From fiery renditions of 17th century dances to the passionate delivery of avant-garde contemporary works, the New York Guitar Quartet's diverse repertoire is known for breaking new ground and crossing the boundaries of traditional classical music. NYGQ specializes in the pre and post common practice: the absolute extremes of music. This unique ensemble has a passion for the modern era that is only paralleled by their innovative arrangements of early music, as they actively commission and premiere original works while subtly bringing sounds of the Renaissance into the 21st century. NYGQ's live performances are renowned for their dazzling array of evocative images and lighting, guest performers, and creative programming -- an interactive multi media event that begins a new chapter in the book of art music.

NYGQ's emotionally charged performances have received an incredible response since their inception to the concert scene. Hailed as “a breath of fresh air in the chamber music scene” (Frederic Hand) and as presenting “great melodies and meticulous percussive effects” (Guitar Review), audiences respond to both the virtuosity and the raw energy of the quartet's playing. Performances last year at Columbia University, the Sidney Silverman Young Artists Series, the School for Visual and Performing Arts, and Virginia's historic Lyric Theatre inspired spontaneous cheering and standing ovations. NYGQ has performed with the Loudoun Symphony Orchestra, the SONOS Chamber Orchestra in New York City, and most recently presented recitals on the Yale/Pro-Arte Guitar Series in New York City as pre-concert guest artists for David Russell, Raphaella Smits, and the Steven & John Novacek Duo. NYGQ has been featured in live interviews on distinguished radio programs, including Tuesday Morning Classical on WKCR Radio in New York.

The members of NYGQ -- Leon Bernardyn, J. Andrew Dickenson, J. Scott Matejicka, and Paul Martin Wu -- emerged from the Peabody Conservatory, the New School University's Mannes College of Music, Yale University, and the Royal Academy of Music. They are Ensemble in Residence at St. Joseph's College New York, and have been appointed to the faculties of Fairleigh Dickinson University, Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University, Bard Early College and Cecil Community College. NYGQ serves on the advisory board of the New York City Classical Guitar Society, and is a recipient of the Peabody Conservatory Career Development Grant.

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