Departure Duo is a Boston-based soprano/double bass duo comprised of Nina Guo and Edward Kass. Committed to expanding the repertoire for this “high-low” combination, Departure Duo commissions new works and breathes life into existing pieces. The duo’s long-term goal, “30x’30”, is to have 30 hours of soprano/double bass repertoire written by 2030.

Nina and Eddie are particularly interested in how extended technique and theatricality can expand the range of expression for players and engage audiences. A Departure Duo concert showcases the variety of styles and sounds within the soprano/double bass universe. By celebrating the diversity found within this small (but growing!) corner of music, Departure Duo aims to counter new music's notoriety and promote accessibility for all audiences.

Named semi-finalists in the 2016 Concert Artist Guild Competition, Departure Duo has performed in Boston, Los Angeles, Montreal, New York, and more. Highlights include appearances at Spoleto Festival USA (2018), Omaha Under the Radar (2017), Columbia University (2017), and a residency at University of Georgia (2018).

Nina and Eddie hold degrees from New England Conservatory where each was awarded the John Cage Award for Outstanding Contributions to Contemporary Music Performance. Individually, the two have spent summers at festivals such as Tanglewood Music Center, Darmstadt Ferienkurse, and Lucerne Festival Academy.