Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

The Arianna String Quartet is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences around the world for over two decades. The quartet was founded in 1992 by four musicians who shared a passion for chamber music and a desire to create a unique sound that would set them apart from other ensembles. The founding members of the Arianna String Quartet were violinists John McGrosso and David Gilham, violist Joanna Mendoza, and cellist Kurt Baldwin. All four musicians had extensive experience performing in orchestras and chamber groups, and they brought their individual talents and perspectives to the quartet. From the beginning, the Arianna String Quartet was committed to exploring the full range of the chamber music repertoire, from the classics of Mozart and Beethoven to contemporary works by living composers. The quartet's dedication to new music has led them to commission and premiere numerous works by composers such as Libby Larsen, Robert Sirota, and Zhou Long. Over the years, the Arianna String Quartet has become known for their dynamic and expressive performances, as well as their ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. The quartet's members have been praised for their technical precision, their musical sensitivity, and their ability to work together seamlessly as a team. One of the highlights of the Arianna String Quartet's career was their residency at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where they served as the quartet-in-residence from 2000 to 2020. During their tenure at UMSL, the quartet performed numerous concerts and masterclasses, and they also worked closely with students and faculty to promote the study and performance of chamber music. In addition to their work at UMSL, the Arianna String Quartet has performed at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and festivals. They have appeared at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the Wigmore Hall in London, the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, and the Festival Internacional Cervantino in Mexico, among many others. The Arianna String Quartet has also been recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout their career. In 1999, they won the Grand Prize at the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, one of the most prestigious chamber music competitions in the world. They have also been awarded the Cleveland Quartet Award, the Avery Fisher Career Grant, and the Missouri Arts Award, among others. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Arianna String Quartet has continued to perform and connect with audiences through virtual concerts and online events. They have also released several recordings, including their most recent album, "American Premieres," which features works by contemporary American composers. As the Arianna String Quartet looks to the future, they remain committed to their mission of bringing the beauty and power of chamber music to audiences around the world. With their exceptional musicianship, their passion for new music, and their dedication to education and outreach, the quartet is sure to continue making a lasting impact on the world of classical music for years to come.

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