Rasa String Quartet
Exploring the musical space where classical and folk traditions intersect and influence one another
Who We Are
Rasa /ˈräsə/: A Sanskrit word that refers to the indescribable power of any art form to inspire strong emotions in the reader or listener.
Rasa String Quartet explores the musical space where classical and folk traditions intersect and influence one another.
Formed in 2019, the Boston-based ensemble consists of violinists Emma Powell and Maura Shawn Scanlin, violist Kiyoshi Hayashi, and cellist Mina Kim, who are graduates of the New England Conservatory, the Shepherd School of Music, and Yale University.
Rasa String Quartet are winners of the 2022 Associazione Europea di Musica e Comunicazione International Chamber Music Competition (Italy), the 2021 Music Teachers National Association Chamber Music Competition (ATL), the 2020 Chamber Music Yellow Springs Competition (OH), and were the 2022-23 ensemble in residence at Phillips Exeter Academy.
They’ve collaborated with renowned folk musicians like Celtic harpist Maeve Gilchrist, Irish fiddler Liz Carroll, and singer-songwriter Judy Collins, and performed across the country at venues including the 2023 Osaka International Chamber Music Competition, Celebrity Series of Boston, Rockport Music, WGBH, WBUR, and the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. Their commitment to education has led to residencies at institutions like Walnut Hill School for the Arts, UMass Dartmouth, and Boston Music Project.
By exploring the connection between music and storytelling at the heart of folk traditions, Rasa String Quartet delivers fresh, engaging performances that blend classical elegance with folk whimsy, celebrate global traditions, and elevate lesser-known composers.
-
Playing music we love with friends we love for people we love is what brings us THE MOST joy in the world!
Music is the most intimate, vulnerable, and deepest way to connect with others.
Music helps us perceive meaning in our lives, can instantly transform our physical, mental, and spiritual states, and connects us to the emotions that make us inherently human.
Music is the universal language – it’s a powerful medium to build community, inspire social change, and bring opposing sides together.
Music has the power to elevate voices, stories, and lessons that need to be heard.
-
We aim to infuse the relaxed atmosphere and lively banter of a folk show in the classical concert experience in a way that is relatable, educational, and entertaining.
Clapping, hollering, and general giving of love and energy at ANY POINT in the show is much appreciated and will be reciprocated!
We are committed to programming music that reflects a rich diversity of cultures, styles, and genres. In a single performance, you might hear a rock classic flow into a Haydn string quartet, followed by a Korean folk song, and ending with a lively Celtic fiddle tune.
Ultimately, it’s all about inspiring some “Rasa” – a powerful and transformational emotional experience!
