Flinders Quartet

Flinders Quartet

ERICA KENNEDY violin
MATTHEW TOMKINS violin
HELEN IRELAND viola
ZOE KNIGHTON ‘cello*

Formed in 2000, the Flinders Quartet has toured regularly for Musica Viva and is in demand at festivals throughout Australia, where it often appears in association with some of Australia’s finest talents. The quartet was Radio 3MBS FM’s inaugural selection as Artists in Residence, a position they held until 2006. ABC Radio’s Classic FM has also broadcast many of their performances.

Building on their 2006 Limelight Award and identification amongst Australia’s most influential artists, Flinders, in collaboration with new music ensemble Halcyon, were nominated for a 2007 ARIA award for their performance of Gillian Whitehead’s “Bright Forms Return” for string quartet and mezzo-soprano. 2007 also saw the quartet’s debut at the Sydney Opera House in the new Utzon Room series.

A European tour in the northern spring 2007 took Flinders to Switzerland, Sweden (including participation at Australia Week events in Stockholm), England and Scotland. Audience and promoter response to the quartet’s performances of a mix of traditional repertoire, contemporary and Australian composers has prompted a planned return tour for 2009.

A growing reputation as teachers and mentors has drawn the quartet to the attention of groups such as Youth Music Australia with whom the players continue to collaborate in developmental programs for young chamber groups.

All members of the quartet believe strongly that an active and varied musical life will enhance their artistic response as quartet players. As time outside their quartet schedule permits, they continue to work as soloists and in other chamber groups to the mutual benefit of Australian chamber music.

*ZOE KNIGHTON IS ALSO AVAILABLE AS A SOLOIST.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Four straight-backed, armless chairs. Four wire music stands.