In 1989, the Kontra Quartet became the first Danish ensemble in many years to be appointed as a State ensemble, allowing its members more time for tours and recordings.
Composer Biography
Niels W. Gade, a Danish composer, died unexpectedly on December 21, 1890, after playing the organ at Holmens Church and having coffee with Edvard Grieg.
Compositional Technique
None of Gade's three quartets recorded here are formally innovative, largely following classical patterns, though the F minor Quartet has interesting departures like a passacaglia introduction.
Composer Biography
Gade was not only Denmark's foremost composer but also enjoyed European fame, having conducted the renowned Gewandhaus concerts in Leipzig as Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy's successor.
Composer's Artistic Vision
As a composer and musician, Gade was of a conservative disposition, believing that a concert institution's primary task is to perform works of the greatest masters to maintain good taste.
Performer Biography
The Kontra Quartet, founded in 1973 by Anton Kontra, quickly established itself as one of Scandinavia's leading chamber ensembles.
