Capital City Concerts Announces Artistic Leadership Succession Rooted in Mentorship and Legacy
Jillian Reed and Tyler Emerson
Photo by Tasha Hurley Read more about the new leaders in this article from Seven Days: Classical Music ‘Power Couple’ to Lead Capital City Concerts |
After more than a quarter century of leadership, Capital City Concerts founder and Artistic Director, Vermont Grammy‑nominated flutist Karen Kevra, will pass the artistic leadership of the organization to husband-and-wife musicians Jillian Reed and Tyler Emerson at the conclusion of the 2025–2026 season.
The transition marks a deeply personal and meaningful continuation of artistic lineage: Reed is a former student of Kevra, whose own musical philosophy was shaped by her mentor, the legendary French flutist Louis Moyse. This succession reflects much more than an administrative change, but the continuation of a musical tradition — one mentor guiding the next generation, who in turn carries that vision forward. Founded by Kevra in 2000, Capital City Concerts has become a cultural cornerstone of central Vermont, presenting world‑class chamber music in an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. Under her leadership, the series built a reputation for artistic excellence, thoughtful programming, a deep commitment to community connection, and enduring, poignant relationships with beloved returning performers. Kevra’s performing career has included international performances, recordings, and teaching, and she has long been recognized for her connection to the French flute tradition through Louis Moyse, who was an inspiration and guiding light in the formative years of Capital City Concerts. In May 2025, Kevra was honored by the Vermont House of Representatives with House Resolution HCR 112 in recognition of her widespread artistic achievements and 26 years of leadership of Capital City Concerts. Kevra expressed her confidence in the new leadership: “Jillian and Tyler understand the spirit of Capital City Concerts. Both born and raised in Vermont, they have a strong connection to Vermont, love for Classical music. They are outstanding communicators, experienced administrators, and live and breathe the human connection that is at the heart of chamber music — values I inherited from Louis Moyse. Seeing that philosophy continue through them is profoundly moving.” Reed, an accomplished flutist and educator, performs at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, in the Hudson Valley of NY, and in Montpelier, closely connected to Capital City Concerts as a performer for several years. She teaches flute at Bard Conservatory Preparatory Division. Emerson is a highly regarded collaborative pianist, chamber musician, and music educator who teaches piano students of all ages. “I grew up in Montpelier, and thrived in the music community here - with the amazing access to music education with Karen Kevra as my flute teacher, youth orchestras, Montpelier High School, and music festivals, and with the exposure to truly breathtaking performances showcased at Capital City Concerts and other performing arts organizations here. It is an honor to return to my hometown as Co-Artistic Director of CCC” said Reed. Emerson added, “I am excited to meet, serve, and expand the concert-going community that CCC has cultivated in Montpelier. Jillian and I can’t wait to share our music with you all, welcome back past CCC performers, and invite our musical friends into the series. I grew up in Lyndonville, and, like Jillian, Vermont is my artistic home. I hope that our deep commitment to this place and to sharing the joy of music shines through in this next chapter CCC.” Kevra will conclude her tenure in June at the end of the 25–26 season, after which Reed and Emerson will assume artistic leadership for the 2026–2027 season and beyond. She will remain connected to the organization as a mentor and artistic advisor during the transition. She will continue teaching privately and at Middlebury College, and is engaged for upcoming performances in 2026 and beyond. She has plans to write a tone-based flute method book, as well as a cookbook, resume her Muse Mentors podcast, and continue to nurture her extensive gardens in Cornwall, Vermont, where she lives with her husband. |