Texas Performing Arts Presents Sphinx Virtuosi and Catalyst Quartet at Bass Concert Hall on 10/2
By: Louisa Brady Aug. 28, 2014
The Sphinx Virtuosi, led by the Catalyst Quartet, is one of the nation's most dynamic professional chamber orchestras. This 18-piece conductorless orchestra is comprised of alumni of the internationally renowned Sphinx Competition for young Black and Latino string players. These critically acclaimed cultural ambassadors unite each fall for a national tour.
Based in Detroit, Michigan, the Annual Sphinx Competition began in 1997. The competition gives Black and Latino classical string players a chance to compete, work with an internationally renowned panel of judges, and to perform with professional musicians. The New York Times described The Sphinx Virtuosi (formerly Sphinx Chamber Orchestra) as "first-rate in every way...they produced a more beautiful, precise, and carefully shaped sound than some fully professional orchestras that come through Carnegie Hall in the course of the year." Inspired by Sphinx's overarching mission, the Sphinx Virtuosi works to advance diversity in classical music while engaging young and new audiences through performances of varied repertoire. The New York Times hailed the Catalyst Quartet as "invariably energetic and finely burnished...playing with earthy vigor." Prizewinner of the Gianni Bergamo Classical Music Award 2012, the string quartet is comprised of alumni and top Laureates of the Sphinx Competition. In addition to leading the Sphinx Virtuosi on the annual national tours, Catalyst Quartet maintains a busy performing schedule of its own. Catalyst Quartet members are Karla Donehew Perez and Jessie Montgomery, violin; Paul Laraia, viola; and Karlos Rodriguez, cello.Comments
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