The Bochmann Quartet, Michael Bochmann and Mark Messenger (violins), Helen Roberts (viola) and Peter Adams (cello), were on extremely good form. Their cohesion and rapport was paramount as they achieved high quality ensemble in a programme of lyrical and profound music.
Mozart's Quartet in D minor, K421 immediately showed attention had been paid to details, as subtly phrased episodes were passed around. The ravishing third movement dance of the first violin while the others plucked delicately, and in the fourth the viola's variation, and the cello's agility, were other examples.
Quartet in C minor Op.18 No.4 by Beethoven was particularly distinctive for its finely wrought sensitivity of expression. The cello's beautiful melody rising up in the Allegro ma non tanto, then the later, wonderful theme from the first violin with additions of the second violin and viola, was powerful and eloquent.
Variegations of light and shade were extended fully in Andante scherzoso quasi Allegretto, and their quickening of pace in the third movement was as if by one body.
In the last movement, observations of momentary pauses and a slick closing phrase added to an outstanding delivery,
In Dvorak's Quartet in F, B179 (American) memorable tunes and syncopated rhythms abounded.
The second movement Lento contained so much tender passion and awesome expression. Molto pianissimo playing was superb, and the cello's plucking was brilliant.
Towards the end, a harmonic section, alert interaction between the musicians unswerving, led to the finale of a concert, much enjoyed.
Jill Hopkins
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