“The Aizuri Quartet…is in full possession of that most elusive of string quartet qualities: the balance between charisma of the individual and cohesion of the collective.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

In addition to the 2018 M-Prize, the Aizuri Quartet was awarded First Prize at the 2017 Osaka International Chamber Music Competition in Japan, and Third Prize at the 2015 Wigmore Hall International String Quartet Competition in London. Through its engaging and thought-provoking programs, the Quartet has garnered critical acclaim for bringing “a technical bravado and emotional power” to bold new commissions, and for its flawless performances of the great masterpieces of the past in which “every note is lovingly crafted and savored” (Washington Post).

Combining their deep study of classical music with a naturally warm and exuberant approach to audiences and students, the Aizuri Quartet is passionate about creating diverse points of entry into the string quartet repertoire. As its 2015 resident ensemble, the Quartet worked closely with Philadelphia’s Barnes Foundation to develop programs and commission new works that forged meaningful connections between music and visual art. The Quartet was featured throughout the Curtis-Coursera online course “The World of the String Quartet,” which was hosted by Arnold Steinhardt and has reached thousands of students from over a hundred countries.

Finding great joy in working with contemporary composers and exploring unusual collaborations, the Aizuri Quartet is proud to have commissioned and premiered works by Pulitzer Prize-winner Caroline Shaw (Blueprint), Paul Wiancko (LIFT), Yevgeniy Sharlat (RIPEFG), Gabriella Smith (Carrot Revolution), Rene Orth (Stripped), and Alyssa Weinberg (Parallels).

Formed in 2012, the Aizuri Quartet draws its name from “aizuri-e,” a style of predominantly blue Japanese woodblock printing that is noted for its vibrancy and incredible detail.