Echoes of Latitude: Matrice Quartet’s Musical Experience Throughout the Merita Platform

Stories | May 21, 2025

Welcome to the world of the Matrice Quartet – the vibrant Spanish quartet whose journey in chamber music has found a powerful new turn, thanks to their participation in the Merita Platform. Blending tradition with creativity, the quartet is committed not only to performing classical masterpieces but also to devising unique, thematic programs that promote lesser-known repertoire.

A Quartet Born of Common Passion

The story of Matrice Quartet began during the members’ student years, where a shared passion for chamber music laid the foundation for future collaboration. It wasn’t, however, until 2016 that cellist Ana Laura Iglesias and another musician officially began. The ensemble’s final form was completed in 2022 with the addition of an excellent violinist who perfectly complemented their musical aesthetic. Today, the quartet features Ana Laura Iglesias (cello), Elina Sitnikava (violin), Alicia Navidad (violin), and Berta Herrero (viola), all dedicated to making chamber music accessible and deeply engaging.

A Mission Beyond the Classics

What sets the Matrice Quartet apart is their commitment to expanding the classical music repertoire for the general public. Their concerts often feature lesser-known composers and meticulously selected pieces from various periods. A spoken introduction at the beginning of each concert ensures that the audience is emotionally and intellectually involved throughout the performance.

One of their most recent projects, Echoes of Latitude, is an expression of this philosophy. The program explores the 20th century as a time of profound musical expression, framing it as a conversation between continents. The repertoire includes works from eight countries in Europe and the Americas, symbolizing intercultural conversation and historical reflection.

From Spain to Europe with Merita

Prior to joining the Merita Platform, the quartet’s activities were mostly confined to Spain. The turning point came when they met Merita in 2022. Having witnessed other Spanish ensembles involved with the platform performing at institutions like the Escuela Superior de Música Reina Sofía and the Juan March Foundation, the Matrice Quartet realized that Merita could be the stepping stone to the next phase of their professional careers.

Funded by Le Dimore del Quartetto and co-funded by the European Union, the Merita Platform offers the unique opportunity for artists to perform and develop their projects in historic homes across Europe. The Matrice Quartet was privileged to be selected, enjoying a residency at the picturesque Villa di Geggiano near Florence. The location’s serene natural setting and excellent acoustics proved ideal for creativity and collaboration.

Artistic Development Under Guidance

The other important element of their residency was mentoring by Florian Vlachy, a multifaceted and highly skilled musician. His piercing but brief mentoring helped the ensemble reach new levels of musical understanding and cohesion. The quartet was extremely thankful for his role in refining their project and solidifying their interpretative skills.

A Vision for the Future

Having completed this life-altering experience, the Matrice Quartet has its eyes on the future. New projects within the framework of the Merita Platform’s mission are already underway, and they look forward to bringing their revolutionary programs to new concert halls around Europe. Their vision is clear: to continue developing as a quartet, to share their love of chamber music, and to lead listeners on memorable musical journeys.

As the four reflect on their time in Tuscany, they emphasize the importance of cultural preservation. Initiatives like the Merita Platform not only bring aid to musicians but also resurrect the ancient locations of Europe’s past. Locations that had been devoid of sound live once more in and through music, creating bonds which endure over centuries.

Final Notes

For the Matrice Quartet, to be on the Merita Platform is more than a career highlight – it’s an immensely enriching human and artistic experience. Through their music, they try to transport people across continents, cultures, and emotions. And as they sign off in their last words, “We are deeply grateful for this opportunity. Thanks to projects like Merita that stand for culture and our cultural heritage, these places – and the music within them – will remain alive indefinitely.”

Keep listening, and follow the echoes.