Spektral Quartet was a Chicago-based string quartet known for its commitment to contemporary music, interdisciplinary collaborations, and innovative audience engagement. Active from 2010 to 2022, the ensemble was celebrated for blending traditional string quartet repertoire with new works by living composers. Over its twelve-year career, Spektral Quartet performed at major venues and festivals, commissioned dozens of new works, and released multiple critically acclaimed albums.[1]
Founded in 2010, Spektral Quartet quickly gained recognition for its bold programming and deep engagement with Chicago’s contemporary music scene.[2] Their work emphasized collaboration with composers, visual artists, and interdisciplinary creators, culminating in a repertoire that spanned classical, experimental, and avant-garde music. The quartet's commitment to pushing artistic boundaries led to notable projects such as Mobile Miniatures[3], a commissioning initiative involving dozens of composers including George E. Lewis, Nico Muhly, Shulamit Ran and Augusta Read Thomas, and Once More, With Feeling![4], a concert format allowing audiences to hear new works twice in a single performance.
From 2012 to 2019, Spektral Quartet served as the Ensemble-in-Residence at the University of Chicago’s Department of Music, where they worked closely with faculty and students, premiered new compositions, and engaged in educational outreach.
In 2022, Spektral Quartet announced the conclusion of its work as an ensemble, marking the end of an era for one of the leading string quartets in contemporary music. The ensemble’s farewell was met with critical acclaim, with The Chicago Tribune reflecting on their lasting impact on the chamber music world.[5]
Chamber Music America Classical Commissioning Grant (2018)
Named "Chicagoans of the Year" (2017) by the Chicago Tribune[24]
Legacy
Spektral Quartet left a lasting impact on contemporary chamber music, pushing the boundaries of traditional string quartet repertoire while fostering deep collaborations with composers, artists, and audiences. Their interdisciplinary projects, commitment to education, and dedication to new music established them as one of the most forward-thinking ensembles of their era.
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