Philadelphia Chamber Music Society Presents: Lyric Fest

History, music, wit, and invention meet in a one-of-a-kind evening with Groupmuse Nights Out, offering discounted access to Philadelphia Chamber Music Series' Lyric Fest. This imaginative program brings the brilliant and mischievous mind of America’s most famous polymath, Benjamin Franklin, to life through letters, narration, and song. Alongside vocal music that would have been heard in colonial America, the program features musical settings of Franklin’s Poor Richard’s Almanac, a world premiere by Philadelphia composer Melissa Dunphy, and a newly commissioned work by Pulitzer Prize–winning composer Jennifer Higdon, inspired by Franklin’s own words. Performed by an all-star cast—Jessica Beebe (soprano), Benjamin Wenzelberg (countertenor), Martin Bakari (tenor), Randall Scarlata (baritone), with Laura Ward at the piano and harpsichord and narration by Suzanne DuPlantis—the evening blends storytelling, history, and virtuosic singing into a lively portrait of the man behind the legend.

Start the night at 6:00 PM with a special pre-concert panel at the Athenaeum of Philadelphia, where Lyric Fest founder Suzanne DuPlantis joins composer-countertenor Benjamin Wenzelberg for a behind-the-scenes look at the music and ideas shaping the program. Then stroll over to the American Philosophical Society for the concert itself—complete with a free tasting as part of the social series.

With Groupmuse Nights Out discounted tickets, it’s a rare chance to experience a playful and illuminating musical journey through Franklin’s life, where colonial melodies, contemporary voices, and a dash of Enlightenment humor come together for an unforgettable night. 🎶

Children 5 and over are welcomed at PCMS concerts. Please read PCMS's age guidelines here.

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