The Guardian
International Arts
Coverage
International coverage of the ensemble's approach to programming and performance.
The Guardian
Press & Booking
Grammy-nominated. Praised internationally. Based in Portland.
Press materials, artist biography, programming options, and booking contact for presenters and media.
Quick contacts
General / Booking
info@palaverstrings.org
Location
Portland, Maine · Available nationally
Recognition
Grammy-nominated · Carnegie Hall collaborator
Founded
2014 · Season 12
In the Press
What they're saying.
Palaver has been covered by international music and arts press since its first national touring season.
Gramophone
Classical Music
Coverage
Coverage in the world's leading classical music magazine, highlighting Palaver's distinctive approach to programming and community engagement.
GramophoneBoston Globe
Daily Newspaper
Coverage
Coverage from one of the Northeast's most prominent daily newspapers.
Boston GlobeMusical America
Classical Trade Press
Coverage
Coverage in the leading trade publication for classical music professionals and presenters.
Musical AmericaWBUR
Public Radio, Boston
Coverage
Radio coverage and features from Boston's premier NPR affiliate.
WBURThe Arts Desk
Arts Criticism
Coverage
Critical coverage from The Arts Desk, one of the UK's leading arts publications.
The Arts Desk
Artist Biography
About Palaver Strings
Palaver Strings is a Grammy-nominated musician-led string chamber ensemble based in Portland, Maine. Founded in 2014, the ensemble operates without a conductor — each musician is an equal voice in the musical conversation, the artistic direction, and the organization's leadership.
The word "palaver" originates from the West African tradition of the palaver hut — a communal space where people gather to resolve disagreements, share knowledge, and build consensus. Palaver Strings was built on that idea: that music-making and community-building are the same practice.
The ensemble has performed at Carnegie Hall, toured nationally, and received international critical attention from The Guardian, Gramophone, Boston Globe, Musical America, WBUR, The Arts Desk, Classical Music Magazine, and Maine Public Radio. In 2022, their album A Change is Gonna Come received a Grammy nomination for Best Chamber Music/Small Ensemble Performance.
Palaver Strings also operates the Palaver Music Center (PMC), a community music school offering five programs for ages 0 through 12+ in Portland — taught by the same professional musicians who perform nationally. PMC emphasizes radical access: sliding-scale tuition, financial aid for all families, and programs embedded in community partner sites throughout the city.
Media inquiries: info@palaverstrings.org
Programming
Season 12 / Current
Season 11 / 2022–23
Season 10 / 2021–22
What Palaver brings to your stage.
Each season's programming explores a distinct theme through a curated combination of repertoire from across genres and eras. Below is a sample of recent programs.
Current Programming
Contact Palaver directly for current season programming details, technical rider, and availability. We are happy to tailor programs for specific presenter contexts.
A Change is Gonna Come
Grammy-nominated programming combining Sam Cooke, Nina Simone, Joni Mitchell, and Dvořák — built on the argument that these repertoires belong in the same conversation. Received national critical attention.
Ready or Not
A program shaped by the conditions of the pandemic — examining uncertainty, resilience, and the music made in the absence of an audience. Premiered to critical acclaim.
Press Photos
High-resolution photography.
Available for press use. Credit the photographer when listed. Download the full gallery from our photo archive.
For Presenters
Book Palaver Strings.
Palaver Strings tours nationally and is available for concert series, festivals, residencies, and community engagements. The ensemble travels well: no conductor, tight logistics, and programming that has been designed for audiences who don't yet know they love chamber music.
National touring
Available for presenter engagements across the country. Venue requirements and technical rider available on request.
Conductor-free format
No podium, no conductor. Six musicians, equal voices. A different relationship to the stage and the audience.
Community programming
Palaver's PMC programs — Lullaby Project, Lifesongs, school residencies — can accompany or anchor a presenter engagement.
Grammy-nominated
Nominated for Best Chamber Music/Small Ensemble Performance. International critical coverage across print, broadcast, and digital.
Get in touch
Booking inquiries, fees, technical riders, and availability — reach out directly.
info@palaverstrings.orgStay in touch.
New recordings, upcoming tours, and community projects — direct to your inbox.