The New Russian Quartet is a classical music ensemble that has gained international recognition for its exceptional performances of chamber music. The quartet was founded in 1991 by four young musicians who shared a passion for classical music and a desire to bring their unique interpretation of Russian music to audiences around the world. The founding members of the New Russian Quartet were violinists Andrey Baranov and Alexey Naumenko, violist Dmitry Pitulko, and cellist Alexey Zhilin. All four musicians had received extensive training in classical music and had already established themselves as accomplished performers in their own right. However, they were drawn together by a shared vision of creating a quartet that would showcase the rich tradition of Russian chamber music. The quartet's early years were marked by a series of successful performances in Russia and Europe, which quickly established the ensemble as one of the most promising young chamber groups of its time. The quartet's repertoire focused on the works of Russian composers such as Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, and Prokofiev, as well as the classical works of Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn. One of the highlights of the New Russian Quartet's early career was its performance at the 1994 International Chamber Music Competition in Osaka, Japan. The quartet's performance of Tchaikovsky's String Quartet No. 1 in D Major earned them first prize in the competition, and helped to launch their international career. Over the years, the New Russian Quartet has continued to build on its early success, performing at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and festivals. The quartet has performed at the Berlin Philharmonic, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, and the Wigmore Hall in London, among many others. In addition to its live performances, the New Russian Quartet has also released several critically acclaimed recordings. The quartet's recordings of the complete string quartets of Shostakovich and Tchaikovsky have been particularly well-received, earning the ensemble numerous awards and accolades. One of the most notable performances in the New Russian Quartet's career was its 2006 performance at the White House for President George W. Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The quartet performed a program of Russian and American music, including works by Gershwin, Tchaikovsky, and Shostakovich. The performance was widely praised for its artistry and diplomacy, and helped to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries. The New Russian Quartet has also been recognized for its commitment to education and outreach. The quartet has conducted masterclasses and workshops for young musicians around the world, and has worked to promote classical music in schools and communities. In recognition of its contributions to the world of classical music, the New Russian Quartet has received numerous awards and honors. The quartet was awarded the State Prize of the Russian Federation in 2003, and has been named a "People's Artist of Russia," the highest honor that can be bestowed on a performing artist in Russia. Today, the New Russian Quartet continues to perform and record, bringing its unique interpretation of Russian chamber music to audiences around the world. The quartet's commitment to excellence and its dedication to promoting classical music make it one of the most respected and admired chamber ensembles of its time.

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