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The Calder Quartet, Oberlin's new quartet-in-residence through 2016, launched their residency with a compelling concert on September 30th in Finney Chapel. The performance introduced the ensemble and kicked off the Artist Recital Series.

Comprised of violinists Benjamin Jacobson and Andrew Bulbrook, violist Jonathan Moerschel, and cellist Eric Byers, the Calders are known for their close relationships with contemporary composers like Thomas Adès, Terry Riley, and Christopher Rouse. They opened with Adès's Arcadiana, a work filled with allusions to various artistic references and musical styles. The quartet masterfully executed Adès's extended string techniques and dynamic range.

Following intermission, they performed Franz Schubert’s “Death and the Maiden” Quartet, showcasing their blend, unanimity of sound, and control. They concluded with Leoš Janáček’s "Intimate Letters" Quartet, based on the composer's unrequited love affair, displaying a wide emotional range from lyricism to crazed outbursts.

The quartet will next perform on November 18th at Stull Recital Hall in Bibbins Hall at the Oberlin Conservatory, joining forces with faculty members Richard Hawkins and Michael Strauss for a free concert of Brahms chamber music.