Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

The Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their exceptional performances for over 60 years. The quintet was founded in 1960 by five talented musicians who shared a passion for chamber music and a desire to create a unique sound that would set them apart from other ensembles. The founding members of the Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet were flutist Murray Panitz, oboist John de Lancie, clarinetist Anthony Gigliotti, bassoonist Bernard Garfield, and French horn player Mason Jones. All five musicians were members of the Philadelphia Orchestra, one of the most prestigious orchestras in the world, and had already established themselves as accomplished soloists and chamber musicians. From the very beginning, the Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet was committed to exploring the vast repertoire of chamber music for woodwind instruments and expanding the boundaries of the genre. They quickly gained a reputation for their innovative programming, which included both classical masterpieces and contemporary works by living composers. Over the years, the Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet has performed at some of the most prestigious concert halls and music festivals around the world, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Marlboro Music Festival. They have also collaborated with many renowned musicians, including pianist Rudolf Serkin, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and soprano Dawn Upshaw. One of the highlights of the Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet's career was their performance at the White House in 1976, as part of the bicentennial celebrations of the United States. They were the first chamber music ensemble to perform at the White House, and their performance was widely praised for its elegance and virtuosity. The Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet has also been recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout their career. In 1972, they were awarded the prestigious Naumburg Chamber Music Award, which is given annually to outstanding young chamber music ensembles. They were also the first ensemble to receive the Philadelphia Orchestra's C. Hartman Kuhn Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the orchestra's artistic excellence. Despite changes in personnel over the years, the Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet has remained committed to their mission of exploring the rich and diverse repertoire of chamber music for woodwind instruments. They have recorded numerous albums, including works by Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms, as well as contemporary composers such as Elliott Carter and George Crumb. Today, the Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet continues to inspire and delight audiences with their exceptional performances and innovative programming. They are a testament to the enduring power and beauty of chamber music, and a true treasure of the classical music world.

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