The Gabrieli String Quartet gave world premieres of works by several notable composers, including Benjamin Britten and William Alwyn.
Recording & Production
This recording was made in September 1989 at the Church of St Silas, Kentish Town, London NW5.
Performer Biography
The Gabrieli String Quartet, founded in 1967 by violinist Kenneth Sillito, became one of the world's most renowned quartets, with a busy international career.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The A major Quartet's motto motif from Mendelssohn's song 'Frage' is based on a love poem by Johann Heinrich Voss, which begins with the words, 'Is it true that you are waiting for me in the arbour by the vine-clad wall?'
Composition History
The String Quartet No. 2 in A major, Op. 13 was composed before the String Quartet No. 1 in E flat major, Op. 12, but was published later, leading to the incorrect numbering.
Compositional Technique
Mendelssohn's A major Quartet uses a three-note motif (C sharp, B, D) from his song 'Frage' as a motto, appearing at the beginning and end of the quartet.
Composer Biography
Felix Mendelssohn was a child prodigy, second only to Mozart in his natural gifts and prolific output.
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Mendelssohn Bartholdy: Sämtliche Streichquartette, Vol. 1.
