In addition to continuing to perform in concerts as a violist, Thompson has served as artistic director for 18 years
The Boston Chamber Music Society (BCMS) has announced that its artistic director, violist Marcus Thompson, will retire at the end of its 44th season in June 2027. He began the role in the 2009–2010 season, having performed in every concert season with the organisation since its inception in 1982.
Among his accomplishments, Thompson oversaw the creation of the BCMS Commissioning Club to support new works for chamber music ensembles, as well as the introduction of new core members and innovations in repertoire. The 2025–2026 season also saw the highest ticket income in the organisation’s history, and individual patrons’ contributions to the society have increased by 40 per cent since 2016.
‘The sense of family and community at BCMS is one of the great gifts Marcus leaves us,’ said BCMS musician Jennifer Frautschi. ‘He has a wonderful ability to bring people together and make them feel valued.’
In an open letter announcing his retirement, Thompson expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the BCMS community:
‘I can truly say, especially in recent years, that during my time as Artistic Director, I have never seen more generosity or felt more affection from you and my colleagues in support of our mission and purpose.
‘That support has made possible our continuation and thriving through difficult times to champion music of the past, of our time, and of the future. Thank you very much for that and for your appreciation of our artistry.’
Thompson will continue to perform in BCMS concerts, in addition to his teaching roles at the New England Conservatory and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
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