A Love Supreme - The Legacy of John Coltrane
 

Its name derived from creation mythology found in Native American folklore, the Turtle Island Quartet (TIQ), since its inception in 1985, has been a singular force in the creation of bold, new trends in chamber music for strings. Winner of the 2006, and most recently the 2008 Grammy Award for Best Classical Crossover Album for A Love Supreme - The Legacy of John Coltrane, TIQ  fuses the classical quartet esthetic with contemporary American musical styles, and by devising a performance practice that honors both, the state of the art has inevitably been redefined.  

The Quartet’s birth was the result of violinist David Balakrishnan’s explorations and compositional vision while writing his master’s thesis at Antioch University West.  The journey has taken TIQ through forays into several genres, most prominently jazz, as well as music of Latin America and India. It has included 14 recordings on four labels, currently Telarc; soundtracks for major motion pictures, TV and radio credits such as the Today Show, NPR’s All Things Considered, Prairie Home Companion, and Morning Edition; feature articles in People and Newsweek magazines, and collaborations with jazz artists Paquito D’Rivera, Billy Taylor, Cyrus Chestnut, Kenny Barron, and The Manhattan Transfer; the classical Ying Quartet, and the contemporary Parsons Dance Company.

One result of this dedication can be seen in TIQ’s phenomenal international appeal, particularly in Europe where chamber music remains a vital facet of life.  What was once termed “alternative” chamber music now firmly inhabits the mainstream.  TIQ members refine their skills through unique modifications of works by the old masters, through the development of repertory by some of today’s cutting-edge composers, through performances and recordings with major symphonic ensembles, and through a determined educational commitment. TIQ is a paradigmatic string quartet for the 21^st century. 

“.A unified voice that truly breaks new ground – authentic and passionate – a reflection of some of the most creative music-making today.”    - Yo Yo Ma

“…zest, imagination and brilliant technique…”   The San Francisco Examiner