The quartet was formed in 2001 when Helen Clarke (violin) and Lucy Deakin (cello) met at Leeds College of Music. Magenta has developed into a vibrant young ensemble and play for weddings and functions throughout the northwest. In addition to the quartet of four players, Helen & Lucy also perform regularly as a string duo.

The repertoire of the quartet is well suited to a wide range of events and has been well received at weddings, receptions, birthdays, surprise proposals and bar mitzvah.

Recent venues have included:

• The Clock Tower, Leeds Town Hall
• Leeds Civic Hall
• Ripley Castle, Harrogate
• Wood Hall Hotel, Linton
• Hilton National Hotel, Leeds
• Harrogate Pavillions
• Waterton Park Hotel, Wakefield
• Hazlewood Castle, North Yorkshire
• Leeds City Art Gallery