Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Contemporary

Genre

:

Chamber

 

The Athena Quartet is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their exceptional performances since their founding in 2002. The quartet is composed of four talented musicians, each with their own unique style and expertise. The members of the Athena Quartet are violinists Lisa Rautenberg and Grace Park, violist Jessica Bodner, and cellist Rebecca Patterson. The Athena Quartet was founded in New York City by Lisa Rautenberg and Rebecca Patterson. The two musicians had previously played together in the New York Philharmonic and decided to form their own ensemble. They were soon joined by Grace Park and Jessica Bodner, both accomplished musicians in their own right. The quartet takes its name from the Greek goddess Athena, who was known for her wisdom, courage, and artistic abilities. The Athena Quartet has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center. They have also performed at numerous festivals, including the Aspen Music Festival, the Caramoor Festival, and the Ravinia Festival. The quartet has collaborated with many renowned musicians, including pianist Emanuel Ax, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and violinist Itzhak Perlman. One of the highlights of the Athena Quartet's career was their performance at the White House in 2009. The quartet was invited to perform for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama at a reception honoring the recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors. The quartet performed a selection of classical pieces, including works by Mozart and Beethoven. The Athena Quartet has also been recognized for their exceptional talent and artistry. They were awarded the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant in 2006, which is given to outstanding young musicians who show exceptional promise for a career in classical music. The quartet has also been awarded the Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming, which recognizes ensembles that demonstrate a commitment to innovative programming. In addition to their performances, the Athena Quartet is also dedicated to music education. They have conducted masterclasses and workshops for students of all ages, and have served as faculty members at various music schools and festivals. The quartet is committed to inspiring the next generation of musicians and fostering a love of classical music in young people. The Athena Quartet has recorded several albums, including their debut album, "Mozart: The String Quartets," which was released in 2006. The album received critical acclaim and was praised for its exceptional musicianship and interpretation of Mozart's works. The quartet has also recorded works by Beethoven, Brahms, and Schubert, among others. The members of the Athena Quartet are all accomplished musicians in their own right. Lisa Rautenberg has performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. Grace Park has performed with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, the New York Philharmonic, and the Seattle Symphony Orchestra. Jessica Bodner has performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. Rebecca Patterson has performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra.

More....