and famous jazz lover Doris Duke, Finzer’s mastery of swing was on full display as he and his incredible band journeyed through an invigorating set of originals and tributes to Finzer’s idol, trombone legend JJ Johnson. For this second installment, Bragan and (other actor name) drew from Shakespearean sonnets and plays like As You Like It to perfectly blend with the mood and ambience of a memorable evening.

Closing out the Fall 2025 salon series was another magical night at Rough Point with “Romantic Entwined.” This program featured pianist Audrey Vardanega and violinist Geneva Lewis. Bookended by another collection of visual artist Alastair Dacey and his beautiful oil paintings, the two musicians played works from Romantic composers such as Brahms, Schubert, and Schuman. With nothing but trust and open ears from the audience, the soothing and passionate sounds created by these incredible instrumentalists combined with the picturesque setting of one of Bellevue Avenues most wondrous properties was unforgettable. 

As we head into the Holiday Soiree, our final concert of 2025, we just want to express our most sincere appreciation for everyone who has made these past few months successful. Whether you were an artist, a patron, a sponsor, a volunteer, or just a music loving supporter, you have been integral in making this fall season a reality and we couldn’t have done it without you. We are incredibly excited to reveal our 2026 programming to you shortly and look forward to seeing you at a concert again soon. 

From June 24 to 28, the inaugural Puddingstone Music Festival transformed Newport into a vibrant hub of world-class artistry, drawing distinguished musicians, enthusiastic local audiences, and filling some of the city’s most beautiful venues with five days of exhilarating music-making and creative collaboration.

The journey began at the historic Redwood Library, where our “Contrasts” concert set the tone for the week. In the intimate Harris Room, festival founder Clemens Teufel welcomed guests with a luminous performance of Schumann’s Four Piano Pieces, Op. 32. Boston Symphony clarinetist Chris El Chico, joined by pianist Xiaopei Xu, gave a spectacular reading of Brahms’ Second Clarinet Sonata, later joined by Ukrainian soprano Olha Abakumova for an evocative interpretation of Schubert’s beloved Shepherd on the Rock. Festival Co-Chair Angela Kim introduced audiences to new horizons with Xavier Beteta’s Preludios de la Noche (2024), weaving the contemporary with the classic. The evening concluded with a rousing interpretation of Bartók’s Contrasts, which brought the audience to its feet in a standing ovation.

One of the week’s highlights was an open rehearsal at Provence Sur Mer—a thoughtfully restored former rectory beside the Jane Pickens Theater. This rare peek behind the curtain offered the public the chance to witness firsthand the artistry and teamwork that define Puddingstone’s performances. The following day, in a public podcast recording, co-chairs Clemens Teufel and Angela Kim reflected on the festival’s founding spirit, its future, and the deeper philosophical questions that inspire their musical journey.

The festival’s next concert unfolded at the iconic Rough Point, where audiences were treated to Beethoven’s majestic Archduke Trio, Mozart’s elegant E minor Violin Sonata, and a contemporary highlight: Dan Van Hassel’s Sonata for Violin and Piano. The composer himself introduced the work, sharing engaging anecdotes about its creation and process.

The grand finale took place in the historic halls of Newport’s Colony House. The first half celebrated piano and percussion repertoire, brought vividly to life by Angela Kim and her husband, percussionist Andre Sonner. Staying true to Puddingstone’s commitment to multidisciplinary performance, this segment was elevated by a captivating dance performance from Colin Stilwell and Katie Moorhead. The festival’s final notes included a vibrant performance of Debussy’s Violin Sonata, before coming full circle with Schumann’s Piano Quintet—a fitting bookend to a week that opened and closed with the expressive music of one of the masters of the romantic era.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors and partners whose generosity made this festival possible: Le Bec Sucré, FiberSprung, Luca Music, Bow Bar, Newport Restoration Foundation, Redwood Library, Provence Sur Mer, and the Newport Historical Society. Special thanks to our donors, supporters, and above all, our audience members—your passion and presence brought our vision to life and ensured a resounding success for this inaugural year.

Here’s to more music, more collaboration, and the ever-growing Puddingstone community—see you again soon!

We are excited to announce the launch of our first Music Festival, featuring ten acclaimed artists in three concerts across Newport. The festival begins at the historic Redwood Library, continues at Rough Point, and concludes with a grand finale at the Colony House. After the final concert, join us for a special reception at Provence Sur Mer.

Click here to learn more about the program, including details about our podcast, discussion sessions, and open rehearsal opportunities.

Here is the latest press release on the upcoming concert:

CELLI A DEUX

A magical afternoon at Belmont Chapel: "Très Doux" Concert

On Sunday, March 9, 2025, the beautifully restored Belmont Chapel in Newport, RI, was filled with the enchanting sounds of the Sheffield Chamber Players as they presented their captivating concert, "Très Doux." This event marked another highlight in the Puddingstone Music series, bringing together music lovers for an unforgettable afternoon of classical elegance and impressionistic beauty.

The concert featured two iconic string quartets: Beethoven's String Quartet No. 5 in A Major and Maurice Ravel's String Quartet in F Major. The Sheffield Chamber Players delivered a masterful performance, showcasing the early brilliance of these two legendary composers. 

The intimate setting of Belmont Chapel added to the magic of the evening, with its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere creating a perfect backdrop for the music. 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the talented musicians of the Sheffield Chamber Players for their incredible performance. Their dedication to their craft is truly inspiring, and we feel honored to have had them as part of our Puddingstone Music series.

Special thanks also go to the Bow Bar for providing delightful drinks and refreshments, which added to the warmth and hospitality of the event. Their contribution helped create a welcoming environment where everyone could relax and enjoy the music.

If you missed this concert, be sure to mark your calendars for future Puddingstone events. We look forward to continuing to bring you exceptional music in unique and beautiful settings.

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Thank you, Psychopomp Piano Ensemble for an incredible performance with a colorful and expressive program at the beautiful Newport Art Museum!

A Memorable First Family Concert: A Celebration of Music, Fun, and Togetherness

This past August, we hosted our very first family concert, and it was nothing short of magical! From the lively performances to the unexpected moments of joy, the event brought our community together in ways we will never forget.

Our organization’s founder, Clemens Teufel, took the stage at the piano, sharing his musical talent with everyone. He was joined by beloved master artist and entertainer, Colescott Rubin, who wowed the crowd with his unique combination of skills—playing the bass, tuba, and even riding a unicycle as he effortlessly juggled tunes (and more). Completing the trio was the incredible Ears of Steel, John Lindsay, on the saxophone, whose energetic performance had us all tapping our feet and swaying to the rhythm. It was a show like no other for both us and the audience, filled with laughter, amazement, and quite a few “wow” moments.

The concert wasn't just about the performers, though—it was about everyone who came to join in the fun!

Families of all ages sang, danced, and even breezed through the music with joy. This afternoon was a beautiful reminder of how music, art, and a little bit of whimsy can bring people together and create lasting memories.

As the show came to a close, it was clear that this event was just the beginning of our engagement with the community. We’re already looking forward to our next family concert in 2025 and can’t wait to share with you the ideas and musical delights we’ll have in store.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, and a special thank you to our talented performers who made this event so unforgettable. Here's to more music, fun, and family memories in the future!

Puddingstone Artist Retreat 2024

From October 25 to 27, a group of talented artists gathered at the picturesque Norman Bird Sanctuary for our inaugural Artist Retreat. This unique gathering included two pianists, a painter, a dancer, a writer/poet, and a bass player/composer, all united by a common purpose: to create art, share ideas, and inspire one another amidst the beauty and serenity of the Norman Bird Sanctuary.

The retreat was designed to inspire both artistic creation and meaningful discussions. As we enjoyed meals together—breakfasts filled with laughter and dinners rich with conversation—we found time to explore pressing themes such as funding for artists and the potential for cross-pollination among different art forms. These discussions highlighted the age-old challenges artists face while igniting a collective desire to seek innovative, particularly digital, solutions to these issues.

One of the memorable aspects of the retreat was the setting itself. The Norman Bird Sanctuary, with its lush landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, provided an ideal environment for creativity. During our hikes, particularly the trek to Hanging Rock, we immersed ourselves in the beauty of the outdoors, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors and sounds of nature. These experiences became an integral part of our artistic process, fueling our imaginations and reminding us of the importance of environment in creative work.

Throughout the retreat, the spirit of collaboration flourished. New works emerged from our interactions, including a song that was written and performed, several captivating paintings, evocative poetry readings, and an improvised dance performance that captured the essence of our shared experiences. Each artist brought their unique perspective and talent to the table, enriching the creative atmosphere and resulting in a vivid array of art forms. The fusion of different disciplines not only enhanced our individual practices but also fostered a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of art.

As the retreat drew to a close, we reflected on the remarkable outcomes of our time together. Everyone left feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and inspired—proof that the synergy of collaboration and nature can lead to profound artistic breakthroughs. The energy generated during our time at the sanctuary sparked ideas for future retreats, promising to build on this foundation of creativity and community.

The inaugural Artist Retreat at the Norman Bird Sanctuary was more than just a gathering; it was a transformative experience that celebrated the power of art and collaboration. As we look forward to next year, we carry with us not only the art we created but also a shared commitment to support one another in our artistic journeys. This retreat has laid the groundwork for an ongoing dialogue among artists, adding the idea of including the community in future endeavors and reminding us of the beauty that emerges when we come together to create, share, and inspire.

We had a wonderful afternoon at Provence Sur Mer, filled with music, paintings, pastries and joy.

The Sheffield Chamber Players, painter Oana Lauric and Bec Sucré delivered an exceptional experience for us all: Thank you for such a great time!

We also want to thank Provence Sur Mer for supporting this event in such a meaningful way.

Merci!