Forst Quartet, an ensemble of Bienen School of Music undergraduate students, has advanced to the finals of the 2023 St. Paul String Quartet Competition. 

A total of four string quartets were invited to the senior division finals of the competition, which will be held Saturday, April 29, in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Forst Quartet members are Brian Zhan and Joel Kang, violin students of Gerardo Ribeiro; Sanford Whatley, viola student of Helen Callus; and Sarah Chong, cello student of Hans Jensen. The ensemble was coached by Bienen lecturer Desirée Ruhstrat, members of Bienen School quartet-in-residence the Dover Quartet, and Mathias Tacke.

The Saint Paul String Quartet competition was founded in 2006 by Artaria String Quartet violinist Ray Shows, who serves as artistic administrator of the annual event. Its mission is to celebrate excellence in string quartet playing and foster an increased appreciation for the chamber music art form. The competition is open to high school and college age string quartets from around the country and is adjudicated by a professional string quartet.

Photo, above (L to R): Sanford Whatley, Sarah Chong, Joel Kang, and Brian Zhan