The Ito String Quartet was formed in 2025 following violinist Iona’s appointment as fourth chair of the first violin section of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. Prior to this, Kanako, Andrew, and Martin had performed extensively together as the Ito–Berridge–Storey String Trio, appearing in venues across Scotland and collaborating in numerous piano quartet works as part of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland’s concert series.

Although the ensemble is relatively new in its quartet formation, its members bring substantial chamber music experience. Kanako and Martin were previously members of Quartet Accorda in the United States, while Iona is the first violinist of the Asaka Quartet, winners of the Tunnel Trust Prize.

Kanako has served as Associate Leader of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra since 2014. Iona joined the BBCSSO in November 2024 after graduating from the Royal Academy of Music in London. Violist Andrew is currently Acting Principal Violist of the BBCSSO and is also a member of the Scottish Ensemble. Cellist Martin was formerly Principal Cellist of the BBCSSO and of Scottish Opera and he is now Chamber Music