Country

:

Finland

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Tempera Quartet is a Finnish classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique sound and style since their founding in 1997. The quartet is made up of four talented musicians: violinists Kati Kokkonen and Laura Vikman, violist Heini Kärkkäinen, and cellist Johanna Persson. Together, they have become one of the most sought-after chamber music groups in the world, known for their innovative programming and exceptional musicianship. The founding of Tempera Quartet can be traced back to the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, where the four members first met as students. They quickly discovered a shared passion for chamber music and began playing together regularly. In 1997, they decided to form a quartet and named themselves after the tempera painting technique, which involves mixing pigments with egg yolk to create a vibrant and durable paint. From the beginning, Tempera Quartet set out to explore the full range of the string quartet repertoire, from the classics of Haydn and Mozart to contemporary works by living composers. They also sought to bring a fresh perspective to familiar pieces, often incorporating elements of improvisation and experimentation into their performances. One of the highlights of Tempera Quartet's early career was their victory at the International String Quartet Competition in Bordeaux, France in 2000. This prestigious competition is known for its rigorous selection process and high standards, and winning it was a major achievement for the young ensemble. The prize included a recording contract with the French label Arion, which released the quartet's debut album the following year. Since then, Tempera Quartet has gone on to perform at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and festivals, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the Wigmore Hall in London, and the Salzburg Festival. They have collaborated with many of the leading musicians of our time, including pianist Leif Ove Andsnes, cellist Truls Mørk, and soprano Soile Isokoski. One of the hallmarks of Tempera Quartet's performances is their ability to create a sense of intimacy and connection with their audiences. They often engage in dialogue with the audience, sharing insights into the music and their own creative process. This approach has earned them a loyal following and has helped to make classical music more accessible and engaging for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. In addition to their performances, Tempera Quartet is also committed to education and outreach. They have worked with young musicians in Finland and around the world, leading masterclasses and workshops and mentoring the next generation of chamber musicians. Over the years, Tempera Quartet has received numerous awards and accolades for their work. In addition to their victory at the International String Quartet Competition in Bordeaux, they have been awarded the Pro Finlandia Medal, the Finnish State Prize for Music, and the Teosto Prize for their contributions to Finnish music. Despite their many achievements, Tempera Quartet remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of classical music and exploring new avenues of expression. They continue to inspire audiences with their passion, creativity, and virtuosity, and are sure to remain a force in the world of chamber music for many years to come.

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