Chamber Music Performance
About Spectrum Excellence in Chamber Music Since the 1980s
1980s

The Beginning

Founded in the mid-1980s when Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra string players gathered to read chamber music for fun. What began as informal sessions among colleagues evolved into something much more significant.

1990s

Public Debut

A memorable performance at an anniversary party at First Jefferson Unitarian Universalist Church (now All Peoples Church Unitarian Universalist) led to the creation of our chamber music series.

2000s

Growth & Recognition

Under the leadership of Dave Hermann, FWSO violist, the organization grew to become Fort Worth's premier chamber music series, establishing regular concerts and community partnerships.

2017

Leadership Transition

Dan Sigale became Co-Director alongside Dave Hermann, bringing fresh energy and vision while maintaining the organization's commitment to excellence.

2019

New Era

Dan Sigale became sole Executive Director, leading the organization into its next chapter with innovative programming and expanded community outreach.

2025

40th Anniversary

Celebrating four decades of musical excellence with our most ambitious season yet, featuring the four pillars of Spectrum programming.

Our Mission & Values

What Drives Our Musical Journey

Our Mission

To present professional chamber music performances featuring Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra musicians and guest artists, serving the Fort Worth community with musical excellence while making chamber music accessible to diverse audiences through innovative programming and community partnerships.

Artistic Excellence

Maintaining the highest standards of musical performance while featuring the exceptional talent of Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra musicians.

Community Engagement

Building bridges between professional musicians and diverse audiences through accessible programming and inclusive venues.

Innovation

Embracing new works by living composers while honoring the rich tradition of chamber music repertoire.

Accessibility

Ensuring that exceptional chamber music is available to everyone, regardless of economic circumstances or geographic location.

Tribute to Dave Hermann

Honoring Our Founding Director (1955-2024)

A Legacy of Dedication

We honor our former longtime director and FWSO violist Dave Hermann, who ran the organization almost single-handedly until his retirement in 2017. Dave passed away in 2024 at age 69, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of musical excellence and community service.

Without Dave's dedication, vision, and tireless work, there would be no Spectrum today. He transformed informal gatherings of musicians into a beloved community institution that has enriched the cultural life of Fort Worth for four decades.

His commitment to both artistic excellence and community accessibility established the foundation upon which all of our current programming rests. Dave's spirit continues to inspire our mission and guide our work as we enter our fifth decade of service.

Dave's Lasting Impact:

  • Established Spectrum as Fort Worth's premier chamber music series
  • Created lasting partnerships with community venues
  • Mentored countless musicians and music lovers
  • Built a foundation of artistic excellence and community service
  • Inspired the next generation of chamber music leadership

Organization Information

About Our Structure & Operations

501(c)3 Non-Profit

Spectrum Chamber Music Society is a 501(c)3 non-profit performing arts organization dedicated to bringing professional chamber music to the Fort Worth community and beyond.

Founded: Mid-1980s

Established when Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra musicians began gathering to perform chamber music, evolving into a cornerstone of Fort Worth's cultural community.

Professional Musicians

Featuring primarily Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra musicians, along with artist-faculty from local universities and other professional performers.

Multiple Venues

Performing at accessible venues throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, making chamber music available to diverse communities.

By the Numbers

Four Decades of Musical Impact

40+
Years of Excellence
Continuously serving the Fort Worth community since the 1980s
200+
Concerts Performed
Professional chamber music performances across our history
15,000+
Audience Members
Community members reached through our performances
50+
Professional Musicians
Artists who have performed with Spectrum over the years
4
Program Pillars
PRESENTS!, CONNECTS!, INSPIRES!, and DISCOVERS!
25+
Community Partners
Venues and organizations hosting our performances

Looking Forward

Our Vision for the Future

Building on Excellence

As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we look forward to the next chapter of Spectrum Chamber Music Society. Our four pillars - SPECTRUM PRESENTS!, SPECTRUM CONNECTS!, SPECTRUM INSPIRES!, and SPECTRUM DISCOVERS! - represent our commitment to serving our community in diverse and meaningful ways.

We will continue to feature the exceptional musicians of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra while expanding our partnerships with organizations that serve and strengthen our community. Through innovative programming, new works by living composers, and accessible performances throughout the Metroplex, we remain dedicated to making chamber music a vital part of Fort Worth's cultural landscape.

The future of Spectrum lies in our ability to honor our rich history while embracing new opportunities to connect with audiences, support artists, and serve our community through the transformative power of chamber music.