and led educational outreach projects throughout the South Rim in August 2014. COVID-19 pandemic and new headquarters During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chamber Music | OC's Pre-College Program successfully shifted to a virtual model that prompted the LA Times to write, "Gatherings or no gatherings, Chamber Music OC is keeping classical music going in Orange County." The pandemic also prompted the organization to formulate a new strategic plan that would enable the organization to self-produce innovative artistic content, invest in technology to expand organizational reach, scale its thriving Pre-College Program, and explore and implement new business models. On August 11, 2020, Chamber Music | OC purchased a 4,000-square-foot commercial property that was repurposed to help address these needs. The facility includes the 1,200-square-foot Weinstein Performance Space, a recording studio, rehearsal spaces, administrative offices, and various common areas. Upcoming 10-Year Anniversary Season To kick off its 10-year anniversary season, Chamber Music | OC announced that it was named a commissioning partner for the Kronos Quartet’s 50 for the Future project. This collaboration will bring members of the Quartet to Orange County to interact with participants of the Pre-College Program, and will also feature special performance collaborations with students and Chamber Music | OC principals. Other anniversary initiatives include a new concert series at the Weinstein Performance Space, new partnerships with major Southern California arts organizations, and a concert celebration at Walt Disney Concert Hall in July 2022. Chamber Music America After an extensive national search, Chamber Music America, the national network of ensemble music professionals, named Loucks as its new Chief Executive Officer effective September 1, 2021. The organization provides access to professional resources and benefits, professional development seminars, grants and awards, and a national conference hosted annually in New York City. The membership community is made up of thousands of artists, educators, managers, presenters, and organizations, and represent all fifty states. Loucks is tasked with providing leadership and strategic vision that will enable the organization to achieve its artistic, financial, and organizational goals. He also serves as an ex-officio member of the Board of Directors. Awards and recognition Loucks has been called "impeccable" by La Presse, Montreal; "a shining talent" by Völser Zeitung, Italy; and a pianist of “exhilarating polish, unity and engagement” by the Orange County Register, California. He has been featured in live performances on National Public Radio's Performance Today, CBC Radio 2, KUSC, WFMT, the Public Broadcasting Service,