April 7, 2003: See Lucia and Mike in Fly Rod and Reel "Who Fly-Fishes? Classical musicians talk fine music and fly-fishing" by Matthew Mayo.

When asked if they saw any similarities between performing classical music and fly fishing, Mike noted that both depend on timing, rhythm, and concentration. "There are very few fields where you have to concentrate as hard as you do as a performer on a stage. I think a lot of the most successful fly-fishers have a similar degree of concentration where you block out absolutely everything else in your consciousness besides the task at hand, so that you’re focusing minutely on what you’re doing."

Luci added "Also, with a string instrument, trying different rods is a lot like trying different bows; there are subtle differences, comparing different bows and how they react. And practice makes perfect, except that you never get perfect. With fishing or music!"

December 1, 2002: Muir String Quartet announces Emerging Quartets and Composers Residency Program, in collaboration with composer Joan Tower.

The Muir String Quartet and Joan Tower will conduct a unique program for emerging string quartets and composers, set in the picturesque mountains of Park City, Utah.

This three-week program runs June 19 through July 7, 2004. Young quartets and composers will have the opportunity to interact, rehearse and perform world premieres of new works by rising composers.

Quartets will also spend three weeks working intensively with members of the renowned Muir String Quartet.

This unique program combines intensive musical performance coaching with lectures on general business management and public relations. The topics of commissioning new works, along with informal and public performances, will provide students who love chamber music with the opportunity to create the groundwork for lasting careers in this challenging field.

This all-scholarship program is made possible by generous donors, and includes all coaching and housing. There is also a $1,500 travel allowance for each student quartet.

The activities will take place at the lovely Empire Lodge at Deer Valley.

The Emerging Quartets Program was begun in 1990 by the Muir Quartet and the Snowbird Institute. Originally housed at the Snowbird Resort, the program moved to Park City in 1997. Beginning in 2002, this residency is under the auspices of Classics for Kids Foundation, which supports music performance education programs for young people nationwide through matching instrument grants and mentoring.

To learn more contact:
Michael Reynolds, Artistic Director