Chamber Music Columbus will emphasize the diversity in classical music during its 2006-07 season.

"We have two quintets with different solo instruments. We have a vocal group. We have a solo recital. And we have the local debut of a wind ensemble that should appeal to younger audiences and those in the African-American community," said Ivan Mueller, past president of the all-volunteer group.

The organization will build on a strong 2005-06 season: It drew one of its largest audiences ever for the Feb. 11 appearance by the Guarneri Quartet, and the Southern Theatre series has more than 300 subscribers, twice that of 10 years ago, Mueller said.

Master classes by several ensembles proved successful as well. Members of the Guarneri spent three hours with budding chamber players the day of their performance — an unusually generous gesture.

"I was with Arnold Steinhardt (first violinist)," Mueller said. "It was one of the great experiences of my life."

The organization has no overhead and functions lean and mean on an annual budget of about $140,000. Members contribute more than 25 percent of the income; plan, organize and run the events; and fill in wherever or whenever needed.

"I am always amazed by this group," Mueller said. "We’ve been in the black for 59 years."

bzuck@dispatch.com