The String Quartet in F minor, Op. 80, is described as an 'unexpected pre-Expressionistic quartet' with an agitated style and sinister key, differing from his earlier works.
Instruments
František Souček, the first violinist of the Zemlinsky Quartet, plays an Italian instrument attributed to Nicolaus Gagliano (1776), which is part of the Czech State Collection.
Composition History
Mendelssohn's String Quartet in F minor, Op. 80, was composed in September 1847, the year of his death, after the passing of his beloved sister Fanny.
Historical Context
During the Third Reich, Mendelssohn's music was banned in Germany and his scores were destroyed.
Composer Biography
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy died prematurely at 38 years old, on November 4, 1847.
Performer Biography
The Zemlinsky Quartet, founded in 1994, continues the great Czech string quartet tradition and has won numerous international awards.
Critical Reception
Mendelssohn's music was highly regarded in England until the early 20th century, but on the Continent, his fame was limited to a few pieces from A Midsummer Night's Dream.
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Haydn: String Quartet in G Major, Op. 77 No. 1, Hob. III:81
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: String Quintets Nos. 4 & 5
