Musical Romanticism, explored by Pieter de Oude.
Tchaikowski’s String Quartet No. 2 in F major and Grieg’s Violin Sonata No. 2 in G major
We start this Radio Romantica with a grand composition of Piotr Iljitsj Tchaikowski, inspired by a Russian soul. His second string quartet from 1874 was one of the composer’s favourites. He wrote the work in one fluent move, and he wrote it with all of his heart and soul. The public did not share his enthusiasm, maybe because of the dissonant start or the scherzo’s unusual rhythm. The premiere was in the conservatoire of Moscow. And that is precisely the spot where the members of the Rusquartet, who will play this piece for you, were educated. The quartet has built up an impressive record since its foundation in 2001. Besides their beautiful usual repertoire, they are actively promoting contemporary music. And the Rusquartat was quartet-in-residence at the Orlando Festival in 2016. In the second part of this episode of Radio Romantica, we will hear the second Violin Sonata of Edvard Grieg, This comprehensive sonata, in which Grieg introduces Norwegian folk music in a virtuoso way, is performed for you by the Latvian sisters Baida and Lauma Skride.
Playlist:
- Piotr Iljitsj Tchaikowski, String Quartet No. 2 in F major, op.22
Rusquartet / KTC 1598 - Edvard Grieg, Violin Sonata No. 2 in G major, op.13
Baiba Skride, violin / Lauma Skride, piano / C 913 161 A
Produced by:
