Brandon Vamos is a distinguished cellist known for his exceptional artistry and contributions to the classical music scene. With a rich background in performance, he has participated in numerous acclaimed productions, showcasing his talent alongside renowned artists. Recently, he performed in the captivating Slavic Masterworks concert at Spottswoode Winery, where he brought to life masterpieces by T.J. Cole, Smetana, and Tchaikovsky, all while supporting music education initiatives. His past engagements also include the Chamber Music Workshop, where he guided aspiring musicians through timeless repertoire, fostering a collaborative spirit among participants. Looking ahead, Vamos is set to join the esteemed clarinetist Anthony McGill and the Grammy Award-winning Pacifica Quartet for an upcoming performance that promises to be a highlight of the classical music calendar. This event will feature a diverse program, including Dvořák's String Quartet No. 12 and Brahms' Clarinet Quintet, showcasing the deep musical connection between the artists. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for music education, Brandon Vamos continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians alike, making significant strides in the world of classical music.

Cellist

Experience an evening of exceptional classical music with the renowned clarinetist Anthony McGill and the Grammy Award-winning Pacifica Quartet. Anthony McGill, the first African-American principal clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic, is celebrated for his brilliance, penetrating sound, and rich character. His illustrious career includes performances with top orchestras worldwide and a notable appearance at President Barack Obama's 2009 inauguration. McGill's dedication to music education and advocacy for diversity in classical music further underscores his multifaceted contributions to the arts.

Joining McGill is the Pacifica Quartet, an ensemble acclaimed for its virtuosity, exuberant performance style, and daring repertory choices. With a career spanning nearly three decades, the Quartet has established itself as one of the finest chamber ensembles performing today. Their powerful energy and cohesive sound have earned them international recognition and numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards. The Pacifica Quartet is known for its masterful interpretations of string quartet cycles and its commitment to contemporary music, commissioning and performing new works by leading composers.

The program for the evening features a rich selection of works, including Dvořák's String Quartet Op. 96 American, Ben Shirley's High Sierra Sonata for Clarinet and Quartet, and Brahms' Clarinet Quintet in B Minor, Op. 115. This collaboration between McGill and the Pacifica Quartet promises a captivating performance, showcasing their exceptional artistry and deep musical connection.

EPSG:4326

Anthony McGill Clarinet & Pacifica Quartet

War Memorial and Performing Arts Center

### Event Description: Pacifica Quartet Concert

**Date and Time:** November 9, 2024, at 7:30 PM (Pre-concert talk at 6:30 PM)

**Location:** Sunset Center, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

**Program:**
- Samuel Barber: String Quartet in B Minor, Op. 11 (1936)
- George Crumb: Black Angels (1970)
- Antonín Dvořák: String Quartet No. 12 in F Major "American," Op. 96 (1893)

**Event Overview:**
Join the renowned Pacifica Quartet for an evening of exceptional string quartet performances at the Sunset Center in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA. The concert will feature a diverse program, including works by Samuel Barber, George Crumb, and Antonín Dvořák. The evening will begin with a pre-concert talk at 6:30 PM, providing insights into the pieces to be performed.

**About the Pacifica Quartet:**
Formed in 1994, the Pacifica Quartet has quickly risen to prominence, winning numerous prestigious awards and accolades. Known for their powerful energy and cohesive sound, the ensemble has established itself as a leading interpreter of string quartet cycles. The members of the Pacifica Quartet are Simin Ganatra (violin), Austin Hartman (violin), Mark Holloway (viola), and Brandon Vamos (cello).

**Tickets:**
Tickets for the event are available for purchase. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the Pacifica Quartet's electrifying performance, which has been praised for its audacity and astonishing skill.

**Contact and Additional Information:**
For more details and to purchase tickets, please visit the event website.

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Experience an unforgettable night of music with the Pacifica Quartet, where each performance promises to draw you into a world of breathtaking artistry and emotional depth.

Pacifica Quartet

Sunset Center Theater

Faculty String Quartet-in-Residence – Pacifica Quartet: Simin Ganatra, violin; Austin Hartman, violin; Mark Holloway, viola; Brandon Vamos, cello

Auer Hall

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Viennese Romantics at the picturesque Markham Vineyards. Set against the backdrop of St Helena, California, this exclusive event is scheduled for Sunday, August 18th, 2024, at 5:00 pm. Dive into the heart of Vienna during the era of Brahms and Korngold, and experience a musical journey that celebrates the genius of these composers alongside the remarkable talents of Clara Schumann and Fanny Mendelssohn.

The evening promises a rich program beginning with Brahms' Scherzo from the FAE Sonata, showcasing the virtuosity of violinist Simin Ganatra and pianist Michael Stephen Brown. The legacy of women in music is highlighted through Clara Schumann's Romances, op. 22, and Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel's String Quartet in E flat major, H.277, revealing the depth and complexity of their compositions. Erich Wolfgang Korngold's Piano Quintet in E major, op.15, performed by the acclaimed Pacifica Quartet alongside Michael Stephen Brown, will transport you to the early 20th century Vienna, reflecting Korngold's brilliance as a child prodigy.

Hosted at the scenic Markham Vineyards, located at 2812 St Helena Hwy North, St Helena, CA 94574, this event is a must-attend for classical music enthusiasts and those looking to experience the profound beauty and emotion of Viennese Romantic music. Tickets are priced at $85, offering an opportunity to not only enjoy timeless music but also the breathtaking beauty of the vineyards.

Don't miss this exquisite evening of music, history, and the scenic charm of Napa Valley. Book your tickets now for an unforgettable journey through the Viennese Romantics, where the past and present merge in harmonious celebration.

Viennese Romantics

Markham Vineyards

Join us for an exquisite Chamber Music Workshop titled "Music in the Vineyards" on Saturday, August 17th, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm. This unique event, "An Echo in the Vineyards," will be held at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 1333 3rd St, Napa, CA 94559. 

Designed for accomplished adult enthusiasts, including advanced high school and college students, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to meet like-minded musicians and play in small ensembles. Participants will receive ensemble music in advance to prepare for a collaborative and enriching experience. 

The workshop will feature guidance and insights from Michael Adams and the 2024 Fellowship String Quartet, the Cabaletta Quartet. Attendees who also purchase tickets for the Community Concert at 5 pm will enjoy reserved front-row seating and the chance to participate in the Pachelbel play-along.

The repertoire includes timeless pieces such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, Luigi Boccherini's Night Music of the Streets of Madrid, Antonio Vivaldi's Concerto for Four Violins and Strings, Giovanni Bottesini's Grand Duo Concertante, and Johann Pachelbel's Canon in D Major.

Participation is priced at $10 per student, with free admission for students. This workshop not only promises a day filled with beautiful chamber music but also offers a platform for musicians to connect and create lasting memories. 

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of chamber music amidst the scenic backdrop of Napa. Book your spot now and be part of a community that celebrates music education and participatory experiences for all ages and walks of life.

Chamber Music Workshop

Presbyterian Day School

Join us for an enchanting evening of Slavic Masterworks at the picturesque Spottswoode Winery, nestled in the heart of St Helena, CA. This unique outdoor performance is scheduled for Friday, August 16th, 2024, starting at 5:00 pm, promising an unforgettable experience amidst the vineyards.

This concert features a selection of masterpieces that explore the rich tapestry of Slavic music, including the commissioned work "Playtime" by T.J. Cole, which captures the world through the lens of childhood wonder. The program also highlights Bedřich Smetana's autobiographical string quartet "From My Life," offering a glimpse into the composer's life in 1875. Additionally, the evening will showcase Tchaikovsky's "Souvenir de Florence," a piece that reflects the composer's love for Italy, always a favorite among audiences.

The performance will be brought to life by an ensemble of talented musicians, including David Kim, Cindy Wu, Simin Gantra, Henry Rogers, Austin Hartman, and many others, each contributing their expertise to create a memorable musical journey.

Tickets are priced at $85, offering access to this exclusive concert on the lawn in front of the historic Spottswoode estate. This event not only promises a night of exquisite music but also supports ECHO Education & Outreach, providing music education and participatory experiences to diverse audiences.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Slavic music, set against the backdrop of one of California's most beautiful wineries. Book your tickets now and prepare for an evening that celebrates the legacy and beauty of Slavic compositions.

Slavic Masterworks

 Spottswoode Winery

Join us for an enchanting evening of classical music with the renowned Pacifica Quartet at the Music in the Vineyards festival. This special performance is scheduled for Wednesday, August 14th, 2024, at the picturesque Hudson House located within Beringer Vineyards, 2000 Main St, St Helena, CA 94574.

The evening will commence with a Pre-Concert Talk at 6:00 pm, offering insightful discussions on Dvorak in America, and the creation of his American quartet, led by Artistic Director Michael Adams. The concert itself will begin at 7:00 pm, featuring a meticulously curated program that includes:

- Louis Gruenberg's Four Diversions for String Quartet, op. 32, a piece that harks back to the composer's Lithuanian roots and his final years in Beverly Hills.
- Dmitri Shostakovich's Quartet no. 3 in F major, op. 73, a rare gem from 1936, crafted as a means for the composer to navigate the treacherous waters of Stalin’s purge.
- Antonín Dvořák's Quartet in F major, op. 96, "American", a signature piece that encapsulates Dvořák's experiences and observations during his time in the United States.

The Pacifica Quartet, composed of Simin Ganatra and Austin Hartman on violins, Mark Holloway on viola, and Brandon Vamos on cello, promises to deliver a performance that is as breathtaking as the vineyard setting itself.

Tickets are priced at $85, offering not just a concert but an immersive experience that includes the pre-concert talk, the stunning backdrop of the Beringer Vineyards, and the opportunity to engage with music education and outreach initiatives through Echo in the Vineyards.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience classical music at its finest, set against the backdrop of Napa Valley's renowned wine country. Book your tickets now for an unforgettable night with the Pacifica Quartet at Music in the Vineyards.

The Pacifica Quartet

Beringer Vineyards

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of chamber music as the Pacifica Quartet graces the stage at Caramoor on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at 3:00 PM. Held in the intimate setting of the Chamber Music Room, this performance promises to be a highlight of the musical season in Katonah, NY.

Celebrating nearly three decades of unparalleled musicianship, the Pacifica Quartet, Caramoor’s 2001-2002 Ernst Stiefel String Quartet-in-residence, returns to captivate audiences with their virtuosity and infectious energy. The program for the afternoon includes Erich Wolfgang Korngold's String Quartet No. 3 in D Major, Op. 34, Louis Gruenberg's Four Diversions for String Quartet, Op. 32, and one of Ludwig van Beethoven's late quartets, the String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132, showcasing the ensemble's versatility and deep musical insight.

The Pacifica Quartet, composed of Simin Ganatra and Austin Hartman on violins, Mark Holloway on viola, and Brandon Vamos on cello, has earned international acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards for their exuberant performance style and daring repertoire choices. As current faculty string quartet-in-residence at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, they continue to push the boundaries of chamber music.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the senior American quartet sound in the beautiful surroundings of Caramoor. Tickets are available now for purchase. Join us for a performance that promises to be both brilliant and breathtaking, as the Pacifica Quartet showcases the evolution of chamber music through their cohesive sound and captivating energy.

The Rosen House at Caramoor

Faculty/Guest Chamber Music Recital – Orli Shaham, guest piano, with Norman Krieger, piano, and the Pacifica Quartet

Renowned for their definitive performances of works spanning three centuries, the Pacifica Quartet pairs one of Ludwig van Beethoven’s late masterpieces for string quartet with three works by American masters, including a new work by composer James Lee III, written for the quartet and Metropolitan Opera soprano Karen Slack under a commission by Carnegie Hall, Baltimore’s Shriver Hall, Chamber Music Cincinnati, and Chamber Music Detroit.

Pacifica Quartet & Karen Slack, soprano

Detroit Country Day School - Upper School

When the Pacifica Quartet and guitarist Sharon Isbin join forces, magic happens. They’ll begin with Sharon Isbin’s own arrangement of Vivaldi’s delightful Guitar Concerto in D. Joseph Schwantner's Song of a Dreaming Sparrow was commissioned by the 92nd Street Y in New York and received its world premiere last November. It’s the second work Schwantner composed for the multiple Grammy Award-winning guitarist. The title is a line from Thoreau’s, “A Week on the Concord and Merrimack River” a narrative of a boat trip Thoreau took with his brother John in 1839: “At intervals we were serenaded by the song of a dreaming sparrow.” The collaboration resumes with the catchy Fandango from Boccherini’s Guitar Quintet No. 4. Beethoven’s astonishing and profound late string quartet in A minor concludes the program. Its famous third movement entitled “Song of Thanksgiving to the Deity from a convalescent in the Lydian mode” is a prayer of gratitude following illness and an expression of joy for the gift of life. Don’t miss this evening of extraordinary artistry as Sharon Isbin and the Pacifica Quartet take the stage in Harris Concert Hall!

Recital: Pacifica Quartet and Sharon Isbin

Aspen Meadows Resort

Recognized for its virtuosity, exuberance, and daring repertory choices, the Grammy Award-winning Pacifica Quartet — Simin Ganatra (violin), Austin Hartman (violin), Mark Holloway (viola), Brandon Vamos (cello) — has achieved international recognition as one of the finest chamber ensembles performing today. Formed in 1994, the ensemble quickly won chamber music’s top competitions, including the 1998 Naumburg Chamber Music Award. For its Wallis debut, the quartet is joined by the brilliantly multi-faceted Anthony McGill, principal clarinet of the New York Philharmonic, an exceptional soloist in his own right. These spectacular musicians will bring the beauty and depth of chamber music to their Wallis debut.

Anthony McGill & The Pacifica Quartet

The Walls Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts

Acclaimed for her extraordinary lyricism, technique and versatility, multiple GRAMMY Award winner Sharon Isbin was named Musical America Worldwide’s 2020 Instrumentalist of the Year, the first guitarist ever to receive the coveted honor in their 59-year award history. She was inducted into the 2023 Guitar Foundation of America Hall of Fame and received their Artistic Achievement Award. Hailed as “the pre-eminent guitarist of our time”, she is the winner of Guitar Player magazine’s Best Classical Guitarist award, Germany’s Echo Klassik, Concert Artists Guild’s Virtuoso Award, the Toronto and Madrid Queen Sofia competitions, and the first guitarist to win the Munich ARD Competition. Isbin has appeared as soloist with over 200 orchestras and has given sold-out performances in many of the world’s finest halls across 40 countries, including New York’s Carnegie and Geffen Halls, Boston’s Symphony Hall, Washington D.C.’s Kennedy Center, Philadelphia’s Kimmel Center, London’s Barbican and Wigmore Halls, Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw, Paris’ Châtelet, Vienna’s Musikverein, Munich’s Herkulessaal, Argentina’s Teatro Colón, and Madrid’s Teatro Real. She has served as Artistic Director and soloist of festivals she created for Carnegie Hall and the Ordway Music Theatre (St. Paul), New York’s 92NY, and the national radio series Guitarjam.

Brandon Vamos

Cellist

Events

Upcoming events

Jan 19, 2025

Sharon Isbin, guitar, with the Pacifica String Quartet · Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival

Past events

Dec 3, 2024

Anthony McGill Clarinet & Pacifica Quartet · San Francisco Performances

Nov 9, 2024

Pacifica Quartet · Chamber Music Monterey Bay

Future and recently performed repertoire

Cello in Playtime by Cole

Music in the Vineyards

Cello in Canon in D Major by Pachelbel

Music in the Vineyards

Cello in String Quartet by Hensel

Music in the Vineyards

Cello in String Quartet No. 12 by

San Francisco Performances

About

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