Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Baroque

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Orchestral

 

The Washington Chamber Soloists is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1983 by cellist and conductor, Kenneth Slowik. The ensemble is based in Washington, D.C. and is known for its exceptional performances of chamber music. Kenneth Slowik, who is also a curator at the Smithsonian Institution, founded the Washington Chamber Soloists with the goal of bringing together some of the most talented musicians in the Washington, D.C. area to perform chamber music. The ensemble's first performance was in 1983 at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History. The Washington Chamber Soloists is made up of a core group of musicians, including Kenneth Slowik on cello, violinists Elizabeth Field and Marilyn McDonald, violist James Dunham, and harpsichordist Bradley Brookshire. The ensemble also frequently collaborates with guest artists, including some of the most renowned musicians in the world. Over the years, the Washington Chamber Soloists has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the United States and around the world. The ensemble has been featured at the Kennedy Center, the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian Institution, and the National Gallery of Art, among others. The ensemble has also performed in Europe, Asia, and South America. One of the highlights of the Washington Chamber Soloists' career was their performance at the White House in 1994. The ensemble was invited to perform for President Bill Clinton and First Lady Hillary Clinton, as well as a number of other dignitaries. The performance was a great success and helped to raise the profile of the ensemble. The Washington Chamber Soloists has also been recognized for their exceptional performances with a number of awards and honors. In 1990, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant, which is given to outstanding young musicians who show exceptional promise. The ensemble has also been nominated for a Grammy Award for their recording of Bach's Brandenburg Concertos. In addition to their performances, the Washington Chamber Soloists is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble frequently performs for school groups and community organizations, and they also offer master classes and workshops for young musicians. Overall, the Washington Chamber Soloists is a world-class ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. With their exceptional performances, commitment to education, and dedication to their craft, the ensemble has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the finest chamber music ensembles in the world.

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