The Permian Basin String Quartet will perform a free show on ACU’s campus for both students and community members this Saturday.
The cultural experience of the performance is paired with an opportunity to see one of ACU’s faculty members on stage.
John Madura, adjunct music professor and first violin for the quartet, is in his fifth season as a member of the group. Madura also serves as Concertmaster of the Midland-Odessa Symphony and Chorale of which the quartet is a part of.
Beginning in 1977 with the Thouvenel Quartet, the MOSC has always kept a resident string quartet, though under many different names.
Madura is joined by Katy Gillan on second violin, Amy Huzjak on cello and Madura’s wife, Melissa, playing viola.
John and Melissa met while playing in the graduate string quartet at Texas Tech. They married and had their first daughter just before joining the PBSQ. Madura said that performing along side his wife has been a blessing.
“When we rehearse we try to keep it purely business,” said Madura, who later joked that sometimes arguments can carry into practice. “But generally the reason we got married is because we love making music together.”
Madura also teaches viola, violin an chamber music at ACU. After joining the PBSQ, Madura was approached by Dr. Steven Ward, Director of Bands and Orchestra, and offered the spot at ACU.
“The difference between performing and teaching is that when you teach you can see this growth step by step,” said Madura. “At ACU in particular, the students are very rewarding and they come prepared and are eager to learn.”
The hour and a half long show will consist of two parts separated by an intermission.
“It is very beautiful and melodic but also more jagged that the romantic or classical pieces,” said Madura. “It is a good piece for people who are scared of 20th century music.”
Madura and the rest of the Permian Basin String Quartet will perform in the Recital Hall of the Williams Performing Arts Center at 4 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free. The quartet will also be performing at the Civic Center as part of the Abilene Philharmonic on Saturday at 8 p.m.
“It is a great experience to see people who are very passionate about what they do perform beautifully,” said Madura, “and it would also make a great date night.”
