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Ensemble

 

The Formalist Quartet is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2006 in Los Angeles, California. The quartet is known for its innovative and dynamic performances of contemporary classical music, as well as its commitment to promoting new works by emerging composers. The founding members of the Formalist Quartet are violinists Andrew Tholl and Mark Menzies, violist Andrew McIntosh, and cellist Ashley Walters. All four members are accomplished musicians in their own right, with extensive experience performing and recording with other ensembles and solo projects. The quartet takes its name from the literary movement of Russian Formalism, which emphasized the importance of form and structure in literature. Similarly, the Formalist Quartet places a strong emphasis on the structure and form of the music it performs, striving to bring out the unique qualities and complexities of each piece. Since its founding, the Formalist Quartet has performed extensively throughout the United States and internationally, earning critical acclaim for its innovative programming and virtuosic performances. The quartet has collaborated with a wide range of composers and performers, including John Luther Adams, Christian Wolff, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. One of the highlights of the Formalist Quartet's career was its performance at the 2010 Ojai Music Festival, where the quartet was featured as the ensemble-in-residence. The festival, which is known for its adventurous programming and commitment to contemporary music, provided the quartet with an opportunity to showcase its unique approach to classical music. In addition to its performances, the Formalist Quartet is also committed to promoting new works by emerging composers. The quartet has commissioned and premiered numerous works by composers such as Nicholas Deyoe, Wadada Leo Smith, and Wolfgang von Schweinitz, among others. The Formalist Quartet has received numerous awards and accolades for its performances and recordings. In 2012, the quartet was awarded the Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming, which recognizes ensembles that demonstrate a commitment to contemporary music and innovative programming. The quartet has also released several critically acclaimed recordings, including its debut album, "Two Strings Attached," which features works by John Cage, Morton Feldman, and Christian Wolff. The album was praised for its "impeccable musicianship" and "adventurous programming" by the Los Angeles Times. Overall, the Formalist Quartet is a dynamic and innovative ensemble that is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of classical music. With its commitment to contemporary music and its virtuosic performances, the quartet has established itself as one of the most exciting and innovative ensembles in the classical music world today.

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