Pacifica Quartet to Deliver Captivating Performance in Tryon

The Tryon Concert Association is set to present the acclaimed Pacifica Quartet on November 18, 2025, at the Tryon Fine Arts Center. This concert marks the second event in the association’s 2025-2026 chamber music season. The performance will begin at 19:30 local time, showcasing the ensemble’s signature blend of virtuosity and innovative programming.

Formed in 1994, the Pacifica Quartet has garnered a prestigious reputation in the world of chamber music. The ensemble comprises four accomplished musicians: Simin Ganatra (violin), Austin Hartmann (violin), Mark Holloway (viola), and Brandon Vamos (cello). Their accolades include the 1998 Naumberg Chamber Music Award, Chamber Music America’s Cleveland Quartet Award, and an Avery Fisher Career Grant. The quartet also won a Grammy Award for their recording of Contemporary Voices, featuring works by three Pulitzer Prize-winning composers.

The Pacifica Quartet has performed in major cities worldwide, including New York City, San Francisco, and London. Their current season includes notable appearances at the Library of Congress and the Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival, alongside their concert in Tryon. Their repertoire spans the complete cycles of renowned composers such as Elliot Carter, Mendelssohn, Beethoven, and Shostakovich. Additionally, they have actively commissioned new works from contemporary composers like Keeril Makan, Julia Wolfe, and Shulamit Ran.

Program Highlights

The program for the Tryon concert promises to be an engaging experience. It features String Quartet No. 1, Op. 57 by Charles Ives, a notable piece that incorporates familiar hymns presented in a unique manner. Ives, who played the organ at Center Church in New Haven during his time at Yale University, stirred controversy with his innovative interpretations of traditional hymns.

Another highlight is Erich Korngold’s String Quartet No. 3 in D major, Op. 34. Written during Korngold’s Hollywood years, this composition draws heavily from his film scores. Movie enthusiasts might recognize themes from films such as Between Two Worlds and The Sea Wolf embedded within this work.

The evening will conclude with Antonín Dvořák’s String Quartet in F major, Op. 96, commonly referred to as the “American” quartet. Composed during Dvořák’s stay in Spillville, Iowa, this piece reflects his affection for the Iowa landscape, reminiscent of his native Bohemia, enriched by the birdsong he encountered during his walks.

For additional information regarding this concert and other upcoming performances, interested individuals can visit tryonconcerts.org or call 888-501-0297. This concert promises to be a significant highlight of the chamber music season in Tryon, celebrating both classical and contemporary compositions in an intimate setting.