We had the good fortune of connecting with Raymond Jacobs, whose growing LA-based classical chamber orchestra, Kontrapunktus, is set to debut its new 7-date concert season (click the website URL below for ticket information) on May 20th, and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Raymond, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I formed Kontrapunktus merely by accident. I was an aspiring filmmaker with writing abilities who decided to venture off into the literary world. But that journey through the literary world had a detour and that detour led me into this unexpected venture. I wasn’t prepared for what I was about to do and was incredibly naive. But as an entertainer, the applause endears you! And I realized I was producing entertainment that was providing the “escapism” I sought as a creator that was transformative. Not long thereafter I knew I had discovered something quite special that required my undying commitment.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Classical music is the pure essence of art given how subjective it is! Moreover, it’s cerebral and edifies our thought process on an emotional level. Its prowess is incomparable in comparison to other art forms, and it’s easily accessible. Kontrapunktus serves as an outlet that puts this theory into practice in a manner that is profound.

Because this precept in constant in the way I approach my duties, I’m looking to expand the boundaries in offering something different; something that no other symphony orchestra or chamber ensemble offers-compelling musical programs that leave an indelible mark.

So, rather than have a variety of usual standards to offer as most symphony orchestras do, I work with my artistic directors to form thematic productions based on the works of a single composer. What is more, I look to delve into the repertoire of that composer to unearth remarkable pieces of music that the classical world has long neglected. This season is a watershed moment that best exemplifies what I’m talking about. Our production this season will spotlight the music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach-a brilliant composer who is virtually ignored in classical circles in the United States only because he’s oftentimes dismissed as simply the son of the universally acclaimed Johann Sebastian Bach.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
People who visit the Los Angeles area for the first time typically want to visit the town that made Los Angeles famous in the first place-Hollywood. So a trip to Pink’s on La Brea for their world famous hot dogs is a must! That is then followed by a trip to Hollywood and Highland to experience the celebrated Walk of Fame stars and cemented tiles of the Sid Grauman Chinese Theatres bearing the hand and footprints of revered celebrities and movie stars from yesteryear.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My story wouldn’t be possible with the support of those people take time away from their day to attend the concerts I produce. So, in many respects, the growing fanbase of Kontrapunktus truly deserves recognition for what I do. But, also, I’d be remiss if I didn’t also acknowledge the invaluable support of the various civic and private charity foundations who support us.

Website: http://www.kontrapunktus.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/300YearsIntheMaking

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kontrapunktusbaroque3003

Image Credits
Veronika Reinert, David Andrade, Raymond Jacobs

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