Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Band

 

 

Orchestral

 

 

Vocal

 

Ladies Only Café Strings is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2005 by a group of female musicians who shared a passion for chamber music. The ensemble is based in New York City and is known for its unique blend of classical and contemporary music. The founding members of Ladies Only Café Strings were violinists Yoko Takebe and Yumi Oshima, violist Ayane Kozasa, and cellist Mika Mimura. All four musicians had extensive experience performing in orchestras and chamber ensembles, and they were eager to explore new repertoire and collaborate with other musicians. The ensemble's name was inspired by the idea of a cozy café where friends could gather to enjoy good music and conversation. The members of Ladies Only Café Strings wanted to create a welcoming and intimate atmosphere for their audiences, and they chose repertoire that was both accessible and engaging. Over the years, Ladies Only Café Strings has expanded its membership to include other talented female musicians, including pianist Eri Nakamura and flutist Tomoko Nakayama. The ensemble's core members, however, remain the original quartet of Takebe, Oshima, Kozasa, and Mimura. Ladies Only Café Strings has performed at a variety of venues throughout the United States and Japan, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center. The ensemble has also been featured on numerous radio and television programs, including NPR's "Performance Today" and WQXR's "Young Artists Showcase." One of the highlights of Ladies Only Café Strings' career was their performance at the 2008 Aspen Music Festival, where they were awarded the prestigious Dorothy DeLay Fellowship. The fellowship, named after the renowned violin teacher, is awarded to outstanding young musicians who show exceptional promise in their field. Another notable performance by Ladies Only Café Strings was their collaboration with the Japanese pop singer Ayaka Hirahara on her album "Jupiter." The album, which was released in 2010, features Hirahara's vocals accompanied by the ensemble's string quartet. Ladies Only Café Strings has also been recognized for their commitment to community outreach and education. The ensemble has performed at schools and community centers throughout New York City, and they have worked with organizations such as the New York Philharmonic's Very Young Composers program and the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center's Young Musicians program. In addition to their live performances, Ladies Only Café Strings has released several recordings, including their debut album "Café Strings" in 2007 and their most recent album "Reflections" in 2019. The ensemble's recordings showcase their versatility and range, featuring works by composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Shostakovich as well as contemporary pieces by living composers. Overall, Ladies Only Café Strings has established itself as a dynamic and innovative ensemble that is dedicated to bringing classical music to new audiences. With their unique blend of classical and contemporary repertoire, their commitment to community outreach, and their exceptional musicianship, the ensemble is sure to continue making an impact in the world of classical music for years to come.

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