Country

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United States of America

Period

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Contemporary

 

 

Modern

 

Kronos Quartet is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been active for over four decades. The group was founded in 1973 by violinist David Harrington, who sought to create a string quartet that would explore new and experimental music. Since then, Kronos Quartet has become one of the most influential and innovative ensembles in the classical music world, known for their adventurous programming and collaborations with a wide range of artists. The main members of Kronos Quartet are David Harrington (violin), John Sherba (violin), Hank Dutt (viola), and Sunny Yang (cello). Over the years, the group has had several other members, including Joan Jeanrenaud (cello) and Jeffrey Zeigler (cello). However, the current lineup has been together since 2013 and has continued to push the boundaries of classical music. Kronos Quartet has performed all over the world, including at major concert halls and festivals. Some of their most notable performances include their 1985 concert at the Lincoln Center in New York City, where they premiered works by Philip Glass and Steve Reich, and their 1998 performance at the Sydney Opera House, where they played a program of Australian music. They have also performed at the Edinburgh International Festival, the Salzburg Festival, and the BBC Proms. One of the hallmarks of Kronos Quartet's career has been their commitment to commissioning and performing new works. They have premiered over 1,000 pieces of music, many of which were written specifically for the group. Some of the composers they have worked with include Terry Riley, George Crumb, and Osvaldo Golijov. They have also collaborated with a wide range of artists from different genres, including rock musicians such as David Bowie and Björk, and jazz musicians such as Ornette Coleman and Pat Metheny. Kronos Quartet has received numerous awards and accolades throughout their career. They have won five Grammy Awards, including Best Chamber Music Performance in 2004 for their album "Berg: Lyric Suite," and Best World Music Album in 2009 for their album "Floodplain." They have also been awarded the Polar Music Prize, the Avery Fisher Prize, and the WOMEX Award for World Music. In addition to their performances and recordings, Kronos Quartet has also been involved in educational and outreach programs. They have worked with students and young musicians around the world, offering workshops and masterclasses. They have also established the Kronos Performing Arts Association, which supports new and emerging artists and promotes the creation of new works. Overall, Kronos Quartet has had a significant impact on the classical music world, both through their innovative programming and their commitment to new music. They have inspired countless musicians and composers, and their legacy will continue to influence the world of classical music for years to come.

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