Chiara String Quartet Tickets

A disappointing concert with reputedly good performers, the program began with a premier performance of a new work for piano quintet by Friedmann, a piece combining rounded edge modernism with lush late romanticism. Bits of it were befuddling, some was quite pleasant, and the last movement with prepared piano was simply annoying. The second work, the Fine quartet is a gloomy and turgid piece. After the intermission the quartet played a serviceable rendition of the Mozart Dissonance Quartet, and "glammed" it up by playing from memory. It demonstrated the group is not among the best string quartets currently playing, even if the players do have good memories for complex works.

premiere=jefferson friedman was excellent, modern and accessible. 2nd piece=irving fine's string quartet was wonderful,conservative yet approaching dissonance. after intermission mozart late string quartet played from memory,was excellent.

I learned that Irving Fine must not fit within my enjoyed musical styles. I found myself feeling like I was waiting for more, although the musicians were talented and performed well. I was most excited about hearing the Library's Stradivari and other aged instruments played, and was not disappointed in the richness of sound. I would have preferred another style, but did like having the opportunity to be exposed to clear, well-performed live chamber music.