A Journey Through American Rhythms with PUBLIQuartet
Posted: 10/28/24

PUBLIQuartet is an innovative string quartet on a mission to reimagine classical music through a multicultural and genre-blending lens. Applauded for their ability to blur the lines between classical, jazz, and contemporary music, the ensemble—Curtis Stewart (violin), Jannina Norpoth (violin), Nick Revel (viola), and Hamilton Berry (cello)—has garnered critical acclaim, including two GRAMMY nominations. Since founding in 2010, their mission has been clear: to challenge the traditional boundaries of chamber music while celebrating the diverse and rhythmic foundations of American music.
Curtis Stewart, PUBLIQuartet’s violinist, is a versatile New York native with a background in both classical and contemporary music, performing in venues like Carnegie Hall and collaborating with artists such as Wyclef Jean. Jannina Norpoth, also on violin, made her solo debut at 14 and has since collaborated with legends like Jay-Z and Stevie Wonder. Nick Revel, PUBLIQuartet’s violist, is a composer and producer whose works have gained recognition in competitions and festivals world-wide. Hamilton Berry, the quartet’s cellist, blends his classical expertise with collaborations across genres, working with artists like Bjork and Vampire Weekend.
Their program, “Rhythm Nation,” which you can experience live on November 22, seeks to celebrate American rhythmic traditions, connecting the past to the present through innovative and original compositions. “Rhythm Nation” features a powerful lineup of contemporary composers whose works delve into the complexities of rhythm and identity.
One standout piece from the program is “Voodoo Dolls” by Jessie Montgomery, PUBLIQuartet's founding violinist. Written in 2008, this piece blends West African drumming patterns with lyrical chants, creating a dynamic exploration of movement and melody that allows the musicians to incorporate improvisation. The result is a dynamic and expressive representation of rhythm that draws from diverse traditions while remaining distinctly modern.

Another highlight is “Blues for Buddy” by Jeff Scott, a work commissioned specifically for PUBLIQuartet. Scott, a celebrated composer and horn player, pays homage to blues music with this new piece, composed in 2024. Through this single-movement work, Scott encapsulates the emotional depth and rhythmic drive of blues, contributing to the broader theme of the program: the intersection of American music and history.
Rhiannon Giddens’ “At the Purchaser’s Option,” arranged by PUBLIQuartet, stands as a haunting meditation on the history of slavery in America. Originally inspired by a 19th-century advertisement for the sale of an enslaved woman and her child, this piece weaves whispers, sung excerpts, and string techniques to evoke the pain and resilience of those subjected to the atrocities of slavery. Giddens’ work, reimagined for string quartet, offers a powerful reflection on America's past and its lasting impact on the present.
PUBLIQuartet’s performance is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary classical music and the evolution of the string quartet. With its mix of improvisation, jazz, and classical traditions, PUBLIQuartet’s “Rhythm Nation” promises to be an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss your chance to see PUBLIQuartet live on November 22 at Shannon Hall.