Smetana and Brahms Quartets

Pro Musica Quartet

Plays 

Smetana and Brahms

Friday, May 17th, 6pm

Leo Phillips Violin

Jirajet Jetsadachet Violin

Tasana Nagavajara Viola

Hut Wongwechwiwat Cello

Smetana, String Qaurtet no. 1 in E minor, "From my Life". 

Bedrich Smetana was one of the great Czech composers of the mid 19th century. His first quartet is a passionate and autobiographical work, full of enchanting Bohemian melodies and dance rhythms. It was written in 1876, when the syphilitic Smetana was stone deaf. The iconic high pitched E at the end of the final movement is a poignant metaphor for the ringing in Smetana's ears which preceded his deafness. Lots of solos for viola in this work will keep Tasana on his toes and lots of jolly rhythms will keep your toes tapping. 

Brahms String Quartet no. 2 in A minor, op. 52 no. 2

This is the second of Brahms's three quartets. It written in 1873 when Brahms was 40. This is a meaty work. There is a strong Beethoven influence, but the work has clear Brahmsian qualities, such as the finale, which has a powerful Hungarian folk dance 'casardas' theme, reminiscent of the violin concerto. 

Reservations: 1,000 baht per person. Email asiachart@hotmail.com. All proceeds to the musicians.

Tickets: No tickets will be issued for concerts. Admission to the music room on the day of the concert will be in accordance with the sequence of receipt of payment (ie, who pays first goes in first and can select their desired seat).

Etiquette: Photos may be taken during the encore only. During the main performance please put your phone in silent mode and put it away.

Children: Children aged eight years and older may attend the concert depending on the suitability of the program. 

Cancellations and credits: Credit will be allowed for future concerts in the event of illness. Please don't come if you're feeling sick or recovering but still coughing. 

Directions to Eelswamp: search for 'Eelswamp' on google maps. Directions can be found at the bottom of this page: http://eelswamp.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-music-room-at-eelswamp.html

Bolt Taxi service to Eelswamp: Just enter "Eelswamp" in the destination box.