Limitless Romanticism: from Moscow to Norway
In this episode of Radio Romantica we begin with a large-scale composition inspired by the Russian soul, by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. His Second String Quartet from 1874 was one of the composer’s own favourites. He wrote the work in one continuous flow, pouring his heart and soul into it.
The audience was less enthusiastic, perhaps because of the dissonant opening or the unusual rhythm of the scherzo. The premiere took place at the Moscow Conservatory, which is precisely where the musicians of the Rus Quartet, who will perform the work for you today, were trained. Since its founding in 2001, the quartet has built an impressive career. Alongside the beautiful standard repertoire for their ensemble, they are actively engaged in promoting contemporary music.
The second part of Radio Romantica is devoted to the Second Violin Sonata by Edvard Grieg. This wide-ranging sonata, in which Grieg virtuosoly introduces elements of Norwegian folk music, is performed for you by the Latvian sisters Baiba and Lauma Skride.
Playlist
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Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky – String Quartet No. 2 in F major, Op. 22
Rus Quartet -
Edvard Grieg – Violin Sonata No. 2 in G major, Op. 13
Baiba Skride, violin / Lauma Skride, piano
