Bartók’s set of six quartets remain one of the 20th century’s indelible masterworks, and form the backbone of the composer’s output. In these visceral, high-voltage yet mysterious pieces Bartók broke new ground, compressing, expanding and transforming his musical ideas to build grand, arch-like structures.

In this three-part series, the Carducci Quartet interleave two quartets with a jewel-like miniature by Bartók’s living compatriot, György Kurtág.

This concert features two of Bartok’s great ‘arch’ form quartets, characterised by symmetries, visceral dance rhythms, and rustling night music. Linking these is Kurtág’s Officium breve, one of his most-performed works, a string of 15 opalescent gems; here is music that breathes quietly, penetrating a vast depth of space.

Wed 19 Sep – Macro/Micro I
Wed 7 Nov – Macro/Micro III