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The Stanford Woodwind Quintet is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their exceptional performances for over half a century. The quintet was formed in 1968 at Stanford University, California, and has since become one of the most celebrated woodwind quintets in the world. The founding members of the Stanford Woodwind Quintet were flutist John Barrows, oboist William Bennett, clarinetist David Breidenthal, bassoonist Loren Glickman, and horn player Douglas Hill. All five members were faculty members at Stanford University, and they came together with the goal of creating a world-class woodwind quintet that would showcase the beauty and versatility of their instruments. The quintet quickly gained a reputation for their exceptional musicianship and innovative programming. They performed a wide range of repertoire, from classical works by Mozart and Beethoven to contemporary pieces by living composers. They also commissioned new works for the woodwind quintet, helping to expand the repertoire for this ensemble. Over the years, the Stanford Woodwind Quintet has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Berlin Philharmonic. They have also toured extensively throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia, earning critical acclaim and enthusiastic audiences wherever they go. One of the highlights of the Stanford Woodwind Quintet's career was their performance at the White House in 1978. They were invited to play for President Jimmy Carter and his guests, and their performance was so well-received that they were invited back to the White House for a second performance in 1980. The quintet has also been recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout their career. In 1971, they were awarded the Naumburg Chamber Music Award, one of the most prestigious awards for chamber music in the United States. They were also awarded the Walter W. Naumburg Foundation's Chamber Music Recording Award in 1973 for their recording of works by Mozart, Beethoven, and Hindemith. In addition to their performances and recordings, the members of the Stanford Woodwind Quintet have also been dedicated teachers and mentors to generations of young musicians. They have taught at Stanford University and other institutions around the world, and have inspired countless students to pursue careers in music. Over the years, the membership of the Stanford Woodwind Quintet has changed as members retired or moved on to other projects. However, the quintet has continued to maintain its high standards of musicianship and innovation, and has remained a beloved and respected ensemble in the world of classical music. Today, the Stanford Woodwind Quintet is comprised of flutist Carol Wincenc, oboist James Austin Smith, clarinetist Jose Franch-Ballester, bassoonist Rufus Olivier, and horn player Kevin Rivard. These five musicians continue to carry on the legacy of the original members, performing a wide range of repertoire and commissioning new works for the woodwind quintet. In conclusion, the Stanford Woodwind Quintet is a remarkable ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Their exceptional musicianship, innovative programming, and dedication to teaching have inspired countless musicians and audiences around the world.

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