About

"Just hearing them play is a joy... this was artistry of the very highest calibre."

“Razor-sharp ensemble and expressive playing."

"The ASQ set the benchmark in so many ways."

“This was a performance with a great sense of mastery on all fronts – technically flawless, driven by great passion and virtuosity…” ★★★★★

“…the players were so beautifully together that the effect was magical… the ASQ looks set to maintain its premier place in Australia’s chamber music scene.”

"Like having a gymnast perform in your lounge room."

"...these sensitive, highly talented players impressed throughout with their overwhelming sense of shared musical vision and desire to create a ravishing musical unity. Put simply, the ASQ remains a sure-fire winner."

The Australian String Quartet (ASQ) is Australia’s pre-eminent organisation dedicated to string quartet music and Quartet-in-Residence at the University of Adelaide’s Elder Conservatorium of Music.

Defined by excellence in performance and the joy of musical expression, our DNA comprises three inseparable parts. At the centre is our Quartet—four full-time musicians, each a creative force in crafting the world’s most dynamic and intimate music. Surrounding the Quartet is an innovative production company that presents, tours, records, and promotes exceptional artistry. Sustaining this, is a vital community of partners including our national Board, visionary Patron—Maria Myers AC, Major Partner—The University of Adelaide, Instrument Partner—UKARIA and Government Supporters.

Together, we celebrate music from the past to the present, from near and afar, and strive to reflect contemporary Australia through our performances, collaborations, advocacy, learning programs, and development of new work. Our landmark ASQ Australian Music Fund, supports our ground-breaking Australian Anthology project that proudly champions the work of Australian artists.

In our 40^th year, we are energised by our purpose to create chemistry and amplify intimacy through experiences that engage people across regional and metropolitan Australia and around the world.

Dale Barltrop plays a 1784 Guadagnini Violin, Turin
Francesca Hiew plays a 1748-49 Guadagnini Violin, Piacenza
Chris Cartlidge plays a 1783 Guadagnini Viola, Turin
Michael Dahlenburg plays a c.1743 Guadagnini Violoncello, Piacenza ‘Ngeringa’