Cypress String Quartet

San Francisco-based Classical Chamber Ensemble

The Cypress String Quartet was an American string quartet that was active from 1996 until their farewell concert in 2016. The ensemble was known for its elegant performances and dedication to both classical and contemporary repertoire. The quartet consisted of Cecily Ward (violin), Tom Stone (violin), Ethan Filner (viola), and Jennifer Kloetzel (cello). They were based in San Francisco and gained a reputation for their insightful interpretations of Beethoven's quartets, which they recorded in full. In addition to their Beethoven cycle, they commissioned and premiered new works by various contemporary composers, contributing to the expansion of the string quartet repertoire. The Cypress String Quartet often engaged in educational outreach, bringing classical music to schools and communities. Their discography includes a range of albums that showcase their versatility and commitment to both the core string quartet literature as well as modern compositions.