Duke Arts Exchange Masterclass with Nicholas Kitchen and Yeesun Kim

Experience a rare opportunity to learn from two of today's most esteemed chamber musicians as Nicholas Kitchen (violin) and Yeesun Kim (cello), founding members of the internationally celebrated Borromeo String Quartet, who return to Duke for the annual Duke Arts Exchange Masterclass. Known worldwide for their artistic depth, visionary interpretations, and pioneering use of technology in performance, Kitchen and Kim bring decades of chamber music leadership to this immersive educational event.

The Duke Arts Exchange is a unique initiative that fosters ongoing musical dialogue between Duke University and the New England Conservatory (NEC) in Boston. Each fall, Duke students enrolled in Meeting the World Through Chamber Music (MUS 398S) travel to NEC for intensive coaching, masterclasses, and collaborative performances. In the spring, the exchange comes full circle as Kitchen and Kim visit Duke to work closely with chamber ensembles across the department, offering mentorship that bridges institutions, traditions, and artistic perspectives.

Students and audience members alike will gain insight into the interpretive decisions, rehearsal strategies, and musical storytelling that define great chamber playing. Kitchen and Kim are known for their warm, incisive teaching style-helping young musicians unlock new layers of expression, communication, and ensemble cohesion. Their visit also sets the stage for the following fall semester's projects, including innovative collaborations such as the conductorless chamber orchestra concert first introduced at Duke in 2023 and led by NEC master's students.

Whether you are part of the chamber program, an aspiring musician, or simply eager to witness master artists in action, this masterclass offers an inspiring window into the creative partnerships that fuel Duke's vibrant musical community.

Free and open to the public. All are welcome.