Strings over the skyline

Sounds of Beethoven rose over the Philadelphia skyline last night. And the notes were played solely for the ears of the campus community. Yesterday evening, about 20 students and faculty members sat back and enjoyed an informal recital, titled "All Beethoven," by a highly acclaimed all-female string quartet in Hamilton College House's rooftop lounge. The Cassatt quartet played pieces by Beethoven, representing a large spread of his quartet compositions. Between songs, the members of the group discussed their own opinions of the works and answered audience questions. "We're discovering there are a lot of student musicians who are hungry for musical exposure and musical interaction," said Jennifer Leshnower, the group's second violinist. "Our residency is perfect to fill this niche." The Cassatt was named Penn's quartet-in-residence for 2000 through 2002. A gift to the Penn Music Department by Wharton graduate Yew Lin Goh made this distinction possible. "This means they are a part of the Penn community," said Music Professor Chris Hasty. The event was just one of many that the quartet will hold for the University. They gave a similar performance and discussion session in November and will be back a third time in April for a formal recital. In addition to performances, the quartet-in-residence enters the classroom to connect academia with professionalism. Hasty said that he hopes the Cassatt will raise awareness and "focus the attention on the importance of music for the University community." Over the next two days, the quartet will also hold coaching sessions for students. "We've really enjoyed working with the students at Penn," Leshnower said, adding that in her various interactions, she has been amazed by the "high energy from the students." Last week, the Cassatt played for the Board of Trustees during a meeting focused on bringing arts to the students. "They really want students to participate," Leshnower said. "And the residency enhances all that." Students attending loved the informal setting that allowed for close proximity to the musicians. "I thought it was great," College freshman Veronica Jurkiewicz said. "It was educational for me being a musician... they are such great players."