When Caroline Shaw returns to Shannon Hall on April 16, she does so alongside one of today’s most dynamic chamber ensembles, the Grammy Award-winning Attacca Quartet. Together, they offer a glimpse of where classical music is headed next.
Attacca Quartet has built its reputation on versatility. The Quartet’s name stems from the musical term attacca, which means to begin the next movement immediately without pause. This signifies its artistic commitment to continuous, high-energy motion, blending traditional repertoire with contemporary, genre-bending collaborations. Since forming in 2003, the ensemble has moved easily between beloved quartet works and bold contemporary pieces. Its performances feel unified and conversational, with an attentiveness that makes even the smallest musical moments feel intentional.
Caroline Shaw, the youngest recipient of the Pulitzer Prize in Music, has shaped a career defined by curiosity and collaboration. As a composer, violinist, and vocalist, she moves comfortably between roles and genres, always guided by a clear and expressive voice. Her ongoing partnership with Attacca Quartet reflects that spirit, bringing her into close artistic dialogue with an ensemble equally committed to exploration and shared creation.
The April 16 program features songs from Shaw and Attacca’s collaborative albums, “Orange” and “Evergreen,” both of which won the Grammy Award for Best Chamber Music/Small Ensemble Performance in 2020 and 2023, respectively.
One of the best introductions to this partnership is the song “Valencia,” from “Orange.” The piece is rhythmic, vibrant, and full of motion.
For a different side of their collaboration, listen to “And So” from “Evergreen,” a piece that will be featured live at Shannon Hall. Here, the strings are paired with Shaw’s voice; the song is praised by Pitchfork as a “vocal standout” and “personal and intimate.”
Madison audiences may remember Shaw’s 2022 appearance at Shannon Hall with Sō Percussion. This return pairs her with four musicians who have become some of her closest creative collaborators. On April 16, experience this collaboration live at Shannon Hall and hear firsthand how Shaw and Attacca continue to shape today’s chamber music landscape. Tickets available here.