Four Journeys: String Quartets in Chamber Music Education

Abstract

“I don't know anyone who just plays in Carnegie Hall—the music is bigger than that.” As Annie Fullard of the Cavani Quartet implies, a performance in one of the world's most prestigious concert halls has always been a coveted prize, and the definitive sign of success as a performing musician. But for today's musicians, another thrill—that of passing on the love of music-making to the next generation—is taking its place alongside their concert ovations. In the string world, a group of Chamber Music America's member string quartets are taking their music into classrooms, auditoriums, and rehearsal rooms nationwide, in collaboration with string teachers, other educators, and community partners. Four rising string quartets describe the path each has taken to make education an integral part of its burgeoning career.