Ezgi Su Apaydin, Violin
Laura Muskare, violin
Frederick Winterson, cello
Founded in 2020, the Velvet Quartet brings together four young musicians from Turkey, Latvia, Spain, and Germany. Based in Essen and Berlin, the quartet’s artistic journey began under the guidance of Andreas Reiner and continues with the mentorship of Oliver Wille and Quatuor Ébène.
Since then they have been influenced by world-class chamber musicians such as the Belcea Quartet, Cuarteto Casals, Kuss Quartett, Modigliani Quartet, Gerhard Schulz (Alban Berg Quartett),Gregor Sigl, Heime Müller (Artemis Quartett), Adrian Brendel, Barbara Mauer among others.
The quartet has gained recognition in international competitions, including 1st place at the 2024 Gianni Bergamo Classic Music Award in Lugano and Köhler Osbahr Chamber Music Competition, and has performed at prestigious events such as the String Quartet Biennale at the Philharmonie de Paris. They have also been in residence at the Vibre! String Quartet Festival in Bordeaux and are scholarship recipients of the W. Richard – Dr. Dörken Foundation, performing concerts across Germany and featuring live on WDR 3. Additionally, the Velvet Quartet is part of the “Le Dimore del Quartetto” program.
The quartet is known for its versatility, blending the classical string quartet repertoire with interdisciplinary collaborations, such as their recent work with dancers from Essen’s Aalto Theater in the production Last.
With a commitment to both classical traditions and innovative projects, the Velvet Quartet continues to evolve and inspire audiences worldwide.
