LvB250 – STRING QUARTETS, part 2

Spanish string quartet Cuarteto Casals will perform all of Beethoven’s string quartets in 2020 – the big Beethoven year. The 16 quartets came in three phases throughout his lifetime – and each phase comprised a dizzying stride forward for the art of the quartet. The acclaimed Cuarteto Casals debuted at Konserthuset in 2007 and have returned several times, most recently in 2016.

Of the six quartets in Opus 18, the Quartet in A Major is utterly uncomplicated. It radiates light and harmony and generally lacks contrasting episodes. It is entertaining in the best meaning of the word, with beautiful themes, constantly shifting instrumental combinations and a conversational tone, all expressed with elegant playfulness and ethereal grace.

Quartet No. 10 in E-flat Major is more intimate, and the contrast between the movements is more important than continuity. This quartet is often called the Harp Quartet because of the harp-like effects of the first movement.

The Opus 127 Quartet was perceived in Beethoven’s time as the most accessible of the five late quartets. The first movement is tender, lovable and lyrical; the second has a lofty theme with six variations. The third movement is one of Beethoven’s longest and most remarkable scherzo movements, while the fourth and final is an allegro with constant surprises.