'Quink' ensemble to perform at Piedmont

(1-20-06) How do you spell vocal excellence? In the Netherlands, it is spelled "Quink," the name of a five-person vocal ensemble that has delighted audiences worldwide. Derived from the Dutch words "kwetteren" (to chirp), "kwinkslag" (to joke), Quink will bring their brand of not-so-serious a capella singing to Piedmont College.

The group will perform at 8 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 4, in the college's Center for Worship and Music in Demorest. Tickets are $10 at the door and $5 for seniors and students. Piedmont students, faculty and staff are admitted free

These five professional singers have developed a unique sound that allows them to illustrate with style and expressiveness the great variety of a cappella music. Quink's repertoire varies widely and consists of music of the Renaissance and Baroque periods, as well as works by Romantic composers. Moreover, the ensemble often performs folk songs and close harmony arrangements, and it concludes its performances with lighter audience-pleasing pieces.

Quink has introduced many new works both of established and modern masters. A number of contemporary Dutch, German and American compositions have been dedicated especially to Quink. In 1983 Quink received its first international recognition when the group was named finalist in a major music competition in Europe. Since then they have been invited to perform in concerts at home and abroad.

The ensemble is often heard on radio and is also invited to appear on national and international TV. Quink is a welcome guest at music festivals all over the world. Quink's first United States tour in 1985 was so successful that it often tours the US twice a year. Future seasons include tours throughout Europe and the Far East. In the spring of 1998 Quink appeared in festivals in Tel Aviv and Singapore.

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