About the Grand Rapids String Quartet
The Grand Rapids String Quartet, formed in 2024, is dedicated to performing at the highest artistic standard, delivering dynamic and engaging performances for a wide range of occasions. With a passion for the timeless beauty of chamber music, we aim to make this genre both accessible and relevant to all audiences, whether through intimate recitals or personalized music for weddings and special events.
Proudly serving the greater West Michigan area, we specialize in creating unforgettable experiences by offering exceptional live music tailored to the unique atmosphere of each occasion. We are highly adaptable and versatile, skilled in performing a variety of styles and fulfilling special requests to ensure that every event is personalized. We take pride in our professionalism, prompt communication, and friendly service, while fostering a vibrant cultural scene through regular performances that inspire and deepen the appreciation of classical and contemporary music.
Elise Smith
Elise Smith is a teacher and performer who values the expressive and collaborative nature of music. She holds a masters degree in violin performance from the University of Oklahoma and a bachelor's degree in music education from Calvin University. After graduate school, she taught middle school choir and mariachi in Oklahoma, then orchestra, private string lessons and children’s choir in Michigan. She enjoys performing in Fountain Street Church services, Plymouth Chamber Players recitals, and a wide variety of festivals, weddings, and other events.
Ashley Grace Davies
Ashley Grace Davies is a passionate violinist who has been pursuing music since she was 4 years old. Ashley Grace served as concert master for the Grand Valley State University Orchestra for 3 years and has continued to enjoy playing since completing her undergraduate degree. She has been featured as a guest soloist for the Vintage Parlor Orchestra and has played for many venues and groups in the area. When she is not playing the violin, she is working on completing her masters degree in biostatistics through Grand Valley and enjoying nature through backpacking trips around the country.
Darren Chan
Darren Chan is a violist, chamber musician, and educator dedicated to fostering excellence in both performance and teaching. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Viola Performance from the University of the Pacific Conservatory of Music and a Master’s degree in Violin Performance from Western Michigan University.
Darren currently serves as Principal Violist of the Lansing Symphony Orchestra and frequently performs with other local orchestras. He appears frequently as a guest artist and soloist with the Calvin Community Orchestra and is passionate about community, outreach, and education, often collaborating with local community orchestras. His artistry extends to educational outreach, where he is invited to teach at local schools in addition to leading his private studio of violin and viola students.
McCormack Wyn
McCormack Wyn began learning the cello at the age of fourteen. He studied cello with Karen Krummel in high school and with Horacio Contreras and Pablo Mahave-Veglia during his undergraduate years. McCormack is the Associate Principal Cellist for Holland Symphony, and he often plays for Grand Rapids Civic and Circle Theaters, other local orchestras, and other, nontraditional venues. McCormack teaches private lessons at the Ada Conservatory of Music and loves to share his joy for classical music and birds with others, pointing out how the beauty of art and the natural world reflects the goodness of God.
