Project Description
Hailing from Prince Edward Island, California, Pennsylvania, and Taiwan, the Ulysses Quartet was founded in the summer of 2015. They are the 2016 String Division Gold Medalists and Grand Prize Winners of the Fischoff Competition. Members have performed in prestigious halls such as Esterházy Palace, Carnegie Hall, and the Taiwan National Concert Hall. Their exciting first season together includes the Banff International String Quartet Competition, and concertizing with the Halcyon, Listen Closely and Massivemuse Series. Members perform on instruments and bows graciously on loan from the Canada Council of the Arts Instrument Bank and the Maestro Foundation.
The name ‘Ulysses’ pays homage to Homer’s hero Odysseus and his ten year voyage home. Additionally, the quartet’s base in Washington Heights, New York City, lies in close proximity to the resting place of former U.S. president, Ulysses S. Grant. The Ulysses Quartet believes intensely in the power of music to inspire, enlighten, and bring people together. They are committed in sharing this passion by increasing access and appreciation for classical music while enhancing audience engagement. To this end, the quartet offers interactive programs and workshops for all ages that demystify traditional repertoire while introducing new and exciting works. Their programs invite participants to learn about the inner workings of the string quartet, and explore connections that music makes with our world today, through the rich history of its creation.