The Australian String Quartet, Australia’s pre-eminent organisation dedicated to string quartet music, has announced a new partnership with Adelaide University and unveiled its refurbished studio on campus. The University will become the exclusive tertiary partner of the Australian String Quartet effective from 1 January 2026 for a three-year term.
As Quartet-in-Residence, the Australian String Quartet will be headquartered at Adelaide University, a new institution merging the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia. The partnership continues the Quartet’s rich history of collaboration on campus with the Elder Conservatorium of Music and School of Performing Arts since its inception, alongside its award-winning national and international artistic program delivery. The partnership with Adelaide University will see an exciting range of initiatives across student engagement, creative collaborations, on-campus performances, and research opportunities between the two organisations.
Angelina Zucco, CEO of the Australian String Quartet said: “We’re excited to kick off a new chapter of innovation and creativity with Adelaide University as our exclusive tertiary partner. In our 40th anniversary year, this partnership strengthens our purpose—to create chemistry and amplify intimacy through string quartet music that resonates with audiences across Australia and around the world.”
Professor Jessica Gallagher, Deputy Vice Chancellor, International and External Engagement, Adelaide University said: “The Australian String Quartet has a long and proud history with the University of Adelaide and we are excited to now have the opportunity to take that further as Adelaide University opens its doors on 1 January, 2026. We are delighted to be home to these performers, and to be among their biggest supporters and fans.”
The Quartet’s refurbished studio on campus features a heritage sensitive design by Matthews Architects. The custom space will be used by the Quartet, as well as a valuable resource for staff and students at the University.
Robert Rattray, Associate and Architect at Matthews Architects said: “The architectural intent behind the space consisted of two primary considerations – function and aesthetics. The aesthetic choices reinvigorate and express the beauty of the original space, while creating a functional multipurpose area with cascading lighting and spotlights to create a focal point for performances.”
Founded in Adelaide in 1985, the Australian String Quartet celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, and is made up of musicians and co-artistic directors Dale Barltrop, Francesca Hiew, Chris Cartlidge and Michael Dahlenburg. The ensemble, which last week won the Ruby Award for Outstanding Collaboration for nyilamum song cycles with Dr Lou Bennett AM and Paul Stanhope in association with Binung Boorigan, celebrates music from the past to the present, from near and afar, and strives to reflect contemporary Australia through its performances, collaborations, advocacy, learning programs, and development of new work.
