Maxwell Quartet: Alberga, Prokofiev and Brahms

During the Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941 Prokofiev was evacuated to Nalchik in the Kabardia region (on a modern map, just north of Georgia). He was quickly drawn to the distinctive folk music in his new location, and delighted in drawing its pungent rhythms into the classical form of his String Quartet No.2. The piece is punchy and propulsive, sometimes as prickly as the composer himself.

Brahms’ String Quartet No.2 in A minor is full of a characteristic mix of lyricism, precision and a touch of turbulence. Yet it also has a deeply personal connection to Brahms’ great friend, the Hungarian violinist Joseph Joachim. One of the composer’s most tender works, it is further warmed by this touching friendship.

This concert also includes the UK premiere of the exciting String Quartet No.4 by renowned British composer Eleanor Alberga.

Maxwell Quartet:
Colin Scobie violin
George Smith violin
Elliott Perks viola
Duncan Strachan cello