Read full Irish Times review of the Dublin Castle concert here.

“a well-balanced quartet, led with attitude and flair” The Strad

There's a real treat in store for lovers of chamber music as this season's classical tour showcases the Badke Quartet, formed in 2002 but already recognised as one of the finest string quartets of its generation. Noted for its rhythmic energy and intensity, the ensemble won both first prize and audience prize in the 2007 Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition.

In addition to performing in some of the UK's most prestigious chamber music venues such as the Wigmore Hall and the Royal Festival Hall, the quartet has appeared at festivals throughout Europe, including Montreux, Aldeburgh, Lichfield, West Cork and Mecklenburg.

The group has also broadcasted live on BBC Radio, and most recently performed on Classic FM to promote the Mostly Mozart Festival at London's Barbican Centre. With quartet co-founders Heather Badke, Emma Parker and Jonathan Byers will be their new viola player, Eniko Magyar, winner of the 2007 Theodore Holland prize.

As well as leading the quartet, Heather performs regularly with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Northern Sinfonia and the BBC Philharmonic. Emma plays with the Irish Baroque Orchestra and Opera Theatre Company as well as playing alongside artists such as Paul McCartney, Elton John and Shirley Bassey; while Jonathan Byers has performed with the Academy of Ancient Music, The English Concert, Irish Baroque Orchestra, RTÉ Symphony Orchestra and Ulster Orchestra.

On tour