2026-2027 Season

Academy String Quartet

 

“Four by Two”

The season concludes with one of Pittsburgh’s finest chamber ensembles, the Academy String Quartet, whose members have been among the region’s leading professional musicians since the ensemble’s founding in 2008.

Their Johnstown program, entitled “Four by Two,” offers audiences a fascinating exploration of chamber music by presenting works for both the full string quartet and smaller combinations of two performers.

Highlights include:

• Jesse Montgomery’s vibrant contemporary work Strum
• A delightful operatic fantasy by Charles Dancla
• Duets by Luciano Berio
• Music by Ignaz Pleyel
• A setting of a Ukrainian folk song by Pittsburgh composer Thomas Roncevic
• The monumental “Death and the Maiden” String Quartet by Franz Schubert, one of the masterpieces of the chamber music repertoire.

The Academy String Quartet is especially known for its engaging style of performance. Rather than simply presenting music, the musicians speak directly to audiences, providing historical background and musical insights that deepen listeners’ appreciation of each work. This educational yet entertaining approach has made the ensemble a favorite throughout western Pennsylvania.

The season concludes with one of the greatest works ever written for string quartet, bringing the 2026–2027 Johnstown Concert Series to a powerful and memorable close.