Mozart’s Quartet K. 464: Part IV
In the finale of Mozart’s Quartet K. 464, we encounter one of the most remarkable and thrilling finales in his oeuvre. The movement is built around two motifs introduced at the start, which Mozart uses to showcase his contrapuntal skills once again. These seemingly simple motifs become the foundation for a complex contrapuntal display. The development introduces additional motifs, further enriching the texture before presenting a calming chorale theme. The recapitulation incorporates even more motifs, culminating in a coda where Mozart’s contrapuntal mastery shines one last time, before the movement ends in a delicate whisper.
Mozart’s Quartet K. 464: Part III
In the third movement of Mozart’s Quartet K. 464, we are treated to an exquisite theme and variations. Starting with a refined theme, Mozart explores increasingly free variations, evolving from the theme's simplicity into complex counterpoint and music of surprising emotional depth. This movement highlights Mozart’s exceptional craftsmanship and innovation, making it the heart of the entire quartet.
Mozart’s Quartet K. 464: Part II
In the second movement of Mozart’s Quartet K. 464, Mozart opts for a charming minuet instead of the usual slow movement. Uncharacteristically complex for the form, this minuet features two simple motifs that Mozart develops through intricate counterpoint. The minuet combines motifs in a host of ways, creating a rich texture that contrasts with the typical simplicity of the form. The genius of this movement lies in Mozart’s ability to write complex, rich music that sounds clear and effortlessly elegant.
Mozart’s Quartet K. 464: Part I
Discover the elegance of the first movement of Mozart’s K. 464. It showcases Mozart’s mastery of form, clarity of musical thought, and boundless inventiveness in counterpoint.
Mozart’s Quartet K. 464: Introduction
Explore how inspiration shaped Mozart’s String Quartet K. 464, a masterpiece born from his admiration for Joseph Haydn. In this blog, we delve into the story of how Haydn’s groundbreaking Op. 33 Quartets spurred Mozart to create his own set of six quartets, culminating in the elegant and masterful K. 464. This work not only honours Mozart’s friendship with Haydn but also inspired Beethoven, leaving a lasting legacy in the chamber music literature.
Borodin String Quartet No. 2—Part 1
Borodin’s String Quartet No. 2 begins with an Allegro moderato where the cello introduces a lyrical First Theme, quickly taken up by the first violin. This dialogue between instruments imbues the music with a personal touch, reflecting Borodin’s affection for his wife. The exposition progresses through distinct themes, including a darker secondary theme and a chromatic closing theme. The development explores these themes in varied keys, leading into a recapitulation that features a surprising colour change to E-flat major and a joyful climax. The movement concludes with a tranquil coda. The second movement, a Scherzo, sparkles with Mendelssohnian influence and features playful themes and a contrasting Trio section.
Vif et agité
After the exquisitely beautiful slow movement, Ravel thrusts us into a final movement marked vif et agité (lively and agitated). Much of the agitation comes from the unstable 5/8 meter played at a brisk tempo. But there are always lyrical moments where Ravel plays with themes from the first movement that gives a feeling of cohesion to the quartet.
Très lent
The slow movement of Ravel’s String Quartet is an exquisite nocturne that alternates between rhapsodic episodes and a longing melody. Thematic material from previous movements reappear in dream-like guises and the music builds to a passionate climax that sweeps us away. All of this makes for the most beautiful movement of this quartet.
Très Rythmé
Learn about the second movement of Ravel’s String Quartet. It’s a lively movement full of metrical complexity, beautiful melodies and surprising textures.
