Welcome to the world of the Dryden Quartet—a premier ensemble renowned for its exceptional artistry and dynamic performances. Founded in Washington, DC in 2002 by the talented siblings Nicolas and Yumi Kendall, their cousin Daniel Foster, and the esteemed violinist Nurit Bar-Josef, the Dryden Quartet has quickly distinguished itself in the classical music landscape.

A Legacy of Excellence

The formation of the Dryden Quartet is rooted in both familial bonds and a shared commitment to musical excellence. The quartet’s name pays tribute to John Kendall, the grandfather of the Kendalls and Mr. Foster. A revered violin pedagogue, Kendall is celebrated for his pioneering work in the Suzuki method in the United States. The quartet’s choice to honor Kendall reflects not only their respect for his significant influence on the music world but also their own rich musical heritage.

Distinguished Members

Each member of the Dryden Quartet brings a wealth of experience and accomplishment to the ensemble:

  • Nurit Bar-Josef: As the Concertmaster of the National Symphony Orchestra since 2001, Bar-Josef is a distinguished violinist whose virtuosity and leadership have garnered widespread acclaim. Her extensive experience includes performances at prestigious chamber music festivals such as Taos, Caramoor, Garth Newel, Strings in the Mountains, and Portland.
  • Daniel Foster: Serving as the Principal Violist of the National Symphony Orchestra since 1995, Foster shares the stage with Bar-Josef in the orchestra. His exceptional viola playing and rich chamber music background add depth and versatility to the quartet.
  • Yumi Kendall: The Acting Associate Principal Cellist of the Philadelphia Orchestra, Kendall brings her impressive skills and artistic sensitivity to the ensemble. Her career is marked by significant contributions to the world of orchestral and chamber music.
  • Nicolas Kendall: An accomplished soloist and a member of the innovative trio Time For Three, Nicolas Kendall explores a broad spectrum of musical styles. His solo career and diverse interests in music further enrich the Dryden Quartet’s performances.

Musical Vision and Achievements

The Dryden Quartet is celebrated for its ability to fuse the members’ distinct musical experiences into a cohesive and vibrant ensemble. Their performances have been described as “spectacular” and “thrilling,” earning them critical praise and a dedicated following. Each member’s rich background in chamber music contributes to the quartet’s unique sound and interpretative depth.

Their inaugural performance at the Netherlands Embassy was a poignant tribute to John Kendall. This debut set the tone for the quartet’s future, blending a deep respect for their musical heritage with a commitment to innovative and engaging performances.

Performance Highlights

The quartet’s members have performed at some of the most prestigious chamber music festivals in the world. Bar-Josef’s participation in events like the Taos and Caramoor festivals, and the Kendalls and Foster’s performances at the Marlboro Music Festival, underscore their extensive experience and dedication to the art of chamber music.

The Dryden Quartet’s concerts are not just performances but celebrations of musical tradition and exploration. Their repertoire spans classical masterpieces to contemporary works, always delivered with a commitment to excellence and a passion for the art form.

Looking Ahead

As the Dryden Quartet continues to evolve, their commitment to excellence remains steadfast. Their performances promise to offer audiences a blend of technical brilliance, emotional depth, and innovative interpretation. The quartet’s rich history, coupled with their ongoing dedication to their craft, ensures that they will continue to be a significant force in the world of chamber music.

For more information about upcoming performances, recordings, and news, please visit our website or contact us at [email protected]. Join us in celebrating the Dryden Quartet’s remarkable contributions to classical music and experience their extraordinary artistry firsthand.

Thank you for your interest in the Dryden Quartet. We look forward to sharing our music with you.