Dokwerk Saxophone Quartet

MSM Quartet

Nikita Akulov, violin
Alejandro Ruiz, vioin
Julia Ferrer, viola
Judit Diaz, cello

Maastricht Society of Music (MSM) traces its origins to 2016 when Nikita Akulov, the ensemble's first violinist , founded the organization with a vision to foster collaboration between music students at the Conservatorium Maastricht and cultural institutions/private clients. The initial concept centered on creating an association that facilitated performance opportunities for its members while bridging connections with various cultural entities.
Gradually , the ensemble transitioned into a fixed string quartet format ion, recognizing the success and cohesion achieved within this configuration. Thus, in 2018, the MSM String Quartet was finally established.

With a diverse roster of musicians with different nationalities, the quartet boasts a distinctive international character . Since its inception, the MSM Quartet has performed over 200 concerts throughout The Netherlands and across Europe. With polished classical artistry, MSM is devoted to 20th-century repertoire and vividly engaged with new music.

MSM was honored with a grant in the Stadsgoud Competition, organized by the Elisabeth Strouven Fonds, in recognition of its innovative approach to community engagement through social and cultural events. This grant has since been instrumental in realizing the Maastricht Classical Chamber Music Series, which debuted in 2019, enriching the cultural landscape of the region.

MSM Quartet was awarded the Grand Prix du Public at the Maastricht Awards of Music in 2022. In 2024 they win the First Great Award at the Vienna International Competition. This accomplishment affords the quartet the opportunity to record their Debut Album with Orpheus Label, which will be distributed and promoted internationally , launching and propelling their global recognition.

Since 2024, the quartet has been affiliated with the Netherlands String Quartet Academy (NSKA) where they receive mentorship. MSM is also a member of the international initiative Musethica.