Role

:

Ensemble

Country

:

Czech Republic

Genre

:

Chamber

 

The Bennewitz Quartet is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their exceptional performances for over two decades. The quartet was formed in 1998 in Prague, Czech Republic, and has since become one of the most sought-after string quartets in the world. The quartet is named after Antonín Bennewitz, a renowned Czech violinist and conductor who was the founder of the Czech Quartet in the late 19th century. The Bennewitz Quartet consists of four members: Jakub Fišer (violin), Štěpán Ježek (violin), Jiří Pinkas (viola), and Štěpán Doležal (cello). All four members are graduates of the Prague Conservatory and the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague. The quartet's early years were marked by numerous successes and awards. In 2000, they won the first prize at the prestigious Prague Spring International Music Competition, which launched their international career. They went on to win several other awards, including the International Chamber Music Competition in Osaka, Japan, and the Borciani Competition in Italy. The Bennewitz Quartet has performed in some of the world's most prestigious concert halls, including Carnegie Hall in New York, the Berlin Philharmonic, the Royal Albert Hall in London, and the Musikverein in Vienna. They have also collaborated with some of the world's most renowned musicians, including pianist Menahem Pressler, cellist Mischa Maisky, and violinist Isabelle Faust. One of the quartet's most notable performances was their debut at the Salzburg Festival in 2004, where they performed the complete string quartets of Béla Bartók. The performance was hailed as a triumph, and the quartet received a standing ovation from the audience. They have since become known for their interpretations of Bartók's music, and have recorded his complete string quartets for the Supraphon label. The quartet has also recorded the complete string quartets of Antonín Dvořák, which was released to critical acclaim in 2014. The recording was praised for its "impeccable ensemble playing, technical brilliance, and emotional depth." In addition to their performances and recordings, the Bennewitz Quartet is also committed to promoting classical music to a wider audience. They have established the Bennewitz Quartet Academy, which provides young musicians with the opportunity to study with the members of the quartet and perform in public concerts. They also regularly participate in educational programs and workshops for young musicians. The Bennewitz Quartet's dedication to their craft and their commitment to promoting classical music have earned them numerous accolades and awards. In 2018, they were awarded the prestigious Classic Prague Award for their contribution to the development of classical music in the Czech Republic. They have also been awarded the Czech Chamber Music Society Award and the Antonín Dvořák Prize. Despite their many achievements, the Bennewitz Quartet remains humble and dedicated to their art. They continue to perform and record with passion and precision, and their music continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world.

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