Invoke

Invoke successfully dodges even the most valiant attempts at genre classification. The multi-instrumental quartet encompasses traditions from across America, including bluegrass, Appalachian fiddle tunes, jazz, and minimalism. Fueled by a passion for storytelling, Invoke weaves all of these styles together to form a unique contemporary repertoire that also features original works composed by and for the group.

In 2018, Invoke was named a winner of the Concert Artists Guild Victor Elmaleh Competition in New York City and received First Prize at both the M-Prize International Chamber Arts competition in Ann Arbor, MI, and the Coltman Competition in Austin, Texas. Invoke was the Young Professional String Quartet in Residence at the University of Texas at Austin from 2016–18.

Invoke has shared the stage with some of the most acclaimed chamber groups in the country, including the Westerlies, Miró, and Ensō Quartets and the US Army Field Band. Invoke has also appeared with musicians from various genres, including composer-performer Clarice Assad, chamber rock group San Fermin, indie group Never Shout Never, and DC beatboxer/rapper/spoons virtuoso Christylez Bacon. Along with Lara Downes, the group continues to collaborate with composer-performer Clarice Assad and trumpeter Brandon Ridenour.

Invoke’s discography includes its debut album, Souls in the Mud (2015); Furious Creek (2018); Fantastic Planet (2021); and Evolve & Travel (2023). The group’s recording credits appear on bassist/composer Ethan Foote’s solo album Fields Burning, singer/songwriter Marian McLaughlin’s Spirit House, jazz/soul singer Rochelle Rice’s EP Wonder, and many more. Invoke has also worked extensively with composer Graham Reynolds and his nonprofit organization, Golden Hornet, recording volumes IV–VI of String Quartet Smackdown, Marfa: A Country & Western Big Band Suite, and music for the films Where’d You Go, Bernadette (2019) and Hit Man (2023).

Invoke is strongly committed to championing diverse American voices through commissioning and highlighting new music. Its ongoing commissioning project American Postcards asks composers to pick a time and place in American history and tell its story through the group’s unique artistry.

Invoke is sponsored by and endorses Dolfinos products and utilizes both their Miniput music stands and chinrest systems.
For more information, visit www.invokesound.com.