Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Keyboard

 

 

Opera

 

 

Orchestral

 

Tashi is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1973 by four renowned musicians: clarinetist Richard Stoltzman, pianist Peter Serkin, violinist Ida Kavafian, and cellist Fred Sherry. The ensemble's name, Tashi, is a Tibetan word that means "good fortune" or "auspiciousness." The founding members of Tashi were all accomplished musicians in their own right, with extensive experience performing as soloists and in other ensembles. Richard Stoltzman had already established himself as one of the leading clarinetists of his generation, having won the prestigious Avery Fisher Prize in 1973. Peter Serkin was also a highly regarded pianist, known for his interpretations of the works of Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart. Ida Kavafian was a rising star in the world of classical music, having won the Young Concert Artists International Auditions in 1972. Fred Sherry was a renowned cellist who had performed with some of the world's leading orchestras and chamber ensembles. The founding members of Tashi came together with the goal of exploring the rich repertoire of chamber music for clarinet, piano, violin, and cello. They were particularly interested in performing works by contemporary composers, as well as lesser-known works from the classical and romantic periods. Tashi quickly gained a reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative chamber ensembles of its time. The group's performances were marked by their technical precision, expressive playing, and adventurous programming. They were known for their ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles and genres, creating a unique and compelling sound that captivated audiences around the world. Over the years, Tashi performed at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and music festivals, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, the Salzburg Festival, and the Edinburgh Festival. They also recorded extensively, releasing more than a dozen albums on the RCA and Sony Classical labels. One of the highlights of Tashi's career was their performance at the White House in 1979, where they played for President Jimmy Carter and his guests. The group also received numerous awards and honors, including a Grammy nomination for their recording of the Brahms Clarinet Quintet. Despite their success, Tashi was not immune to the challenges faced by many classical music ensembles. In 1989, Peter Serkin left the group to focus on his solo career, and was replaced by pianist Richard Goode. The group continued to perform and record with this new lineup, but eventually disbanded in 1997. Despite their relatively short career, Tashi left a lasting impact on the world of classical music. Their innovative approach to chamber music, their commitment to exploring new repertoire, and their virtuosic playing continue to inspire musicians and audiences alike.

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