.svg)
.svg)
An expert guide to string quartets.
For those who aren’t musicians or music lovers, it can be confusing to book a string ensemble. Luckily for you, we are here to make the process much easier.
In short, a string quartet can be two things: a musical composition written for an ensemble of 4 string instruments, as well as the name given to the ensemble itself.
A traditional string quartet is made up of two violins, a viola, and a cello. Other ensemble types may exist, such as 3 violins and a cello, although these varieties are far less common.
String quartets rose in popularity during the 18th century, when composers like Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Schubert, and Ludwig Van Beethoven began composing music for the ensemble. These compositions were highly favored by families and chamber musicians at the time because they represented a way for four musicians of equal skill levels to get together and perform.
A string quartet written in the classical period was usually composed of four movements with a musical structure similar to that of a Symphony:
- First movement: An allegro movement written in the “tonic” key;
- Second movement: A slower movement in a related key;
- Third movement: A return to the tonic key with a Minuet, Scherzo, and/or Trio;
- Fourth movement: Typically characterized by a “Rondo” form in the tonic key.
As new musical styles and groups develop, it may seem like the definition of a string quartet is more ambiguous than ever before. For example, some classically-trained groups like the Borromeo String Quartet are traditional in their approach and work to actively record and perform Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and 20th-century string quartet music. Other quartets like the Vitamin String Quartet focus on short-form popular music, and play in a greater variety of styles and genres.
Experience the magic for yourself!
If you are thinking of hiring a live string quartet to play for your next event, feel free to view our pricing or click here to get started!
.png)
.png)
