Art of Élan, a nonprofit that promotes innovative classical music in San Diego, has tapped Chicago-based Kontras Quartet to be ensemble-in-residence for the next two years.
Admired for what critics have called “superlative artistry,” the quartet has established an international following for vibrant and nuanced performances.
“Kontras Quartet has always aspired to connect more directly with audiences, holding fast to the truth that music unites us all,” explained François Henkins, a violinist in the group. “We are honored to be named ensemble-in-residence and feel that by joining forces with Art of Élan, we can explore the potential of our common mission to the fullest extent possible.”
The quartet, which also includes violinist Eleanor Bartsch, violist Benjamin Weber and cellist Jean Hatmaker, first came to San Diego last April to perform with legendary jazz musician Branford Marsalis at an Art of Élan concert.
The quartet will visit San Diego twice in the first half of the year, first for a performance at the San Diego Museum of Art on Feb. 22, and then with Malashock Dance at the Lyceum Theatre from May 31 to June 2.
They will also aid in Art of Élan’s newly established community engagement projects at the Centro de Artes Musicales in Tijuana.
Kontras Quartet’s cellist is the sister of Art of Élan founder Kate Hatmaker, who said she is ” thrilled to be collaborating with my sister on this two-year partnership.”
“It feels like a natural continuation of a lifetime of making music together, only this time we’ll be doing it for the ever-curious audiences of Southern California,” said Hatmaker.
Art of Élan is supported by the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, the County of San Diego, the California Arts Council, the Clare Rose Foundation and the generosity of individual donors and board members.
