Karski Quartet
Known for their energetic and emotionally rich interpretations, the Karski Quartet create a powerful bond with audiences, captivating both classical music connoisseurs and a new generation of listeners. Their warm sound, expressive intensity and relentless pursuit of excellence have earned them international recognition.
Formed in 2018 in Brussels, the quartet’s members met while studying at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels. A key figure in their artistic journey was Philippe Graffin, whose inspiring musical vision and openness to dialogue led to their collaboration in Traces Festival. The quartet quickly gained recognition, winning the Grand Prix at the Triomphe de l’Art competition in 2018. In 2022, they were among ten ensembles selected for the Banff International String Quartet Competition, where they were awarded the Christine and David Anderson Career Development Prize.
Their debut album, featuring Boccherini’s string quintets recorded with Raphaël Feye for Evil Penguin and released in 2023, was met with international acclaim and nominated for the longlist of Preis Der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik. A second disc of Boccherini’s quintets is set for release in March 2026. In between the two Boccherinis, a disc of chamber music works by Grażyna Bacewicz, recorded with pianist Jâms Coleman, was released in 2025 and garnered international acclaim with enthusiastic reviews from the BBC Music Magazine and American Record Guide among others.
The quartet takes its name from Jan Karski, the legendary Polish WW2 resistance fighter. His unwavering courage continues to inspire the musicians, not only in their artistic pursuits but in their daily lives. In a world full of challenges, Karski Quartet stands for connection, authenticity, and fearless musical storytelling.
