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TRYON–Tryon Concert Association will present the Bennewitz String Quartet in concert at the Tryon Fine Arts Center on Tuesday, March 21, at 7:30 p.m.

The Bennewitz String Quartet is a highly-acclaimed ensemble of young Czech musicians. Formed in 1998 by students at the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague, the quartet is named for Antonín Bennewitz, the violinist who is credited with the establishment of the Czech school of violin. The ensemble has been lauded for its “drama, expression, and utmost sensitivity” (Strad) as well as for its broad repertoire and innovative programming.

The Bennewitz has won numerous awards, including the Osaka International Music Competition and the Prémio Paolo Borcianini. The ensemble has given performances at Wigmore Hall in London, Musikverien Wien, Konzerthaus Berlin, Théâtre des Champs Elysées in Paris, the Frick Collection in New York, and numerous other concert halls in Europe. They have recently recorded Leoš Janáček’s string quartets, one of which is on the program here in Tryon.

Mozart’s String Quartet No. 4 in C Major, K. 157, heads the program. This early work is one of the composer’s most tender and graceful. Written when Mozart was in his teens, it reflects the range of emotion and musical accomplishment for which he would become so famous. It is a fresh and engaging example of Mozart’s youthful efforts.

Janáček’s String Quartet No. 2, “Intimate Letters,” is a recollection of his unrequited love for a much younger married woman. The title refers to the approximately 700 letters the composer wrote to Kamila, his young muse. The music is emotionally volatile, ranging from intense devotion to ultimate despair. Favored by audiences, the work is complex and musically innovative.

Dvořák’s String Quartet No. 13, Op. 106, concludes the program. This enchanting and beautiful work is probably the finest chamber music work Dvořák wrote. Its adagio is considered the most beautiful movement for string quartet, and audiences around the world have treasured this work. The piece represents a “new path” for the composer, a turning away from traditional Bohemian folk music and emphasis on a more sophisticated approach.

For information about this and other Tryon Concert Association concerts, please visit our website, tryonconcerts.org.

 

Submitted by Anne de Sutter