Munster Express Online

There’s a real treat in store for lovers of chamber music at the next Waterford Music event which features the Badke Quartet, formed in 2002 but already recognised as one of the finest string quartets of its generation. Noted for its rhythmic energy and intensity, the ensemble won both first prize and audience prize in the 2007 Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition.

In addition to performing in some of the UK’s most prestigious chamber music venues such as the Wigmore Hall and the Royal Festival Hall, the quartet has appeared at festivals throughout Europe, including Montreux, Aldeburgh, Lichfield, West Cork and Mecklenburg. No strangers to the airwaves, the Quartet have broadcast live on Classic FM, Lyric FM, ABC Classic FM (Australia) and BBC Radio 3.

With quartet co-founders Heather Badke (USA), Emma Parker (UK) and Jonathan Byers (NI) will be their new viola player, Eniko Magyar (Hungary), winner of the 2007 Theodore Holland prize.

As well as leading the quartet, Heather performs regularly with the London Philharmonic, Royal Philharmonic and the BBC Philharmonic Orchestras. Emma plays with the Irish Baroque Orchestra and Opera Theatre Company as well as playing alongside artists such as Paul McCartney, Elton John and Shirley Bassey, while Jonathan Byers has performed with the Irish Baroque, RTÉ National Symphony and Ulster Orchestras.

Promoted in conjunction with Music Network the programme will include works by Haydn, Ian Wilson and Schumann.

Saturday 28th March 8.00 pm. Large Room, City Hall, Waterford. Admission €15.00, Students €5.00. Tickets available at the door.

www.waterford-music.org