The Friends of Ciompi
Friends of the Ciompi Quartet make it possible for the ensemble to sustain its commitment to bring chamber music to Duke, Durham, and the world. By becoming a Friend, you join a tradition that reaches back more than five decades. With your support the quartet can continue to maintain that legacy through some of the following initiatives.
Invite Distinguished Collaborators
Recent distinguished guests have included Branford Marsalis, Nnenna Freelon, Julianne Baird, Oliver Cavé, Awadagin Pratt, James Tocco.
Tour Internationally
The Quartet has toured throughout Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and the Americas.
Create Acclaimed Recordings
The ensemble has recorded for the CRI, Arabesque, Albany, Gasparo, Naxos, Sheffield Lab, and Toccata Classics labels.
Commission New Works
The Ciompi Quartet has premiered hundreds of new works by such composers as David Kirkland Garner, Stephen Jaffe, Scott Lindroth, Carl Schimmel, Paul Schoenfield, Melinda Wagner, Robert Ward, and Donald Wheelock.
Benefits of Friendship
Become a Friend of the Ciompi Quartet with a gift of $100 or more. Contributions to the Ciompi Quartet are fully tax-deductible.
Checks to the Ciompi Quartet Fund can be sent to Duke University Box 90940, Durham, NC
Donate Online To Become a Friend of Ciompi
NOTE: Donations and made through www.duke.edu. Search for the “Ciompi Quartet Fund”.
The Portfolio Project
The Ciompi Quartet Portfolio Project is a very special program for emerging composers which began in the summer of 2020 as a way for the Quartet to engage with composers in Duke Music’s graduate program during the COVID-19 pandemic, when live performances were curtailed and composers and performers needed creative outlets for their music. Premier performances of works by Duke and UNC-G graduate composers. Ciompi commissions current Duke graduate composers to write short string quartet movements which are then rehearsed, workshopped and performed by Ciompi.
Learn More About The Portfolio Project
A Part of the Duke University Family
Undergraduate string players at Duke study with members of the Ciompi Quartet as part of their curriculum. Students of all levels reach toward their full potential under the guidance of their teacher-mentors. Along with individual lessons, Ciompi members hold frequent class recitals and workshops for all to participate in; as they progress in ability, students can choose to give full-length recitals as well. Chamber music classes organized by quartet members each semester are also popular and open to all interested students. The Quartet members regularly invite colleagues and musical luminaries to give master classes. Being a string player at Duke means choosing from innumerable opportunities that offer the chance to stretch one’s abilities to new heights; time and ambition are the only limitations!
Residencies and Workshops
The Ciompi Quartet is available for short term residencies and workshops at your institution. While in town for a concert, they can conduct string masterclasses, and in some cases be available for private instruction. Experience a workshop with the Ciompi Quartet, and enrich your academic curriculum. Concert/workshop combinations are also available.