A most pleasing and refreshing performance last night:
Mozart String Quartet in G, K387
Peteris Vasks St Qt 5
Smetana St Qt No 1 in E minor, (From My Life)
Previously, I only knew the Artemis Quartet from a bargain offer of their complete performances of the Beethoven String Quartet, a welcome addition to my collection. Presenter, Martin Handley commented that they prefer to perform in a standing position as a means of direct audience contact. My own preference in an audience would still be for the musicians to remain in a semi-circle, seated position, as the eye contact with each other communicates more readily with me.
I'm keen to learn more about Peteris Vasks and note that his Cor Anglais Concerto is part of today's Ao3 (10 Dec).
The performance of Smetana's From My Life was given the rare accolade of a prolonged silence at its conclusion. I really felt that I was back in the Hall!
May I indulge in a rider? Re complete performances of the Beethoven String Quartets, I've made a diary note that a complete cycle will be performed by the Elias Quartet, R3 Lunchtime Concert, 13.00hrs from Monday, 29 Dec to Frid, 2 Jan 2015 - finishing times vary each day so please check if recording.
Mozart String Quartet in G, K387
Peteris Vasks St Qt 5
Smetana St Qt No 1 in E minor, (From My Life)
Previously, I only knew the Artemis Quartet from a bargain offer of their complete performances of the Beethoven String Quartet, a welcome addition to my collection. Presenter, Martin Handley commented that they prefer to perform in a standing position as a means of direct audience contact. My own preference in an audience would still be for the musicians to remain in a semi-circle, seated position, as the eye contact with each other communicates more readily with me.
I'm keen to learn more about Peteris Vasks and note that his Cor Anglais Concerto is part of today's Ao3 (10 Dec).
The performance of Smetana's From My Life was given the rare accolade of a prolonged silence at its conclusion. I really felt that I was back in the Hall!
May I indulge in a rider? Re complete performances of the Beethoven String Quartets, I've made a diary note that a complete cycle will be performed by the Elias Quartet, R3 Lunchtime Concert, 13.00hrs from Monday, 29 Dec to Frid, 2 Jan 2015 - finishing times vary each day so please check if recording.
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