Presents
Wilhelm Volckmar
String Quartet No.3 in a minor, Op.58 No.3
Wilhelm Volckmar (1812-1887) was born in the German town of Hersfeld. He received much of his musical training from his father, Adam Volckmar, who was a prominent organist. Wilhelm went on to be one of the great organ virtuosi of the 19th century and spent his life both teaching and touring. He also authored several books on music theory that were well received. Most of his compositions are for the organ, however, he did write three string quartets, his Op.58, which date from 1861.
His String Quartet in a minor, Op.58 No.3 opens with a dramatic Moderato which has tinges of the Baroque. The second movement is a light hearted Allegretto which is actually a minuet. The trio is much faster and quite gripping. Third is a lovely kind of Song Without Words sung for the most part by the first violin to a discrete accompaniment in the other voices. The work closes with an exciting and compelling Allegro molto.
This is an excellent choice for an amateur quartet looking for a concert or competition work. It is well-written with good parts for all and presents no technical difficulties. That said, the quartet is also strong enough to be performed in concert by professionals. Out of print for a very long, we are pleased to make it available again.
Parts $24.95
