Classical review: Zehetmair Quartet, Beethoven/Bruckner/Hartmann/Holliger (ECM)
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Four mighty landmarks in 180 years of string quartet writing start with Beethoven’s late Op 135 of 1826 followed by a Bruckner rarity, his C minor “student” composition written in 1862 at the age of 38 when the master of choral and organ music was learning orchestration.
Hartmann’s 1945 Quartet No 2, based on the notes F-E-G-H (B flat), a reference to the Vegh Quartett who gave it its first performance, is an abrasive response to the Second World War, evoking Shostakovich’s heartfelt dissonances. Heinz Holliger’s String Quartet No 2, dedicated to Elliott Carter and written for the Zehetmair, applies a thin layer of vocal keening to a mysterious soundworld and ends this stupendous musical journey, skilfully navigated.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments