British viola player Roger Tapping, who for a decade was a member of the Takács Quartet, will join the Juilliard String Quartet from September 2013. He replaces Samuel Rhodes, who has been a member of the Juilliard Quartet since 1969 and who remains chairman of the viola department at The Juilliard School. Currently a faculty member at New England Conservatory, Tapping will also join Juilliard’s viola faculty in autumn 2013.

‘The JSQ has been one of the most important ensembles before the public since its creation in 1946, and has existed as the foundation for string chamber music studies at Juilliard for decades,’ said Juilliard president Joseph W Polisi. ‘Roger Tapping’s appointment continues this long tradition of excellence as our distinguished colleague Sam Rhodes steps down from his position with the ensemble. I wish to express my personal gratitude to Sam for his artistry and his leadership as a member of the Quartet and the Juilliard faculty, and look forward to his continuing presence as a viola teacher and chamber music coach at the School.’

Rhodes celebrates his final 44th year with the Quartet this season, performing with fellow members, violinists Joseph Lin and Ronald Copes and cellist Joel Krosnick until July. The Quartet was founded 66 years ago as The Juilliard School’s resident quartet, during which time 13 string players have been members.