Presents
George Onslow
String Quartet No.2 in a minor, Op.4 No.2-New Edition
“Onslow composed his first three string quartets, in the summer of 1807, before he began his formal study of composition with Anton Reicha, which makes them a rather extraordinary achievement when one hears them. The opening movement to the second quartet, Op.4 No.2 in D Major is in cut time and marked Allegro vivace. The main theme is based on the interesting use of a grace note rhythm. The movement, full of forward motion and excitement could clearly serve as a finale. In the following Adagio sostenuto, the cello is given a short introductory solo before a lovely duet between it and the first violin is heard. Of great beauty, the writing is in cantilena style with chromatic episodes of the sort one does not encounter until late Spohr. The short middle section provides a great contrast and is full of drama and operatic passion. Minuet is not at all what comes to mind upon hearing the opening to this Menuetto Allegro. Powerful, driving triplets together with upward soaring and downward plunging chromatic runs give the main theme quite an original sound and a forward motion which is never relaxed. Although the trio’s theme, which is begun by the cello, is somewhat lighter in feel, it nonetheless continues this propulsion and gives a Mendelssohnian flavor to the movement. It is absolutely first rate in conception and effect. The finale, Allegretto con moto in 6/8 opens with a pastoral, almost restful subject in stark contrast to the preceding movement. The development finds long running passages given to the first violin and then the cello.”—
"---The Chamber Music Journal
Perhaps no composer more than George Onslow (1784-1853) illustrates the fickleness of fame. Onslow was born and lived his entire life in France, the son of an English father and French mother. His 36 string quartets and 34 string quintets were a constant feature of concert programs throughout the 19th century, particularly in Germany, Austria and England. where he was regularly placed in the front rank of composers by such experts as Mendelssohn and Schumann. His work was admired by both Beethoven and Schubert, the latter modeling his own 2 cello quintet (D.956) on those of Onslow and not, as is so often claimed, on those of Boccherini.
This is an important quartet both historically and on its merits. It should appeal to both professionals and amateurs alike. We are pleased to present an all new edition based on the original Pleyel edition.
Parts: $29.95
Score & Parts: $36.95
