The Ciompi Quartet is an American string quartet in residence at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.[1] Founded in 1965 by Italian violinist Giorgio Ciompi, the ensemble is noted for its long-standing commitment to both traditional repertoire and new music, its active pedagogy, and its role in Duke’s musical life.
The quartet was founded in 1965 by Giorgio Ciompi, a Florentine violinist, as part of Duke University's artist-in-residence program.[2] The founding members were Ciompi (first violin), Julia Mueller (viola), Arlene DiCecco (second violin), and Luca DiCecco (cello). In 1966, they were officially appointed as the quartet-in-residence at Duke, a role they maintain to this day.
Artistic Profile and Activities
The Ciompi Quartet is deeply involved in both performance and education. All current members are faculty in Duke University's Music Department, where they teach lessons, coach chamber music, and lead workshops. Their presence on campus extends to informal concerts (in dormitories and classrooms) as well as formal recitals. Over its decades-long career, the quartet has performed across five continents, including tours in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.[3]
Members
Ciompi Quartet - Founding Members
First Violin
1965 - 1983: Giorgio Ciompi
1984 - 1994: Bruce Berg
1995 - present: Eric Pritchard
Second Violin
1965 - 1973: Arlene DiCecco
1973 - 1981: Claudia Erdberg
1982 - 1990: Claudia Bloom
1990 - present: Hsiao-mei Ku
Viola
1965 - 1975: Julia Mueller
1975 - 1979: Bruce Plumb
1979 - 1986: George Taylor
1986 - present: Jonathan Bagg
Violoncello
1965 - 1973: Luca DiCecco
1973 - 1974: Sharon Robinson
1974 - 2018: Fred Raimi
2018 - present: Caroline Stinson
Repertoire and Commissions
Ciompi on Stage at Merkin Hall in New York with Saxophonist Susan Fancher on April 30, 2025
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While the Ciompi Quartet has a solid footing in the classical and romantic quartet tradition, it is also a strong advocate for contemporary music. Over five decade they have commissioned and premiered works by many composers, especially those associated with Duke University, including Paul Schoenfield, Stephen Jaffe, Scott Lindroth, and Melinda Wagner.
Recordings
1992 - The Ciompi Quartet: Frank Bridge, Ludwig von Beethoven; Sheffield Lab
2015 - Journeys: Journey to the West by Hsu, Chiayu; Naxos
2017 - Mosaic - EP: Joel Feigin
2025 - A Duke Moment: Anthony Kelley, Stephen Jaffe and Scott Lindroth; New Focus Recordings
Legacy and Impact
The Ciompi Quartet has maintained a continuous presence at Duke University for decades, serving not just as performers but as educators and mentors. Their long-term commissioning of new works has enriched the string quartet repertoire, particularly from composers associated with Duke.
Critics often praise the ensemble for its warm, unified sound, technical excellence, and intelligent programming. Their blend of traditional and modern music, and their dedication to both performance and pedagogy, make them a significant force in American chamber music.
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