Quartet ES

Quartet ES is a vibrant string quartet with members based in both Iceland and the United States, featuring violinists Anton Miller and Ertan Torgul, violist Rita Porfiris, and cellist Jennifer Kloetzel. The ensemble came together after a long separation of its members, bringing a rich blend of experience from two different musical scenes. Since their international debut at Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik in 2018, Quartet ES has been active in residencies and performances, including the Harpa International Music Academy and New Music for Strings in Reykjavik. They are particularly known for championing contemporary music, collaborating closely with living composers like Elena Ruehr, whose string quartets they have recorded and premiered.

Notably, their ambitious project during the pandemic involved commissioning 18 new works for string quartet, showcasing their commitment to expanding the modern repertoire. Their programming often includes music by composers ranging from Joseph Haydn to contemporary voices like Robert Carl and Elena Ruehr, reflecting their versatility and passion for both classic and new string quartet literature. Reviews praise their stylistic power and excellent musicianship, emphasizing their deep ensemble rapport and dynamic performances. Quartet ES continues to tour actively, with concerts in the U.S. and Europe, and their recordings of new compositions are eagerly anticipated by fans of modern chamber music.

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