The world’s only string quartet in continuous existence for more than a hundred years will perform a repertoire of classical chamber music:
- After being founded in Brussels by Alphonse Onnou in 1912, the Pro Arte became Court Quartet to Queen Elizabeth of Belgium. They first visited America in 1926, playing a concert in New York City to open the first of 30 more tours in the United States. Their first visit to Wisconsin took place in 1938. Two years later, upon returning to Madison, they became stranded by the outbreak of World War II and accepted a residency at the University of Wisconsin – the first such residency ever awarded by a major American university.
Many famous instrumentalists have played with the Pro Arte Quartet and taught UW musicians over the years. Two of the current quartet members are also featured performers in the Midsummer’s Music ensemble, 1st violinist David Perry and violist Sally Chisholm. They are joined by 2nd violinist Suzanna Beia and violoncellist Parry Karp. All hold positions at UW-Madison. The group performs all over the world.
Woodwalk Gallery, located south of Egg Harbor in a restored classic Door County barn, is becoming a noted concert venue in addition to a fine art gallery and school, featuring ongoing pop and classical music events in a well-staged concert hall. Midsummer’s Music Festival events have been a highlight there for several years, and the first engagement of the Pro Arte Quartet will do likewise, including an opportunity to meet the performing artists at reception to follow.
Reservations are highly recommended to insure a seat as the concert SOLD OUT last fall. Priced at $30 for adults and $10 for students, you can secure a spot online at MidsummersMusic.com or by calling 920.854.7088.
Woodwalk Gallery is located 7 miles north of Sturgeon Bay or 5 miles south of the Village of Egg Harbor, ½ mile west of Highway 42 at 6746 County Road G. The gallery is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and later on concert nights through October. Find out more at WoodwalkGallery.com.