Top-flight quartet leader quits

June 1, 2016, Bloomington, IN -The Pacifica Quartet has announced the departure of founding member and first violinist, Simin Ganatra. Ms. Ganatra, who has been the first violinist of the ensemble since their founding in 1994, will be leaving at the end of the 2015-16 season to assume an expanded role at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music and pursue other musical opportunities. The Pacifica Quartet will announce Ms. Ganatra’s replacement at a later date.

Violinist Sibbi Bernhardsson remarked, “For more than 20 years, we have had the great privilege and honor of collaborating with Simin. She has been an inspiration to us not only as an artist, but as a friend and colleague as well. Her unwavering commitment to the Pacifica Quartet and her boundless energy have helped to shape and mold who we are today. We are so very proud of Simin and wish her nothing but the best on her new adventure. As we say farewell to Simin, we look forward with much excitement to the next leg on our musical journey.”

Simin Ganatra commented, “When I look back over the past two decades of my life, I am awed by all of the accomplishments of the Pacifica Quartet. The performances at home and in places far distant, the recordings of music both familiar and groundbreaking, the masterclasses that inspire the next generation of players – it is truly breathtaking. The decision to leave was not an easy one, but after 22 years with the ensemble I feel ready to explore other musical opportunities. I will excitedly watch as my colleagues continue to grow artistically and further develop this remarkable ensemble into the quartet of the future.”