Duo526 is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2015 by two talented musicians, violinist Ari Streisfeld and pianist Molly Morkoski. The duo has quickly gained recognition for their unique and dynamic performances, which showcase their exceptional musicianship and deep understanding of classical music. Ari Streisfeld, the violinist of Duo526, is a highly acclaimed musician who has performed with some of the world's most prestigious orchestras and ensembles. He is a founding member of the JACK Quartet, which has been praised for its innovative approach to contemporary music. Streisfeld has also collaborated with many renowned composers, including Steve Reich, John Zorn, and Philip Glass. Molly Morkoski, the pianist of Duo526, is equally accomplished, having performed as a soloist and chamber musician throughout the United States and Europe. She has been praised for her "brilliant technique" and "deep musicality" by The New York Times and has collaborated with many prominent composers, including John Adams, George Crumb, and Kaija Saariaho. The duo's name, Duo526, is a reference to the number of keys on a standard piano and the number of strings on a violin. This name reflects the close collaboration between the two musicians and their shared passion for classical music. Since its founding, Duo526 has performed at many prestigious venues and festivals, including the Kennedy Center, the Ravinia Festival, and the Mostly Mozart Festival. The duo has also been featured on numerous radio programs, including NPR's Performance Today and WQXR's New Sounds. One of the highlights of Duo526's career was their performance at the 2017 Bang on a Can Marathon, a renowned festival of contemporary music. The duo performed a program of works by Steve Reich, John Zorn, and other contemporary composers, showcasing their exceptional skill and versatility. Duo526 has also been recognized for their outstanding performances with several awards and honors. In 2016, the duo was awarded a grant from the Aaron Copland Fund for Music, which supported their performances and recordings of contemporary music. The duo was also awarded a residency at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, where they worked on new compositions and collaborated with other musicians and artists. In addition to their performances and recordings, Duo526 is committed to promoting classical music and engaging with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The duo has conducted masterclasses and workshops at universities and music schools throughout the United States, sharing their knowledge and expertise with the next generation of musicians. Overall, Duo526 is a dynamic and innovative classical music ensemble that has quickly gained recognition for their exceptional musicianship and deep understanding of contemporary music. With their unique approach to classical music and their commitment to engaging with audiences, the duo is sure to continue making a significant impact on the classical music world for years to come.

More....