Biography
The Philharmonic String Quartet represents the young generation of cosmopolitan, versatile and artistically passionate musicians of the Berliner Philharmoniker.. Founded in 2018, the formation's members continue the tradition of Philharmoniker ensembles of presenting chamber music at the highest standard. Their goal is to bring the orchestra's sound and playing culture even to small chamber music ensembles with their dedication and supreme virtuosity.
The violins are played by Helena Madoka Berg and Dorian Xhoxhi, who comes from Tirana and is also a member of the Berlin Baroque Soloists. The viola is played by Naoko Shimizu from Japan. The only non-Philharmoniker is Christoph Heesch, who is considered one of the most promising up-and-coming cellists and enjoys success with his solo and chamber music skills.
The young ensemble made its public debut in 2019 at a lunch concert in the Philharmonie Berlin. The quartet released its first CD with works by Josef Suk and Antonín Dvořák in March 2022. It also appears regularly at the Easter Festival in Baden-Baden. The string quartet’s repertoire, which ranges from Classical to New Music, impresses in particular with its versatility. Accordingly, the ensemble has chosen famous words by Mozart as its motto: “... because we love to converse with all kinds of masters – both ancient and modern.”
Musicians
Helena Madoka Berg
Dorian Xhoxhi
Naoko Shimizu
Christoph Heesch