Presents
Johannes Bernardus van Bree
String Quartet No. 1 in a minor
Johannes Bernardus van Bree (1801-57) was trained as a violinist and composer. He became conductor of Amsterdam’s leading music ensemble and composed in nearly every genre. In the 1830’s, he founded the renowned Amsterdam String Quartet and served as its 1st violinist for over 20 years. Most sources indicate that he composed three string quartets.
String Quartet No.1 in a minor dates from 1833. In four movements, the opening Allegro moderato begins with a slow, somewhat solemn introduction which leads to a faster, stormy episode. The cello then presents a highly lyrical section after which the first violin is given a chance to shine. The second movement, Adagio ma non troppo, at first has a chorale-like quality, but then the cello introduces a theme which rachets up the tempo. Next comes an energetic, hard-driving Menuetto, vivace with a slower, nicely contrasting trio. The finale, Vivace, opens like a top-tapping rondo which eventually gives way to a finely executed fugal segment after which the music races headlong toward and exciting conclusion.
We have reprinted the one and only edition, which though not like a modern edition, is very readable. We think you will enjoy playing this fine work.
Parts: $24.95
