The Vilachel String Quartet
Experience the Rich Harmony of the Vilachel String Quartet
What is Vilächel? (Vel-ah-chul)
Our string quartet is an ensemble based in Edmonds, Washington, composed of four classically trained college students. We bring our dedication to music and each other to every event, providing a warm, well blended sound. From corporate events, to weddings or parties, our extensive repertoire will compliment any occasion. We strive to provide ideal musical selections that will enhance your event.
Hailing from the vibrant Seattle metropolitan area, the Vilachel String Quartet brings a sophisticated and soulful atmosphere to every stage they grace. Composed of four exceptionally talented, classically trained musicians, this ensemble is renowned for a warm, well-blended sound that only comes from years of performing in unison. Whether they are performing in a grand concert hall or an intimate garden setting, the quartet’s dedication to their craft ensures a musical backdrop that is as seamless as it is breathtaking. Their presence transforms any gathering into a high-caliber event, leaving a lasting impression on every guest in attendance.
The quartet’s versatility is their hallmark, boasting an expansive repertoire that bridges the gap between timeless classical masterpieces and contemporary favorites. From the intricate works of the masters to modern arrangements that surprise and delight, the Vilachel String Quartet tailors their performance to the unique "vibe" of your occasion. Their professional ease allows hosts to focus on their guests while the music flows effortlessly; as one satisfied client noted, the ensemble handles every detail with such grace that the music becomes the most stress-free part of the planning process. Their commitment to excellence is evident in their ability to compliment any atmosphere, from the high-stakes energy of a corporate function to the poignant beauty of a wedding ceremony.
What sets this ensemble apart is the individual pedigree of its members, who bring a wealth of experience from prestigious venues like Benaroya Hall and various regional symphony programs. With backgrounds in music education, therapy, and professional performance, the members of the Vilachel String Quartet possess a deep technical mastery of the violin, viola, and cello. This intellectual and emotional depth translates into a performance that is not just heard, but felt. Their shared history as friends and collaborators since 2019 creates a palpable chemistry on stage, resulting in a performance that is tight, emotive, and flawlessly executed.
For an experience your guests will talk about for years to come, look no further than booking the Vilachel String Quartet. Whether you are planning an elegant gala, a private celebration, or a corporate milestone, this premier Seattle-area ensemble provides the perfect soundtrack to your most important moments. Their passion for sharing music is matched only by their professionalism, ensuring that your event is underscored by the very best in live string performance.
Meet the Team
Kai Hartmann is a classically trained violinist who has been playing for over seventeen years and has been a member of the Vilachel String Quartet since 2019. With experience in studio recitals, Solo Ensemble festivals, orchestra, and pit orchestra performances, Kai enjoys performing a wide range of musical styles for weddings, private events, and community gatherings. Outside of music, he is passionate about law and politics, graduated from the University of Washington in 2023, and currently works for a local legal aid organization while preparing for law school. In his free time, Kai enjoys spending time with his dog, riding motorcycles, and watching soccer.
Hwa Jung Choi serves as the quartet’s second violinist and has been performing for more than fourteen years. Their performance experience includes weddings, retirement communities, festivals, and a wide variety of live events throughout the Pacific Northwest since 2015. Hwa Jung is also a member of the Rainbow City Orchestra and had the honor of performing the “Spectrum of Identity” set at Benaroya Hall with the Rainbow City Band. Alongside their musical career, they are currently studying in preparation for the CPA exam.
Elise Yi is currently studying Music Education at Seattle Pacific University with the goal of becoming a teacher. Although viola is now her primary role within the quartet, she originally trained as a violinist and served as Principal Second Violin for both the Symphonic and Philharmonic Orchestras at Edmonds Woodway High School. Elise also gained experience performing in theater productions under Mark Press at Driftwood Theater and Madrona School Plays, while additionally performing as a cellist in Concert Orchestra under Karen Helseth. Today, she shares her love of music as a violin and viola instructor at Puget Sound Music Academy.
Andrew Tjandra is a Seattle-born musician, arranger, composer, and instrumentalist who co-manages the Vilachel String Quartet. Having studied cello for nine years and piano for over fifteen years, Andrew has performed with numerous ensembles, orchestral productions, religious organizations, and live musical performances throughout the region. He previously taught with Puget Sound Music Academy and West Side Music Academy and currently serves as an accompanist for the Sno-King Music Educators Association in Washington. Andrew holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy and currently works with Chrysalis Music Therapy and AccentCare, providing music therapy services throughout the greater Seattle area. Outside of music, he enjoys composing, arranging, experimenting with new recipes, and exploring Seattle’s culinary scene.