St. George Quintet is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique sound and style for over two decades. The group was founded in 1996 by five talented musicians who shared a passion for chamber music and a desire to create something new and exciting. The founding members of St. George Quintet were violinist Jussi Tuhkanen, violist Eriikka Maalismaa, cellist Teemu Kupiainen, clarinetist Harri Mäki, and bassoonist Jussi Särkkä. Each member brought their own unique talents and experiences to the group, and together they created a sound that was both fresh and timeless. From the beginning, St. George Quintet was committed to exploring the full range of chamber music, from classical to contemporary. They quickly gained a reputation for their innovative programming and their ability to bring new life to old classics. Their performances were marked by a deep sense of musicality and a strong connection with their audience. Over the years, St. George Quintet has performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the Royal Albert Hall in London, and the Carnegie Hall in New York. They have also collaborated with some of the most renowned musicians of our time, including pianist Leif Ove Andsnes and conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen. One of the highlights of St. George Quintet's career was their performance at the 2003 Edinburgh International Festival. The group was invited to perform a program of Finnish music, which included works by Jean Sibelius and Einojuhani Rautavaara. The performance was a huge success, and it helped to establish St. George Quintet as one of the leading chamber music ensembles in the world. In addition to their performances, St. George Quintet has also been recognized for their recordings. They have released several albums, including "Finnish Folk Fiddling," which won the Emma Award for Best Classical Album in 2001. They have also been nominated for several other awards, including the Gramophone Award and the BBC Music Magazine Award. Despite their success, St. George Quintet remains committed to their mission of exploring the full range of chamber music. They continue to push the boundaries of the genre, experimenting with new sounds and styles while remaining true to their classical roots. Their performances are always marked by a sense of passion and dedication, and they continue to inspire audiences around the world with their music.

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