The Orava Quartet was founded in 2007, consisting of siblings Daniel Kowalik (violin), Sylwia Waples (violin) and Karol Kowalik (cello), with Thomas Chawner (viola). They were joined by Brisbane violinist, David Dalseno on second violin in 2012. Based in Sydney, they have performed locally and nationally in venues including the Utzon Room in Sydney Opera House, Melbourne Recital Centre and City Recital Hall, Angel Place. Internationally, Orava have performed in Canada, China, United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong, and in 2010 completed a highly successful tour of Asia for Musica Viva with world-renowned didgeridoo performer and composer William Barton. The quartet regularly performs at festivals which include the Musica Viva Festival, The Sydney Vivid Festival, Crossroads and Chinese Gardens Music Festival, and have performed for Queen Sofia of Spain and Pope Benedict XVI.

The Orava Quartet is privileged to have been selected to study at Colorado University, Boulder U.S.A, where they are studying as the graduate quartet in residence with the world renowned Takacs String Quartet. This is made possible by the generous support of the University of Colorado Boulder, by the provision of a full scholarship for the quartet. Further support from the PPCA Performers' Trust Foundation, the Australian Music Foundation, Ian Potter Cultural Trust, the Australia Council for the Arts and Ars Musica Australis is greatly appreciated.

The Orava Quartet has received many scholarships including the Chamber Music Residency at the prestigious Banff Arts Centre in Canada, and in 2009 was selected as one of six finalists for the Asia-Pacific Chamber Music Competition. Orava has also been featured on 2MBS FMs Rising Stars On-Air program, and as part of the Musica Viva Rising Stars Series.

In addition to the quartet's determination and passion, Orava’s other inspirations include having studied with members of the Takacs, Emerson, Australian, St Lawrence, Schoenberg, Jerusalem, Brentano, Julliard and Goldner String Quartets. In Sydney, Orava is mentored by prominent Australian educators Uzi Wiesel, Ole Böhn and Janet Davies.