2009-10 Repertoire
“Rhythmic Innovation”
Franz Joseph Haydn: Quartet in D Major, Op.20, No.4
Bela Bartok: Quartet No. 2
Johannes Brahms: Viola Quintet in F Major, Op.88
Rhythm is among the more subtle elements of a string quartet, but it plays a crucial role that is often underestimated. Feel your pulse alternately quicken with excitement and slow in moments of transcendent beauty as the Arianna String Quartet takes you on a fascinating journey through three pieces that explore the intriguing effects of rhythm. It will be an evening of thrilling music you will never forget!
“Messages of Hope”
Hans Krása: Theme and Variations for String Quartet (1936)
Gideon Klein: String Quartet, Op.2 (1941)
Viktor Ullmann: Quartet No.3 (1943)
Pavel Haas: Quartet No.1, Op.3 (1920)
Erwin Schulhoff: Five Pieces (1923)
The Arianna Quartet presents this concert dedicated to the music of composers whose lives and profound work were cut short by the horrific crimes of the Holocaust. Exploring the timeless relevance of music as Messages of Hope, as symbols of resistance and as the inextinguishable voice of humanity, the ASQ will perform works by Erwin Schulhoff, Hans Krása, Gideon Klein, Viktor Ullmann and Pavel Haas.
“Revolution!”
The Complete Op.18 Quartets
Ludwig van Beethoven
Immerse yourself in an entire evening of Beethoven as the Arianna Quartet guides you through the Complete Op.18 Quartets. Begin the evening with wine and cheese, join the quartet for a pre-concert discussion, and continue with an unforgettable experience of Beethoven’s mastery. Enjoy complimentary drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and dessert during intermissions. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience six works that changed classical music forever – all in one special performance!
“Triple Crown”
W.A. Mozart: Quartet in Eb Major, K. 428
Bela Bartok: Quartet No.4
Robert Schumann: Piano Quintet in E-flat Major, Op.44
with Chiharu Iinuma, piano
These works represent crowning achievements by three of classical music’s greatest composers. Mozart’s beguiling Quartet K.428 earned praise from Haydn, who dubbed him “the greatest composer known to me.” Bartok’s 4th Quartet shows him at the zenith of his powers and is a true lion of the repertoire. The series closes with Schumann’s majestic Piano Quintet, the crowning glory of his magnificent chamber works. An evening of regal proportions! St. Louis Magazine says, “if you never go out to listen to music at all, just once go, go hear the Arianna Quartet play.”