Shostakovich String Quartets 6, 4, 5
The Brodsky Quartet play the Complete Shostakovich Quartets
Book NowA rare and exhilarating opportunity to hear all of Shostakovich’s incredible string quartets in one weekend. Or pace yourself and pick one or two that take your fancy. Tickets are available per concert, per day or for the weekend.
Such a lot had happened to Shostakovich prior to the Sixth Quartet, of 1956: the deaths of both Stalin and Prokofiev, of his wife, Nina, and of his loving mother, before he himself fell dangerously ill. Amazingly, out of all this comes the most pastoral and melodic of all his quartets.
The premiere of the Fourth Quartet, written in 1949, was delayed until after Stalin’s death, in 1953. Shostakovich’s fear is undoubtedly related to the abundant use of Jewish folk music. The work has everything: grand sweeping gestures, intimacy, wit, beauty, sadness.
The Fifth Quartet (1523) opens in a very nonchalant manner. The movement then suddenly explodes into life with an intoxicating energy, one lovely theme following another. Excitement comes and goes until we reach a magnificent climax.
Start time
3.30pm
The Brodsky Quartet
Now in their sixth decade as an ensemble, the Brodsky Quartet are among the most beloved interpreters of Shostakovich, a creative relationship that goes back to 1972, the year they formed.
They invite you to join them in celebrating the most magical and intimate journey in all music. Come and revel in the personal diaries of one of the world’s greatest ever musicians. Initially inspired by life – the birth of his son – and finishing with our collective demise, these masterpieces address family, friends, enemies and lovers; with every conceivable emotion explored. We promise you a rollercoaster. Take the ride!
The Complete String Quartets
View all
Howard Assembly Room
A year-round festival of music, performance and ideas, in the heart of Leeds.
Under 30s membership
Are you 16-29 years old or a full-time student? Get discounted tickets to brilliant shows at the Howard Assembly Room.
Kino
Open from Tuesday to Saturday, Kino is our restaurant and bar located below the Howard Assembly Room, presenting the best independent food, beers and wines.
