
Balourdet Quartet
Experience the Brilliance of the Balourdet Quartet
The Balourdet Quartet continues to captivate audiences around the world with its vibrant energy, refined technique, and emotional depth. Known for its fresh approach to both cherished classics and cutting-edge compositions, the Quartet brings a dynamic presence to every performance.
Their deep musical connection and fearless artistic choices have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, the Balourdet Quartet was honored with two of the most prestigious awards in chamber music: the Avery Fisher Career Grant and Chamber Music America’s Cleveland Quartet Award. These honors recognize the group’s innovation, cohesion, and rising influence in the field.
Balourdet Quartet: National Debuts and New Commissions
With a demanding schedule of more than 70 performances each season, the Balourdet Quartet continues to reach new artistic heights. Recent highlights include their acclaimed debuts at Carnegie Hall and Wigmore Hall, two of the most iconic venues in the classical music world.
In addition to performing celebrated repertoire, the Quartet is also committed to championing new music. Their recent premieres of works by Karim Al-Zand, Paul Novak, and Nicky Sohn—supported by grants from Chamber Music America (2021) and the Barlow Foundation (2023)—reflect their mission to expand and enrich the string quartet tradition.
A Quartet in Residence and on the Rise
The ensemble currently serves as the Graduate Quartet in Residence at the prestigious Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. They are also proud alumni of the New England Conservatory’s Professional String Quartet Program, where they honed their craft under leading mentors. These positions have further shaped their identity as bold, expressive musicians with a vision for the future of chamber music.
About the Back Deck Concert Series
Launched in July 2020, the Back Deck series has quickly become one of the region’s most exciting cultural offerings. To date, the Museum’s elevated parking deck has hosted over 72 live performances featuring both established and emerging talent. The series has drawn more than 11,000 patrons and received glowing reviews from both local and national media outlets.
Each summer, the Back Deck transforms into a vibrant outdoor stage where audiences enjoy world-class music, elegant tailgates, and a welcoming community atmosphere. With its unique blend of casual charm and artistic excellence, the Back Deck continues to redefine the live concert experience in the region.