Brodsky Quartet

KRYSIA OSOSTOWICZ (violin)

IAN BELTON (violin)

PAUL CASSIDY (viola)

JACQUELINE THOMAS (cello)

Shostakovich

11th String Quartet

Mozart

Prussian Quartet KV589

Beethoven

String Quartet Op 130

This fine programme draws on the Brodsky’s depth of insight through complete sets of Beethoven & Shostakovich quartets. The 11th Quartet by the latter was played by the Dante Quartet at PMF18, when Krysia led them. In 7 short movements, it responds to the death of a quartet friend, going through a range of emotions, ending in a serene finale with a neat coda departure. Mozart’s Prussian Quartets may have been composed out of financial necessity, but this is bold and relaxed, in concertante style, with operatic flourishes. The sheer ambition of Beethoven’s late Op 130 Bb Quartet is breathtaking – in some senses unsurpassed. Although we shall hear it without the Grosse Fuge, these six movements are truly glorious and varied, with the exquisite Cavatina at its heart.

Bringing unrivalled authority to performance of string quartet repertoire since 1972, the Brodsky Quartet has performed over 3,500 concerts on major stages across the world and have released more than 70 recordings. A natural curiosity and insatiable desire to explore has propelled them in many artistic directions, ensuring not only a prominent presence on the international chamber music scene, but also a rich and varied musical existence. Their energy and craftsmanship have attracted numerous awards and accolades, while ongoing educational work provides a vehicle to pass on experience and stay in touch with the next generation.