Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Chamber

 

The Pro Arte Piano Quartet is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their exceptional performances for over a century. The quartet was founded in 1912 by four young musicians who were studying at the Brussels Conservatory. The founding members were Alphonse Onnou (violin), Laurent Halleux (viola), Robert Maas (cello), and Adolphe Bosch (piano). The quartet was named after the Pro Arte Society, a cultural organization that supported the arts in Brussels. The Pro Arte Piano Quartet quickly gained a reputation for their outstanding musicianship and innovative programming. They were known for their interpretations of the works of classical composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms, as well as their performances of contemporary music. The quartet's unique sound was characterized by their seamless blend of piano and strings, which created a rich and vibrant sound that was both powerful and delicate. In 1919, the Pro Arte Piano Quartet embarked on their first international tour, which took them to England, France, and the United States. The tour was a great success, and the quartet was praised for their virtuosity and musicality. They continued to tour extensively throughout Europe and the United States, performing in some of the world's most prestigious concert halls. Over the years, the Pro Arte Piano Quartet underwent several personnel changes. Adolphe Bosch retired in 1939, and was replaced by Jean Absil. In 1941, Alphonse Onnou passed away, and was replaced by Germain Prévost. The quartet continued to perform and record throughout the 1940s and 1950s, and in 1958, they were awarded the prestigious Grand Prix du Disque for their recording of Mozart's Piano Quartets. In the 1960s, the Pro Arte Piano Quartet underwent another personnel change, with Germain Prévost retiring and being replaced by Arthur Grumiaux. The quartet continued to perform and record, and in 1972, they were awarded the Edison Award for their recording of Brahms' Piano Quartets. In 1976, the Pro Arte Piano Quartet disbanded, but their legacy continued to live on. Their recordings continued to be reissued and their performances continued to inspire new generations of musicians. In 1985, a new Pro Arte Piano Quartet was formed, with members Arpad Gerecz (violin), Gerhard Schulz (viola), Bruno Giuranna (cello), and Paul Badura-Skoda (piano). This new incarnation of the quartet continued to perform and record, and in 1991, they were awarded the Diapason d'Or for their recording of Schumann's Piano Quartet. The Pro Arte Piano Quartet has left an indelible mark on the world of classical music. Their innovative programming, exceptional musicianship, and unique sound have inspired countless musicians and audiences alike. Their recordings continue to be celebrated as some of the finest examples of chamber music, and their legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

More....