ProMusica Minnesota: Meet the Artists Behind the Music
ProMusica Minnesota stands as a beacon of artistic excellence in Southern Minnesota, offering world-class chamber music performances that both inspire and educate. At the heart of this organization are its exceptional artists, whose talents and dedication bring the music to life.
Bethel Balge: Founding Artistic Director
Pianist Bethel Balge, the visionary behind ProMusica Minnesota, has graced stages in Germany, including Frankfurt’s Alte Oper, and performed as a soloist with the Voronezh Philharmonic in Russia. Her accolades include the prestigious Louis B. Sudler Award in the Arts. Balge's commitment to chamber music led to the establishment of the Summit Avenue Music Series in 2016, which evolved into ProMusica Minnesota in 2020.
Featured Artists
Sarah Switzer – Viola
A Denver native, Sarah Switzer joined the Minnesota Orchestra in 2022 and served as acting assistant principal viola for the 2023-24 season.
Ben Odhner – Violin
Since 2017, Ben Odhner has been a vital part of the Minnesota Orchestra, transitioning from the second violins to the first violin section in 2022.
Matt Frischman – Double Bass
A graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music, Matt Frischman joined the Minnesota Orchestra in 1998 and served as Acting Co-Principal bass from 2012 to 2015.
Alan Snow – Violin
Alan Snow became Associate Concertmaster of the Minnesota Orchestra in 2022, following his tenure with the Omaha Symphony.
Marlea Simpson – Viola
Hailed as a "21-year-old wunderkind" by the Chicago Tribune in 2016, Marlea Simpson was appointed associate principal viola of the Minnesota Orchestra in 2024.
Maureen Nelson – Violin
Maureen Nelson made her solo debut with the Philadelphia Orchestra at 15 and is the founding first violinist of the internationally acclaimed Ensō String Quartet.
Past Legends
Susie Park – Violin
Sydney native Susie Park began playing violin at three and debuted at five, performing with every major Australian orchestra by 16. She now serves as the first associate concertmaster of the Minnesota Orchestra.
Rui Du – Violin
Rui Du joined the Minnesota Orchestra as assistant concertmaster in 2015, having previously held similar roles with the Baltimore Symphony and the Annapolis Symphony.
Tony Ross – Cello
Tony Ross has been a member of the Minnesota Orchestra since 1988 and assumed the principal cello post in 1991, performing numerous concertos and chamber works.
Silver Ainomäe – Cello
Born in Tallinn, Estonia, Silver Ainomäe is the Associate Principal Cellist of the Minnesota Orchestra, with previous principal roles in the Colorado Symphony and guest positions with several international orchestras.
Richard Belcher – Cello
New Zealand cellist Richard Belcher joined the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra in 2019 and is a founding member of the Grammy-nominated Enso String Quartet.
Pitnarry Shin – Cello
Praised for her tone and passion, Pitnarry Shin made her New York debut at Weill Hall, Carnegie, and has toured the U.S., Europe, and Korea. She rejoined the Minnesota Orchestra in 2012.
Gabriel Campos Zamora – Clarinet
A native of San José, Costa Rica, Gabriel Campos Zamora became principal clarinet of the Minnesota Orchestra in 2016, with previous roles in the Kansas City Symphony and guest positions in several U.S. symphonies.
Manny Laureano – Trumpet
Manny Laureano has been the principal trumpet for the Minnesota Orchestra since 1981 and served as co-artistic director of the Minnesota Youth Symphonies for 32 years.
Jenni Seo – Viola
Korean violist Jenni Seo, Assistant Principal Viola of the Minnesota Orchestra, is known for her rich sound and has performed in renowned venues like Carnegie Hall and Royal Albert Hall.
Jenny Haugen-Hesse – Soprano
Minnesota soprano Jenny Haugen performs with The Summit Avenue Music Series, ProMusica Minnesota, and The Minnesota Valley Chorale. She holds degrees from Bethany Lutheran College and The Boston Conservatory.
Vienna & Prague: Mozart & Dvořák
Maureen Nelson (violin), Richard Belcher (cello), and Bethel Balge (piano) present Mozart's Piano Trio in C Major, K. 548, and Dvořák's Piano Trio in F Minor, Op. 65.
Date: June 7, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Trinity Chapel, Bethany Lutheran College, Mankato, MN
ProMusica Festival: Young Artists' Concert
Celebrate the talents of emerging musicians in this free concert, with donations gratefully accepted.
Date: June 8, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: Trinity Chapel, Bethany Lutheran College, Mankato, MN
Join the Musical Journey
ProMusica Minnesota's dedication to chamber music excellence is evident in its roster of distinguished artists and compelling performances. Whether you're a seasoned concertgoer or new to classical music, ProMusica offers enriching experiences that resonate with all audiences
For tickets and more information, visit our website.
