Written early in his life, Tchaikovsky’s three string quartets are a staple of the string repertoire, however it is his first that has garnered immense popularity. Completed in 1871 his String Quartet No. 1 in D major received its premiere in Moscow, and provided the much needed boost to Tchaikovsky’s newly developing career. It was the eloquent second movement, however, which proved to be the jewel in the crown.
This second movement was the Andante Cantabile. One of Tchaikovsky’s best-known works, it developed over time not only as a work for string quartet, but for string ensemble and probably its most popular form of all, for solo cello and string orchestra – as arranged by the composer himself in 1888.
Opening with a gently melancholic Russian folk tune, which Tchaikovsky had heard sung by a peasant several years earlier whilst visiting his sister in the Ukraine, he introduces his own wistful, ethereal and graceful theme with pizzicato accompaniment which creates a wonderful and radiant contrast.
Watch here as our principal cellist Alice Neary, alongside Â鶹ԼÅÄ NOW and conductor Mike Seal, performs this exquisite work at our home, Â鶹ԼÅÄ Hoddinott Hall.
Programme note © Amy Campbell