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Ensemble

 

The Parker Quartet is a classical music ensemble that has gained international recognition for its exceptional performances and recordings. The quartet was founded in 2002 at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, by four talented musicians: Daniel Chong (violin), Karen Kim (violin), Jessica Bodner (viola), and Kee-Hyun Kim (cello). The members of the Parker Quartet were all students at the New England Conservatory of Music when they first met. They quickly discovered a shared passion for chamber music and decided to form a quartet. The quartet was named after the legendary American jazz saxophonist Charlie Parker, who was known for his innovative and improvisational style. The Parker Quartet quickly gained a reputation for their exceptional musicianship and dynamic performances. They won numerous awards and competitions, including the Concert Artists Guild Competition in 2005, the Bordeaux International String Quartet Competition in 2007, and the Cleveland Quartet Award in 2009. In addition to their competition wins, the Parker Quartet has also been recognized for their recordings. Their debut album, Bartók: String Quartets Nos. 2, 4 & 6, was released in 2007 and received critical acclaim. The album was named one of the top classical recordings of the year by The New York Times and was nominated for a Grammy Award. The Parker Quartet has performed at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and festivals, including Carnegie Hall, the Berlin Philharmonic, the Edinburgh International Festival, and the Lincoln Center. They have collaborated with many renowned musicians, including pianist Menahem Pressler, violist Kim Kashkashian, and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. One of the highlights of the Parker Quartet's career was their performance at the White House in 2009. They were invited to perform for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama as part of a celebration of classical music. The quartet performed works by Mozart and Dvořák, and their performance was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience. The Parker Quartet has also been committed to education and outreach. They have worked with young musicians through masterclasses and workshops, and have performed in schools and community centers. They have also been involved in innovative projects, such as their collaboration with the visual artist Ethan Murrow on a multimedia performance of Beethoven's String Quartet No. 14. In recent years, the Parker Quartet has undergone some changes in its membership. In 2017, Karen Kim left the quartet and was replaced by Ken Hamao. The quartet has continued to perform and record with their new member, and their most recent album, Mendelssohn: String Quartets Nos. 1 & 4, was released in 2020. Overall, the Parker Quartet has established itself as one of the leading classical music ensembles of its generation. With their exceptional musicianship, dynamic performances, and commitment to education and outreach, they have inspired audiences and musicians around the world.

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