The Acis String Quartet, founded in 2024, is a vibrant new force in classical music, growing from the legacy of Galatea Chamber Music. Known for their dynamic and unforgettable performances, the quartet's members are united by a deep commitment to musical excellence and creative collaboration. Through innovative outreach programs such as “Hear Between Every Note,” “Music for Life,” and “New Wave Chamber Music Week,” they forge meaningful connections with diverse audiences. Their dedication to accessibility is exemplified by a series of free concerts throughout the year, ensuring chamber music reaches everyone.
In their debut season, the Acis Quartet will bring their compelling artistry to the VA Beach/Chesapeake area, Northern VA, D.C., and Maryland. Highlights include a performance of Jessie Montgomery’s “Banner for String Quartet and String Orchestra” at the Great Falls Philharmonic concert series in November, as well as appearances on the Epiphany Tuesday Concert Series in D.C., the Historical Cokesbury Culture Center series in Onancock, VA, and the Music at Lake Barcroft series in Falls Church, VA.
The name “Acis” is inspired by Greek mythology. Acis, a shepherd loved by the Nereid Galatea, was tragically killed by the envious Cyclops Polyphemus. In an act of deep devotion, Galatea transformed him into an immortal river spirit, giving him a new and eternal life.
In their debut season, the Acis Quartet will bring their compelling artistry to the VA Beach/Chesapeake area, Northern VA, D.C., and Maryland. Highlights include a performance of Jessie Montgomery’s “Banner for String Quartet and String Orchestra” at the Great Falls Philharmonic concert series in November, as well as appearances on the Epiphany Tuesday Concert Series in D.C., the Historical Cokesbury Culture Center series in Onancock, VA, and the Music at Lake Barcroft series in Falls Church, VA.
The name “Acis” is inspired by Greek mythology. Acis, a shepherd loved by the Nereid Galatea, was tragically killed by the envious Cyclops Polyphemus. In an act of deep devotion, Galatea transformed him into an immortal river spirit, giving him a new and eternal life.
Johnathan Spence
Violinist |
Hoorig Poochikian
Violinist |
|
The Story
The story of the Acis String Quartet began with violinist Johnathan Spence, who founded Galatea Chamber Music in 2022 with the vision of growing a quartet in residence. Johnathan’s goal was to present chamber music concerts accessible to everyone, free of charge, believing that the true value of music goes beyond admission fees. His own journey, supported by his mother, the church, and his community, inspired him to give back and make chamber music available to all. Despite the challenges, including funding concerts out of his own pocket and the struggle to sustain the free concert series, Johnathan remained committed to his vision.
Johnathan’s path eventually led him to reconnect with violinist Hoorig Poochikian. Hoorig, who shares Johnathan’s profound love for chamber music, had also attended the same doctoral program at Stony Brook University a few years after him and studied under their shared mentor, Hagai Shaham. Their friendship, built through chamber music camps and shared experiences in life, made Hoorig a perfect partner in this journey.
Cellist Emma Hays Johnson has been a dedicated supporter of Johnathan’s initiatives since 2015, contributing to what evolved into “New Wave Chamber Music Week.” Even when there was no promise of compensation, Emma’s commitment to the mission and to nurturing young musicians was unwavering. Her passion and support have been a guiding light in the organization’s growth.
During the recent New Wave Chamber Music Week, violist Dave Phillips, a dear friend of Johnathan's, joined as a guest musician and mentor. Moved by the shared vision of Hoorig, Emma, and Johnathan, Dave felt a strong alignment with the mission of Galatea Chamber Music. His insights inspired the group to elevate and solidify their mission. Dave’s enthusiasm and commitment led to a formal invitation to join the ensemble, and thus, the Acis String Quartet was born.
Together, the Acis String Quartet represents a commitment to community, education, and the enduring impact of chamber music, brought to life through their collective dedication to musical excellence and shared passion.
Johnathan’s path eventually led him to reconnect with violinist Hoorig Poochikian. Hoorig, who shares Johnathan’s profound love for chamber music, had also attended the same doctoral program at Stony Brook University a few years after him and studied under their shared mentor, Hagai Shaham. Their friendship, built through chamber music camps and shared experiences in life, made Hoorig a perfect partner in this journey.
Cellist Emma Hays Johnson has been a dedicated supporter of Johnathan’s initiatives since 2015, contributing to what evolved into “New Wave Chamber Music Week.” Even when there was no promise of compensation, Emma’s commitment to the mission and to nurturing young musicians was unwavering. Her passion and support have been a guiding light in the organization’s growth.
During the recent New Wave Chamber Music Week, violist Dave Phillips, a dear friend of Johnathan's, joined as a guest musician and mentor. Moved by the shared vision of Hoorig, Emma, and Johnathan, Dave felt a strong alignment with the mission of Galatea Chamber Music. His insights inspired the group to elevate and solidify their mission. Dave’s enthusiasm and commitment led to a formal invitation to join the ensemble, and thus, the Acis String Quartet was born.
Together, the Acis String Quartet represents a commitment to community, education, and the enduring impact of chamber music, brought to life through their collective dedication to musical excellence and shared passion.
|
|
© Galatea Chamber Music 2024