Artists

Biography:

Quartet ES brings a diverse and engaging presence to the world of chamber music. Known for cutting-edge programming, visionary projects, and dynamic educational initiatives, violinists Anton Miller and Ertan Torgul, violist Rita Porfiris, and cellist Jennifer Kloetzel bring their distinct artistic voices and a wealth of individual experience to form a singular ensemble defined by its creativity, versatility, and commitment to excellence.

Since its founding in 2017, Quartet ES has performed across the US and abroad, holding residencies at acclaimed institutions including the Harpa International Music Academy, the New Music for Strings Festival in Reykjavík, and Point CounterPoint in Vermont. In 2021, during a time of global challenges, the group undertook an ambitious centerpiece project for the Uncertainty of Fate Festival – commissioning 18 new works by both emerging and established composers and recording them in just four days.

Recent seasons have included a debut with Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra and featured appearances on chamber series across California, Oregon, and Nebraska. Dedicated advocates for contemporary music, Quartet ES has premiered and recorded quartets by Errollyn Wallen, Elena Ruehr, Robert Carl, Alexandra Gardner, Jonah Sirota, Ken Steen, Juhi Bansal, Nathan Scalise, Ethan Wickman, and Sarah Gibson.

Their performances have garnered critical acclaim, with international press praising their rendition of Bartók as ‘brilliantly played from start to finish… the quartet members are excellent instrumentalists and play perfectly together’. Beyond the concert stage, the quartet remains deeply committed to education and outreach, leading workshops and masterclasses that foster growth and creativity in young musicians. Equally at home with traditional and contemporary repertoire, Quartet ES continues to redefine chamber music for the 21st century – blending passion, precision, and bold artistic vision.