A SYMPHONY OF IMPACT: MASTERCLASSES, INSIGHTS AND THE ENDURING LEGACY OF MUSICAL BRILLIANCE
Formosa Quartet's Transformative Residency at Moores School of Music
In late October, the Formosa Quartet concluded an inspiring residency at the Moores School of Music. Comprised of the virtuosic Deborah Pae (cello), Jasmine Lin (violin), Matthew Cohen (viola), and Wayne Lee (violin), the Quartet-in-Residence achieved remarkable milestones during their tenure. From engaging workshops to captivating performances at the Blaffer Art Museum, their time at the Moores School of Music resonated profoundly with both students and the institution.
With a musical journey spanning over two decades, the Formosa Quartet has consistently delivered enchanting music to audiences worldwide. Their musical prowess has graced renowned venues across the United States, Asia, and Europe, earning critical acclaim at prestigious locations such as the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian, the Da Camera Society of Los Angeles, the Walter Reade Theater at Lincoln Center, and the National Concert Hall in Taipei, to name just a few.
Deborah Pae instructing class
Deborah Pae instructing class
During their time on campus, they taught multiple masterclasses. Isabella Bengochea shared her experience of a masterclass with Jasmine Lin and Wayne Lee on Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 4, highlighting their friendliness and encouragement. “The focus on details and characteristics in the music, as well as the emphasis on cultivating a meaningful performance, significantly contributed to my growth as a musician. I was in my last year of undergraduate studies, and I was nervous playing for them. However, they were extremely friendly and encouraging throughout the masterclass. I vividly remember Wayne’s approach in helping me to play in a relaxed and carefree manner rather than allowing nerves to get in the way. Jasmine’s approach was helpful on the cadenza as she taught me to focus on outlining certain notes or phrases that bring out the underlying harmony,” said Bengochea.
In February, Bengochea’s chamber group had coaching with Deborah Pae on Piazzolla’s Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas arranged for Piano Trio. “We had recently learned the Verano and Otoño Porteño before the chamber coaching sessions, so Deborah’s advice was extremely helpful as we did not have any concrete musical ideas. This coaching was informative and insightful as it not only helped us to create new colors in our sounds, but it brought us closer as an ensemble. I learned that to be a meaningful musician, you must be committed in not only creating ‘good sound’ but bringing out certain nuances and being committed to a higher level or degree of expressivity in music-making. I believe this essential factor is one of many skills that makes the Formosa Quartet stand out and why their performances manage to captivate audiences,” she explained.
During Matthew Cohen's viola masterclass, José Piña, though not primarily a violinist, eagerly embraced the opportunity. The encounter unfolded as a profound transformation, with Cohen shedding light on a novel perspective of musical interpretation. “Delving into the realms of Bach's Cello Suite 2, Prelude (viola transcription), my initial focus rested solely on the grand architecture of the composition, unwittingly overlooking the delicate subtleties that enrich its essence. Guided by Matt's expertise, my comprehension reached new depths, revealing an appreciation for the intricate details that contribute to the piece's resplendent brilliance. Matt's insights, far from merely refining my musicality in that moment, laid a robust foundation poised to significantly shape my musical journey in the days ahead.”
Matthew Cohen instructing class
Matthew Cohen instructing class
The Formosa Quartet's culminating recital at the Blaffer Art Museum ignited in Piña a newfound appreciation for chamber music. "Previously, my approach to pieces was superficial. I adhered strictly to the notes on the page, never truly transcending to convey the emotions—be it joyous or mournful—imbued in the composition. Thanks to the guidance of Jasmine, Matthew, and my esteemed viola professor, Mr. Brooks, I am gradually navigating the path to unlocking the expressive depth within each musical piece,” said Piña.
In retrospect, the Formosa Quartet's residency at the Moores School of Music stands as a transformative chapter for both the institution and the students fortunate enough to partake in their musical journey. Isabella Bengochea's masterclass encounter with Jasmine Lin and Wayne Lee, and chamber coaching sessions with Deborah Pae, as well as José Piña's immersion in Matthew Cohen's viola masterclass, exemplify the Quartet's commitment to nurturing not just technical proficiency but a profound connection to the soul of music.
The Formosa Quartet in the Moores Opera House
The Formosa Quartet in the Moores Opera House
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