Leading with Integrity.
About Galatea
Galatea Chamber Music was created with the purpose of sharing what chamber music truly is with east coast and surrounding communities. Our mission extends beyond performing chamber music concerts – we aim to make a profound impact in our community. In the weeks leading up to our concerts, our artists share the most intimate parts of ourselves with young musicians, seniors, and anyone who can benefit from the therapeutic value of chamber music. When they're not on stage, our exceptional artists excel in high-quality performances for house concerts, company parties, charity events, community gatherings, weddings and other occasions.
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The meaning behind the name
The name Galatea holds many meanings, but is notably the name of Neptune’s fourth closest inner moon, known for its eccentric orbit. Neptune is recognized as the planet of inspiration and compassion, embodying the ideals and aspirations of Galatea Chamber Music. The name Galatea is also a tribute to our King Neptune statue located here in Virginia Beach, that stands true as a symbol of love and respect for the abundance of natural beauty in our area. The ocean has inspired the founder, Dr. Johnathan Spence, since he moved here in the summer of 1998, the same year he discovered the magic of the violin.
Chamber music concerts
We are dedicated to curating an intentional concert experience for our audience. Through our eclectic and classical repertoire, we aim to inspire and enlighten each individual sitting before us. Our devoted musicians find inspiration in connecting with their community members and bringing the best of themselves to every performance.
We warmly invite you to join us for one or all of our invigorating live events! Your contribution is essential to support our mission. Help us bring more high-quality chamber music to the Hampton Roads area by making a donation today.
We warmly invite you to join us for one or all of our invigorating live events! Your contribution is essential to support our mission. Help us bring more high-quality chamber music to the Hampton Roads area by making a donation today.
Founder and Artistic Director
Dr. Johnathan Spence
“When I was 10 years old, right after my father had passed, I found his violin under his bed. The feeling I experienced can be described only as a divine calling. From then on, I knew that the only path to walk is the one where I have a violin in my hands.
My mother, Linda, a widow and mother to five children, didn’t let our family's financial struggles inhibit my chance at becoming the musician she knew I could be. Between the help of my mother, the church, and the community, I was gifted violin lessons through scholarships that allowed me to develop the skills needed to go all the way to attending university. Through this process, I gained lifelong mentors who introduced me to what chamber music truly is, which ignited my vision for creating Galatea Chamber Music. |
After moving back to Virginia Beach in 2017, I experienced the vicissitudes of life that created pillars of integrity and purpose. Setting intention through every piece, every program created, every person I come in contact with, and every note that I play, I strive to become the best version of myself and share it with the world around me. As composer George Frideric Handel once said, “I should be sorry if I only entertained them. I wish to make them better.” My true passion is chamber music as well as serving my community and I am always finding ways to intertwine the two.”
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“Chamber music holds the essence of life. The communication that occurs within the ensemble and with the audience is so intimate, demanding a sense of empathy that I don’t think I would have learned through anything else. Some of the most heartfelt music lies in the chamber music repertoire. Every time I have the opportunity to bring this music to life, it is truly a gift transcending through time, allowing us to experience more than pure emotion, but the art of music. The power this music holds brings the light into the world that I wish to see.”
How it began
One afternoon at the coffee shop where they first met in Virginia Beach, the idea for Galatea Chamber Music sparked between Johnathan and Nicolette. Galatea was created for the purpose of sharing the magic of what chamber music truly is with their community, while simultaneously creating a space of compassion and human connection.
Johnathan and Nicolette have two sons: Elliott Jay (3) and Leo Lucian (1). Johnathan is passionate about performing chamber music, serving his community, health and nutrition, swimming in the ocean, and time with his family. Nicolette helps manage Galatea and uses her creativity to assist with design and writing. She is also a current student of the International Human Design School and enjoys cooking, baking, reading, and creating art. Together their synergy creates the inspiration, passion, and integrity behind Galatea.
We would love to connect with you!
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© Galatea Chamber Music 2024