A Rich Legacy
During its 26-year career, the Cleveland Quartet was one of the world’s great string quartets. The original members were Donald Weilerstein and Peter Salaff, violins; Martha Strongin Katz, viola; and Paul Katz, cello. Atar Arad took over as violist between 1980–1987, followed by James Dunham, 1987–1995; William Preucil played first violin 1988–1995. Part of the quartet’s legacy is the Cleveland Quartet Award, endowed during its farewell tour in 1995. The quartet contributed its fees, and presenters of the final eight concerts made donations to fund a unique biennial award. An emerging quartet is chosen by an independent jury to play concerts in many of the cities that hosted the Cleveland Quartet’s farewell tour, with fees paid by the award fund. Since 1996, winners have been the Brentano, Borromeo, Miami, Pacifica, Miro and, most recently, the Jupiter quartets.


Three Tips from Paul Katz
1. When things are falling apart during a chamber-music performance, be strong! The tendency is to look for someone to follow, but remember that someone is also trying to follow you.

2. Perform often. Finding your own performing opportunities is part of being a musician these days. Something happens when you play a lot of concerts. You gain in confidence, little inhibitions fall away, and you find creative power in the moment.

3. To prepare a recital, get incredibly organized. Have a practice schedule that makes you come back to everything. Stay involved with the whole program, combining detailed practice with play-throughs that allow for spontaneity and keep you emotionally connected to the music.