Schubert’s String Quartet in D minor D810, called ‘Death and the Maiden’ because it contains a set of variations on his own song of the same title, has always been deservedly popular since it was composed in a burst of concentrated energy in 1824.  In this programme it is contrasted with one of Mendelssohn’s greatest quartets, op. 44, no. 1 in D major (1838), and rarities by Luigi Cherubini and Louis Spohr.

The Eroica Quartet brings new perspectives to familiar repertoire.  Known for its radical interpretations of some of the best-known music of the 19^th century, the Quartet passionately believes that greater freedom of expression can be found in the performance styles of the past.  With their on-going research into contemporary performance styles they are maturing into a unique and passionate force.  Their recordings on Harmonia Mundi USA have received huge critical acclaim.  ‘The Eroica Quartet gives performances of exhilarating freshness and verve. The players find just the right balance between expressive flexibility and forward drive, while the sparer-toned period strings make for ideal clarity in Mendelssohn’s busy contrapuntal textures.’ The Daily Telegraph