Nov. 15, 2026
Faye Spanos Concert Hall, University of the Pacific (directions)
2:30 PM

About the Concert

Dr. Michael Spencer, treasured as a wonderful advocate for chamber music in Stockton, passed away in early 2026. He was past President and Vice President of FOCM, and was well known for the marvelous program notes that he provided to our audiences for close to 20 years. Dr. Spencer said on numerous occasions that his favorite chamber music ensemble was the Ying Quartet. They have performed on FOCM programs several times over the years and have graciously agreed to perform once more at this memorial concert.

The concert is free to attend, with no advance ticket required.  All are welcome to celebrate the memory of Dr. Spencer!

About the Artists

“The Ying Quartet came as close to the ideal as possible, delivering chamber music of astonishing, refreshing exaltation and exhilaration”
— The Los Angeles Times

The Ying Quartet says “Our mission has always been twofold: to make classical music a relevant and vital part of American culture in all its diversity, and to do so with the highest standards of artistic integrity.” This is the very heart of the four musicians who comprise the Ying Quartet: Janet Ying, violin, Robin Scott, violin, Phillip Ying, viola, and David Ying, cello.

The Quartet occupies a position of unique prominence in the classical music world, combining brilliantly communicative performances with a fearlessly imaginative view of chamber music in today’s world. Now in its third decade, the Ying Quartet has established itself as an ensemble of the highest musical qualifications. Their performances regularly take place in many of the world’s most important concert halls; at the same time, the Quartet’s belief that concert music can also be a meaningful part of everyday life has also drawn the foursome to perform in settings as diverse as the workplace, schools, juvenile prisons, and the White House.

Scheduled Program