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The award is a wonderful achievement for the ensemble and a moment of pride for Maiastra, as all four members of the quartet are Maiastra alumni. Their success is a reflection not only of exceptional musicianship, but also of the dedication and collaborative spirit that chamber music demands at the highest level.

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Over the years, Maiastra has been fortunate to connect with many students from Guildhall School of Music & Drama, (GSM&D), supporting emerging musicians as they develop their chamber music careers. Seeing GSM&D students and graduates flourish in competition and performance settings is always deeply encouraging, and the Šuma Quartet’s success is a particularly joyful example of that continuing connection.

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This is also reflected in the artists and teachers who help shape Maiastra’s work. One of our very own Course Directors, Akiko Ono, teaches at the Guildhall, and Maiastra Coach David Takeno is also a distinguished member of the GSM&D faculty. Their presence within both communities speaks to as hared commitment to nurturing the next generation of outstanding chamber musicians.

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The Šuma Quartet performed their prize concert at St James’ Church Piccadilly, after which they participated in a masterclass with the Leonkoro Quartet at J & A Beare. The group look forward to having a masterclass with the Danish String Quartet and making their Bechstein Hall Debut on 11 June at 7pm.

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We send our warmest congratulations to the Šuma Quartet on this excellent achievement and look forward to following their next steps. It is always inspiring to see Maiastra alumni making their mark, and we are thrilled to celebrate this latest success with them.

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Šuma Quartet members and their Maiastra course participation:

Yixuan Kassia Ren – December 2025

Pavla Bedrichova – April 2024

Connor Quigley – April 2025

Gabriel Webb – July 2025, December 2025, April 2026