LAUNCH: LASQ Seeks to Build Classical Music Presence in Cultural District

Franklin’s acclaimed chamber music tradition is striking a new chord. After LiveARTS, a long-running classical program resident at the First Universalist Society, formally disbanded months ago, many assumed its concerts had ended for good. But thanks to the passion of local musicians and supporters, the LiveARTS String Quartet, formerly an element of LiveARts, is tuning up once again—ready to bring paid world-class classical musicians back to Franklin and the region.

Their first concert is already on the calendar: Sunday, November 16, 3 p.m. at the Franklin Historical Museum, 80 West Central Street. Admission is free, but voluntary donations are encouraged to support future performances. And a GoFundMe page has begun to build momentum to fund a full season.

Professional violinist Donald Krishnaswami of Norfolk—longtime board member at LiveARTS—has joined forces with Franklin residents Jon Mitchell and David Burnham to revive the quartet and its signature chamber series. With help from local arts champions, including Randy LaRosa, Timothy Ayers, and Alan Earls, the team quickly secured a venue and seed funding.

Founded in 2001, LiveARTS earned a reputation as a hidden gem, presenting “Boston-caliber” performances at hometown prices. Now, the revived LiveARTS String Quartet aims to rekindle that same spirit—intimate concerts, exceptional musicianship, and the joy of sharing live music close to home.

A new movement is beginning for Franklin’s classical music scene—and this encore promises to be unforgettable, say supporters.