Monticello Strings

Monticello Strings is a string chamber group of faculty and student string majors consisting of James Madison University professors Wanchi (violin), Diane Phoenix-Neal (viola), Aiveen Gallagher (violin), Carl Donakowski (cello) and JMU School of Music students. Collectively, they have performed worldwide as soloists, chamber music and orchestral musicians.

Violist Diane Phoenix-Neal performs nationally and internationally as a collaborative chamber musician and as a soloist. Her sound is described as “rich and sumptuous” (Classical Voice of North Carolina) with “an admirable combination of precision and fire” (The New York Times). Originally from North Carolina, she received her training from UNC School of the Arts, the Juilliard School, and holds a DMA from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.  Full bio

Wanchi's CDs have been excellently reviewed (“her incisive technique and an exceptionally rich and beautiful tone...”by Phil's Classical Reviews, Audio Video Club of Atlanta.) She is an active performer in chamber music, solo recitals, and as a soloist with orchestras throughout North America and Asia, at venues including Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and numerous music festivals. She joined Curtis on Tour for 2017-18 season, touring the West Coast with guitarist Jordan Dodson.  Full bio

Violinist Aiveen Gallagher is a string artist from Ireland, and has performed extensively in Europe, the UK, and the USA. She has been a featured soloist on several occasions at the International Viola Congress and the American Viola Society Congress. She is a three-time international prize-winner in chamber music among many other awards. Full bio

Cellist Carl Donakowski pursues a international career in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Early in his career he was a finalist in the Mendelssohn Competition in Berlin. Since then, his recital performances have been enjoyed at the Kennedy Center and all over the world. As a Professor of Music and JMU he received the distinguished teaching award. Full bio