Apollo Chamber Players is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2008 in Houston, Texas. The group is known for its innovative programming, which combines classical music with folk and world music traditions from around the globe. The ensemble is made up of four core members: Matthew J. Detrick (violin), Anabel Ramirez (violin), Whitney Bullock (viola), and Matthew Dudzik (cello). The founding of Apollo Chamber Players was inspired by the desire to create a chamber music ensemble that would be both artistically excellent and socially relevant. The group's mission is to "explore the cultural and folkloric influences in classical music and to promote multiculturalism and diversity through music." This mission is reflected in the group's programming, which often features works by composers from diverse cultural backgrounds, as well as collaborations with musicians from different traditions. One of the highlights of Apollo Chamber Players' career was their 2014 album release, "Blurred Boundaries," which featured works by composers from around the world, including Argentina, China, and Iran. The album received critical acclaim and was named one of the top classical albums of the year by NPR. The group's 2016 album, "European Folkscapes," continued this tradition of exploring the intersection of classical and folk music traditions, featuring works by composers from Hungary, Romania, and Spain. In addition to their recordings, Apollo Chamber Players has also received numerous awards and accolades for their live performances. The group has been featured on NPR's "Performance Today" and has performed at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. They have also been recognized for their commitment to education and outreach, receiving grants from organizations such as the National Endowment for the Arts and the Texas Commission on the Arts. One of the group's most notable performances was their 2017 concert at the Asia Society Texas Center, which featured a collaboration with musicians from Iran. The concert, titled "Iranian Inspirations," showcased works by Iranian composers and explored the cultural connections between Iran and the Western classical music tradition. The concert was praised for its innovative programming and for its ability to bridge cultural divides through music. Another highlight of Apollo Chamber Players' career was their 2019 concert at the Houston Museum of Fine Arts, which featured a collaboration with the Houston Ballet. The concert, titled "Dancing Around the World," showcased works by composers from around the globe and was accompanied by performances by dancers from the Houston Ballet. The concert was praised for its ability to bring together different art forms and for its celebration of cultural diversity. Overall, Apollo Chamber Players has established itself as a leading ensemble in the classical music world, known for its innovative programming and commitment to promoting cultural diversity and understanding through music. The group's unique approach to chamber music has earned them critical acclaim and a dedicated following of fans and supporters. As they continue to push the boundaries of classical music and explore new cultural connections, Apollo Chamber Players is sure to remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of classical music.

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