Quartet Pro Musica is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their exceptional performances for over 50 years. The ensemble was founded in 1969 by four talented musicians who shared a passion for chamber music. The founding members were violinist Joseph Silverstein, violist Lillian Fuchs, cellist Leslie Parnas, and pianist Eugene Istomin. Joseph Silverstein was a renowned violinist who had previously served as the concertmaster of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Lillian Fuchs was a highly respected violist who had performed with many of the world's leading orchestras. Leslie Parnas was a cellist who had won numerous awards and had performed with many of the world's leading conductors. Eugene Istomin was a pianist who had won the prestigious Leventritt Competition and had performed with many of the world's leading orchestras. The ensemble's name, Quartet Pro Musica, was chosen to reflect their commitment to performing the highest quality classical music. The ensemble quickly gained a reputation for their exceptional musicianship and their ability to bring out the best in each other's playing. Over the years, Quartet Pro Musica has undergone several personnel changes. Joseph Silverstein left the ensemble in 1971 to become the concertmaster of the New York Philharmonic. He was replaced by violinist Arnold Steinhardt, who had previously been a member of the Guarneri Quartet. Lillian Fuchs retired from the ensemble in 1974 and was replaced by violist Michael Tree, who had also been a member of the Guarneri Quartet. Leslie Parnas left the ensemble in 1980 and was replaced by cellist Leslie Shapiro. Eugene Istomin remained with the ensemble until his death in 2003. Despite these personnel changes, Quartet Pro Musica continued to thrive and to perform at the highest level. The ensemble has performed in many of the world's leading concert halls, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Royal Festival Hall in London. They have also performed at many of the world's leading music festivals, including the Marlboro Music Festival and the Edinburgh Festival. Quartet Pro Musica has recorded extensively, with many of their recordings receiving critical acclaim. Their recordings include works by Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart, and Schubert, among others. They have also recorded works by contemporary composers, including Elliott Carter and George Rochberg. The ensemble has received many awards and honors over the years. In 1976, they were awarded the Grammy Award for Best Chamber Music Performance for their recording of the Beethoven String Quartets, Op. 131 and Op. 135. They were also awarded the Avery Fisher Prize in 1979, which is one of the most prestigious awards in classical music. Quartet Pro Musica has also been committed to music education and outreach. They have conducted masterclasses and workshops for young musicians, and they have performed in schools and community centers throughout the United States. They have also been involved in many charitable organizations, including the Musicians Emergency Fund and the American Cancer Society. In conclusion, Quartet Pro Musica is a classical music ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of chamber music. Their exceptional musicianship, their commitment to performing the highest quality classical music, and their dedication to music education and outreach have made them one of the most respected and admired ensembles in the world.

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