COSSINGTON Concerts concluded the memorable 2009 programme with a marvellous performance by a talented young quartet at St Michael’s Church, Bawdrip.
The Atrium Quartet graduated from the St Petersburg Conservatoire in 2003 and quickly established itself as a major force, performing across the world, winning prestigious international competitions and creating highly acclaimed recordings.
In the first half at Bawdrip, the quartet treated us to fascinating Russian music. Sergei Prokofiev’s String Quartet No2 in F Major, on Kabardinian themes, Op92 enchanted us with its intriguing mix of folk songs and dances from the northern Caucasus. It was followed by Dmitri Shostakovich’s String Quartet No9 in E flat major, Op117, a challenging work of five movements, played as one continuous piece. The insistent, mournful theme of the first adagio, the plucked strings and air of mystery in the second adagio and the emotionally draining, complex closing allegro were particularly memorable. This was a superb performance, highly demanding of musicians and audience alike, ultimately fully rewarding for both.
After the interval, the Atrium delighted us with one of Franz Schubert’s most profound compositions, his String Quartet No14 in D minor, D810. Death and the Maiden is deeply emotional, reflecting Schubert’s declining health and this beautiful, haunting music was played with exquisite sensitivity throughout. What a privilege it was to hear such talented performers in Bawdrip.
Ian Beech
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