The Uptown String Quartet

On today’s episode, we’re talking with The Uptown String Quartet, a group that was formed in the 80s and guided by the legendary American drummer and Composer Max Roach. The group started as a double quartet that played with Max’s band and later became a group that consisted of violinists Diane Monroe and Lesa Terry, Max’s Daughter - Violist Maxine Roach and their late colleague, cellist Eileen Folson.

This all-Black, all-women string quartet has pushed boundaries and redefined what it means to be virtuosi since the mid-80’s. From their roots in Harlem to stages across the globe, the Uptown String Quartet was one of the first groups to notably bridge African-American sounds - like blues, swing, jazz, soul, funk, and improvisation with string quartets.

From playing jazz venues like the Blue Note to performing notable programs like The Cosby Show and Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, we’re going to explore the quartet’s rich history, their memorable moments, and the unique stories that have shaped them as artists and as trailblazers in the music world.