Harlem Quartet

Special concert event sponsored by the Sear Family Foundation

The Brick Church for the Performing Arts is pleased to present this special concert, courtesy of the Sear Family Foundation.  The Grammy-winning Harlem Quartet, featuring Ilmar Gavilán, Melissa White, Jaime Amador, and Felix Umansky, has earned acclaim for its dynamic performances and fresh approach to classical music. The New York Times praised their “panache,” while the Cincinnati Enquirer lauded their “new attitude to classical music.” Grammy-winning woodwind virtuoso Ted Nash of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra has been quoted saying, "Harlem Quartet is one of the greatest string quartets I have ever heard. They can play anything."

This ensemble has performed in 47 states and four continents, has been featured on numerous national television spots such as the Today Show and News Hour, and has even performed for first lady Michelle Obama at the White House. They are most well-known for their innovative programming, both through their own work and collaborations, which seamlessly mixes classical repertoire with jazz, and Latin, as well as contemporary works by composers from underrepresented backgrounds, championing diversity in classical music to their core. Equally dedicated to education, Harlem Quartet engages communities through residencies and outreach programs, fostering a love for music among diverse audiences. Their commitment has been recognized through prestigious grants, such as the Cultural Connections Artist-In-Residence grant from James Madison University and the 2016 Guarneri String Quartet grant from Chamber Music America, facilitating impactful community partnerships and educational initiatives. Harlem Quartet has also served as quartet-in-residence at institutions such as the John J. Cali School of Music in Montclair and the Royal College of Music in London.

In collaboration with renowned artists like pianists Michael Brown and Awadagin Pratt, clarinetists Paquito D’Rivera and Anthony McGill, and jazz legends Stanley Clarke and John Patitucci, the quartet continues to push musical boundaries. Harlem Quartet's ongoing partnership with Imani Winds has resulted in acclaimed performances and a 2023 GRAMMY Award for their recording Passion for BACH & COLTRANE.