Quatuor Béla is a French classical music ensemble that specializes in contemporary music and has gained international recognition for its innovative and dynamic performances. The ensemble was founded in 2006 by four musicians who shared a passion for exploring new sounds and pushing the boundaries of classical music. The founding members of Quatuor Béla are Frédéric Aurier (violin), Julian Boutin (violin), Julian Boutin (viola), and Luc Dedreuil (cello). All four musicians had extensive experience performing in various orchestras and ensembles before coming together to form Quatuor Béla. They named the ensemble after the French composer Hector Berlioz's character Béla, who appears in his opera "Benvenuto Cellini." From the beginning, Quatuor Béla set out to challenge traditional notions of classical music and explore new sounds and techniques. The ensemble's repertoire includes works by contemporary composers such as Steve Reich, John Cage, and Philip Glass, as well as lesser-known composers from around the world. Quatuor Béla has also commissioned numerous new works from emerging composers, further expanding the boundaries of classical music. One of the highlights of Quatuor Béla's career was their performance at the 2008 Festival d'Automne in Paris, where they premiered a new work by the American composer Steve Reich. The piece, titled "WTC 9/11," was inspired by the events of September 11, 2001, and featured recordings of emergency calls from the World Trade Center. Quatuor Béla's performance was widely praised for its emotional intensity and technical precision. In 2010, Quatuor Béla won the prestigious Belmont Prize for Contemporary Music, which recognizes outstanding contributions to contemporary music. The prize was awarded to the ensemble in recognition of their innovative programming and commitment to promoting new music. Quatuor Béla has also collaborated with a number of other musicians and artists, including the French composer Pascal Dusapin and the American choreographer Trisha Brown. In 2012, the ensemble performed with the French singer and songwriter Dominique A, in a series of concerts that combined classical music with rock and pop. In addition to their performances, Quatuor Béla is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly gives masterclasses and workshops for young musicians, and has worked with schools and community organizations to promote classical music to a wider audience. Today, Quatuor Béla continues to push the boundaries of classical music and explore new sounds and techniques. The ensemble's innovative programming and dynamic performances have earned them a reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative classical music ensembles in the world.

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