Since 1988, the International Holland Music Sessions has been a beacon for young classical musicians, providing them with the stage, mentorship, and inspiration to launch extraordinary careers. From its rich history to its thriving community of alumni, IHMS continues to shape the future of classical music—one note at a time.
History and Identity
Matangi Quartet was born in 1999 from a shared spark at the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague and the Conservatory of Rotterdam. What began as four young musicians playing together has grown into one of the most dynamic and influential string quartets in the Netherlands and beyond. Over more than two decades they’ve forged a fearless artistic identity rooted in rich tradition and driven by wild curiosity.
Creative Vision and Exploration
Matangi doesn’t just perform repertoire. They reinvent it. From classical pillars like Haydn and Beethoven to bold collaborations across jazz, dance and contemporary art, their work reflects a belief that chamber music should constantly evolve. They’ve shared stages with world-class artists, from jazz icons to theatrical innovators, proving there is no “one way” to define string quartet music.
International Performance and Recognition
On leading stages at festivals like Aix-en-Provence and Schleswig-Holstein, and through performances at the World Expo and major European venues, Matangi has become known for artistry that captivates and challenges audiences. Their discography includes critically acclaimed recordings that have redefined listener expectations. They’ve won prestigious awards and continue to receive praise for both their technical mastery and imaginative spirit.
Matangi’s journey was shaped by deep mentorship, including full-time study at the Netherlands String Quartet Academy with internationally respected coaches. Today they bring that same passion for artistic growth to every collaboration. Their experience ranges from chamber music icons to adventurous genre-crossing projects, showing young musicians how to balance excellence with fearless exploration.
For anyone ready to stretch beyond notes on a page, Matangi embodies what it means to reinvent classical music for tomorrow. They don’t just perform; they invent contexts, redefine roles and invite audiences into fresh, meaningful experiences. Working with Matangi means joining a lineage of musicians who aren’t afraid to ask “what’s next” while honoring deep musical roots.