String Quartet

Closely mentored by Penelope P. Watkins Ensemble in Residence, the Dover Quartet, the ensemble performs two recitals annually, which are professionally recorded, and masterclasses for guest quartets and other visiting artists. The quartet has the opportunity to perform nationally and around the globe through Curtis on Tour, and quartet members participate in concerts of contemporary music with Curtis’ New Music. As mentoring is an important dimension of the quartet program, quartet members coach and perform with students who are part of the Young Artists Initiative (those of high school age and younger).

The quartet program was established in 2013 and has graduated ensembles that are pursuing fast-rising and global careers, including the Dover, Aizuri, and Viano Quartets. Accolades include Grammy Award nominations, the Avery Fisher Career Grant, top prizes from the M Prize Competition and Astral Artist’s National Auditions, and recognition in the New York Times, among others.

Program Highlights

• Regular coachings with members of the Dover Quartet
• Additional coachings with Curtis faculty
• Private lessons with members of the Dover Quartet
• Two recitals annually (professionally recorded)
• Masterclasses with guest quartets and visiting artists
• Concerts with Curtis’ New Music Ensemble
• Opportunities to perform around the world with Curtis on Tour
• Opportunities to coach younger students at Curtis

In addition to the two-year Post-Baccalaureate Diploma, Curtis offers a 10-day summer workshop for advanced string quartets. Read more about the Dover Quartet String Quartet Workshop here.

Curtis is grateful to the donors who provided generous funding to pilot the school’s string quartet program: Henry Arnhold, Nina Baroness von Maltzahn, Bob and Gina Mundheim, and Phil and Eli Taylor.

Degree programs available within the string quartet department include the following.

• Post-Baccalaureate Diploma

Learn more about curriculum at Curtis

Application and Prescreening

• Application – One representative will fill out the quartet application; each member will fill out a bio and educational background form.
• A full group bio (or link to the quartet’s website) detailing information including the ensemble’s history, formal training, residencies, competitions, and awards
• A full repertoire list
• Prescreening recording
  • A movement of a work from the standard classical repertoire
  • A movement of a work from the standard romantic repertoire
  • A movement or work from the period 1900-1975
  • A movement or work from the period 1975-present

Live Audition

The quartet should perform for approximately 45 minutes. The first selection is a movement of the group’s choice.  Subsequent selections of pieces and movements will be made by the audition committee. Finally, there will be a 15-minute interview/discussion conducted by the audition committee. The quartet should be prepared to comment on the group’s background, goals, etc.