A unique collaboration of chamber music and curated wine pairings
Door County, Wis. (May 1, 2026) —Midsummer’s Music invites audiences to experience an afternoon of sensory delight at Notes & Vintages: Music for Cello & Piano Paired with Wine, taking place Sunday, May 17 at 3:00 PM at MUSE in Sturgeon Bay.
Experience an afternoon designed to delight all the senses. Cellist Jesse Nummelin and pianist Rie Tanaka bring this program to life with music by Scarlatti, Mel Bonis, Cécile Chaminade, and Felix Mendelssohn, each thoughtfully paired with three standout wines selected by Rian Hill of Left Bank Wine & Spirits. Guests will enjoy a progression from sparkling to white to red, with each pour reflecting the mood and character of the music. Paired with delicious bites from Mojo Restaurant Group, this welcoming and intimate experience is designed to be savored—perfect for music lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a unique way to spend a spring afternoon.
This intimate event features husband-and-wife duo of cellist Jesse Nummelin, from the Griffon String Quartet, and pianist Rie Tanaka. Together, they bring warmth, artistry, and deep musical connection to this thoughtfully curated program.
Nummelin is a versatile and expressive cellist who performs widely as a chamber musician and soloist throughout the Midwest and beyond. As a member of the Griffon String Quartet, he plays a central role in Midsummer’s Music’s performances and community engagement initiatives, bringing live music into schools, community spaces, and intimate venues across the region. Known for his rich tone and engaging stage presence, he is equally at home performing masterworks of the classical repertoire and exploring new and collaborative programming.
Tanaka is an accomplished pianist with an international performance career, recognized for her sensitivity, clarity, and expressive depth. She has appeared as both a soloist and collaborative artist in a wide range of repertoire, and is particularly admired for her nuanced interpretations and musical storytelling. In addition to her performing career, she is a dedicated educator who brings insight and artistry to every performance.
Enhancing the experience is Rian Hill, a Door County–based wine professional with more than two decades of experience in hospitality and sales. He manages operations for Left Bank Wine & Spirits across the Door Peninsula and has built a reputation for thoughtful curation, genuine expertise, and a deep passion for connecting people with the right bottle. A former General Manager of acclaimed Chicago restaurants Blackbird and North Pond, Hill brings a chef’s-table sensibility to wine pairing, making this a rare opportunity to explore wine in a highly intentional and engaging way.
Known for its innovative programming and intimate concert experiences, Midsummer’s Music continues to expand the possibilities of chamber music presentation through collaborations like Notes & Vintages. This unique event offers audiences a rare opportunity to explore the intersection of music and wine in a setting that is both sophisticated and approachable.
Tickets are $50 and include the concert, wine pairings, and light bites by Mojo Restaurant Group.
Seating is limited.
For tickets and information, visit www.midsummersmusic.com or call 920-854-7088.
An experience in every note.
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