New Orford String Quartet a hit in Langley, BC!

It was a true pleasure to attend the New Orford String Quartet's recital in Langley this evening at the Rose Gellert Hall.  They played an amazing concert of Beethoven, R. Murray Schafer, and Johannes Brahms.  The quartet, again, proved themselves to be one of North America's most formidable chamber music groups. 

This first selection on the program was Ludwig Van Beethoven's last early quartet, opus 18, no. 6.  The musicians played with fantastic accuracy and their sense of ensemble was fabulous.  The fourth movement was particularly magnificent as this is where the audience could really observe how four people can create a conversation through music.  It was also during this final movement of the Beethoven selection that the quartet particularly illustrated their ability to convey the nuances of dynamics and colour in this composer's work.   Throughout all four movements, the audience was led on a journey through the different moods that Beethoven presents in this piece, all the while showing a fine degree of control.

It was truly a unique and wonderful experience to hear R. Murray Schafer's String Quartet no. 1 played by the New Orford String Quartet.  The playing was energetic throughout the piece.  The quartet created a sense of excitement and even mystery during the performance of this work.  There was intensity and enthusiasm which added to this performance.  Brian Manker, the quartet's cellist, gave an excellent explanation of the composition before they performed it in order to prepare the audience for what they could expect to hear.  I was very impressed to see that the quartet had chosen to include a contemporary, Canadian work on their program.

After the intermission, the quartet played ...wait for it, Johannes Brahms! Ah yes, glorious Brahms.  They performed String Quartet opus 51, no. 2 in a minor.  First of all, I will admit my bias. Anytime someone puts Brahms on their program, I'm already happy. The New Orford did NOT disappoint!  The first movement was rich in tone and the sense of ensemble was again, superb.  

The second movement was heartfelt and a moving interpretation of this gorgeous music. For me, the highlight of the Brahms performance was the third movement.  The quartet's unison was incredible.  Moreover, the sensitivity that they demonstrated during this section was impressive.  In this third movement, Brahms writes more than just a simple minuet.  The mood calls on the performer to play with great emotional depth.  The New Orford Quartet did just that.

The quartet's performance of the fourth movement of Brahms' opus 51, no. 2 quartet had everything one could look for in a great finale.  I really enjoyed the tempo that they chose because it gave a chance for the musicians to showcase their fabulous understanding of Brahms' phrasing.  

This was a truly thrilling evening of chamber music.  Canada is very fortunate indeed to have the New Orford String Quartet.   They are a wonderful group of musicians who share their hearts and love of music warmly with each audience. Bravo!