The string quartet, introduced in the mid-eighteenth century, continues to be a popular fixture in music. The four-member group represents each of the traditional components of a string 
orchestra—first violin, second violin, cello, and bass. Its compact size allows composers to experiment and introduce innovations. Moreover, the instruments in a string quartet mimic the range and tone of the human vocal ranges of soprano, alto, tenor, and bass.

The timbre of a string quartet promotes a balance of simplicity and complexity. The individual instruments produce their own well-defined pitches, but they also blend beautifully. They facilitate the expression of both exalted and uncomplicated emotions and stories. Beginning with such composers as Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Mozart, and Ludwig van Beethoven, the string quartet developed a following that makes it just as relevant now as it was when it was introduced.

About Calder Quartet
Renowned for its masterful performances of string quartets by historic and modern artists, Calder Quartet plays for audiences around the world. Such composers as Terry Riley, Thomas Adès, and Christopher Rouse rely on the group to present their new work. In coming months, Calder Quartet plans to perform in Seattle, Amsterdam, and New York City.

Alexander CalderA true 20th century art innovator, sculptor Alexander Calder's creations reflect his training as a mechanical engineer with an innate artistic sensitivity. Calder made significant contributions to kinetic art, art in motion or containing moving parts, and is best known as the originator of the mobile.Today, Calder's influence extends beyond artistic horizons into music. Inspired by Calder's ground-breaking creativity, the renowned Calder Quartet, a top-tier U.S. string ensemble, seeks to embody immediacy and vitality in the musical works they perform. Much like their artistic namesake, the Calder Quartet extends boundaries and blends diverse influences to create engaging artistic performances. 

During his career, Alexander Calder became known through exhibitions, commissions, and performances of his unique Cirque Calder, a toy circus designed from found objects such as wire, string, rubber, and cloth. Calder fit his portable circus materials into suitcases, which allowed him to traverse the Atlantic and give performances in both New York and Paris. Ultimately, the Circque Calder gained popularity among the Parisian avant-garde.

In his Cirque Calder, the artist sought to re-create the performance of a real circus. Similarly, the Calder Quartet endeavors to capture the true intention of each work's composer to provide authentic and artistically crafted concert experiences for audiences worldwide.

For nearly a decade, the Carlsbad Music Festival has been a popular annual event in the village of Carlsbad, California. For three days every September, the Carlsbad Music Festival delights crowds with numerous artists representing a wide array of musical styles. The winner of the American Society of Composers, Authors, & Publishers/Country Music Association's 2010 Award for Adventurous Programming, this celebration has received praise from the Los Angeles Times, KPBS Radio, and Bloomberg News.

To learn more about the experience, log onto www.carlsbadmusicfestival.org. This page contains an event schedule, which gives details about the free Village Music Walk that kicks off the weekend and other festival events. The website allows visitors to purchase tickets online, and provides updates about who will be performing. The page also contains information about partner hotels and restaurants that support the Carlsbad Music Festival.

About the Author:

Founded at the University of Southern California (USC) Thornton School of Music, The Calder Quartet has played to audiences across the world and on television. This group has served as the Founding Ensemble-in-Residence for the Carlsbad Music Festival since its genesis in 2003.