The Terpsycordes Quartet redefines the connection between a musical ensemble and its audience. It invents new ways to experience a concert of chamber music and is committed to reaching underprivileged as well as young audiences, in order to share its art with as many people as possible.
Formed in Geneva in 1997, guided by the artistic vision of Gábor Takács-Nagy and nurtured by the teachings of members of the Amadeus, Budapest, Hagen, Lasalle, and Mosaïques quartets, the Terpsycordes Quartet quickly made its mark on the musical scene, notably winning First Prize at the Geneva Competition in 2001, as well as other international competitions (Weimar, Graz, Trapani). Encounters with major 20th century composers such as György Kurtág and Sofia Gubaidulina, as well as personalities from the world of baroque music, including Gabriel Garrido, Chiara Banchini, Florence Malgoire, and Leonardo García Alarcón, contributed to defining and refining the quartet’s aesthetic evolution. Members of the Quartet continue to play regularly with various other ensembles such as Cappella Mediterranea, Gli Angeli Genève, Contrechamps, l’Armée des Romantiques, or Elyma.
The repertoire of the Terpsycordes Quartet spans from the pre-classical period to contemporary creations. Since 2021, it has been performing a complete cycle of Joseph Haydn’s quartets on period instruments at the Museum of Art and History in Geneva, while maintaining a special relationship with major 20th century Genevan composers – Ernest Bloch and Frank Martin. This new album, entirely dedicated to the works of Frank Martin, adds to a discography ranging from Haydn to Piazzolla, widely acclaimed by critics.
The Terpsycordes Quartet is actively engaged in social and educational projects. It offers concerts in partnership with foundations, associations, and facilities for the disabled, those in precarious situations, or in detention. It also collaborates with schools in the City of Geneva. It breaks conventions by offering unique experiences aimed at sharing its passion, including outdoor concerts in unusual locations, musical bike rides, or public rehearsals, thus creating original opportunities to introduce the magic of chamber music to diverse audiences.
The Terpsycordes Quartet is supported by the City of Geneva and by the Republic and Canton of Geneva.