„Yet another string quartet? No. Within all the present abundance, this group leaves a mark of its own. It has developed into an outstanding ensemble with just the right players in the right place. Among a number of remarkable primarias, Eugenia Ottaviano has turned out to be one of the finest, combining virtuoso control with fire, sensitivity and imagination“.
- Alfred Brendel
The Alinde Quartet, named after Schubert’s song, has earned an international reputation for its versatile repertoire and seamless blend of tradition and innovation. Whether performing on historical or modern instruments, their programs range from Renaissance works to Romantic string quartets and contemporary commissions. This artistic breath has brought them to some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Berliner Philharmonie, the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, the Konzerthaus in Berlin, and renowned festivals like Schleswig-Holstein and Verbier.
In the 2024–2025 season, the quartet will hold a prestigious residency as a Portrait Artist at the Cologne Philharmonie, another significant milestone in their artistic journey. Mentored by luminaries such as Eberhard Feltz, Günther Pichler, and Rainer Schmidt, their performance approach is rooted in thorough research and marked by a balance of meticulous detail and creative freedom.
Beyond their numerous concert appearances, the Alinde Quartet is deeply committed to fostering the musical education of the next generation. Through interactive formats such as participatory concerts, open rehearsals, and school projects, they invite children and young people to explore the fascinating world of chamber music in an engaging and accessible way. In workshops and family concerts at prestigious venues such as the Cologne Philharmonie and the Festspielhaus Baden-Baden, they create inspiring musical experiences that captivate young audiences and leave a lasting impression.
Since 2018, the Alinde Quartet has been immersed in the visionary project #Schubert200, an ambitious six-volume recording cycle in collaboration with Hänssler Classic and Deutschlandfunk. The goal of this project is to present fresh interpretations of all of Franz Schubert’s string quartets by 2028. In addition to their meticulous exploration of Schubert’s works, the quartet introduces a dynamic contemporary element by pairing each recording with a newly commissioned piece by some of today’s leading composers. With #Schubert200, the quartet emphasizes their commitment to preserving the depth and richness of the classical music tradition while boldly charting new paths in chamber music. This project goes beyond a traditional recording endeavor—it is an artistic journey that vividly demonstrates the relevance and vitality of Schubert’s music in the 21st century.
Organization type: Chamber EnsembleZülpicher Str. 357, 50935 Köln, Germany.