Get ready to celebrate the future—and the legends—of chamber music! Chamber Music America (CMA) has just unveiled its 2026 award winners, and the lineup is nothing short of inspiring. Among the honorees are the Poiesis Quartet, the Takács Quartet, and Imani Winds, each recognized for their unique contributions to the genre. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: these awards aren’t just about talent—they’re about impact, innovation, and the legacy of mentorship that keeps chamber music thriving.
The Takács Quartet will receive the prestigious Richard J. Bogomolny National Service Award, a testament to their five decades of artistic excellence and national influence. Since 1986, they’ve called the University of Colorado, Boulder, home as artists in residence, shaping the next generation of musicians. Their 50th anniversary in 2025 marks not just a milestone but a legacy of dedication to the craft. But is 50 years enough to truly measure their impact? What does it take for an ensemble to become a national treasure?
Meanwhile, the Poiesis Quartet, fresh off their victory at the Banff International String Quartet Competition, will be honored with the Cleveland Quartet Award. This award isn’t just a pat on the back—it’s a launchpad. As part of the prize, they’ll be presented by a powerhouse consortium of eight presenters, including Carnegie Hall and the Smithsonian’s Freer and Sackler Galleries. And this is the part most people miss: the Cleveland Quartet Award is named after one of history’s most revered ensembles, whose mentorship shaped groups like the Ariel, Pacifica, and Verona Quartets—all of whom, in turn, mentored Poiesis. It’s a beautiful cycle of artistic inheritance, but does it guarantee Poiesis will reach the same heights? Only time will tell.
Finally, Imani Winds will receive the Michael Jaffee Visionary Award for their boundary-pushing artistry and commitment to innovation in chamber music. Their work isn’t just about playing notes—it’s about redefining what chamber music can be. But here’s the controversial question: In a genre steeped in tradition, how far is too far when it comes to experimentation? Does innovation risk alienating audiences, or is it the key to keeping the art form alive?
All three ensembles will receive their awards at CMA’s National Conference in Chicago from August 20-23, 2026. Kevin Kwan Loucks, CEO of CMA, reflected on the occasion, saying, ’It’s the rich histories and decades of mentorship from ensembles like the Takács Quartet and Imani Winds that have allowed newer groups like Poiesis to flourish.’ He added, ’It’s inspiring to see this lineage alive in Poiesis, whose musicianship and artistry are already unmistakable.’
So, what do you think? Are these awards a fitting tribute to the past, present, and future of chamber music? Or is there more to be done to ensure the genre’s survival? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!