Beethoven’s Serioso Quartet

Join us for our first concert of the CSO’s Chamber Music series at the Library Society. Enjoy engaging repertoire that will feature both classical favorites and modern innovations in an intimate setting. Bohuslav Martinů’s “Three Madrigals for Violin and Viola” will kick off the evening, showcasing a vivid dialogue between the violin and viola with energetic and rhythmic interplay. Following, the audience will enjoy Jean Françaix’s “Divertissement for Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon,” a piece renowned for its light-hearted and witty character, offering a delightful contrast through its use of woodwind timbres. Ludwig van Beethoven’s intense “String Quartet in F minor, Op. 95,” often called the “Serioso,” will provide a dramatic counterpoint with its profound depth and robust textures. The night will conclude with a world premiere by Charleston native, Thomas Cabaniss. The String Quartet by Cabaniss titled “Denmark Vessey,” promises to be a compelling addition to the chamber music repertoire, reflecting on historical themes through a contemporary lens.

This concert is set to be a memorable journey through the evolution of chamber music, from the classical era to the present day.

ARTISTS

Yuriy Bekker, Micah Gangwer, and Asako Kremer, Violins
Jan-Marie Joyce and Sadie Nichols, Violas
Benjamin Menkinulov, Cello
Kelly Mozeik, Oboe
Charles Messersmith, Clarinet
Jordan Brokken, Bassoon

PROGRAM

Bohuslav Martinů (1890-1959)
Three Madrigals for Violin and Viola

1. Poco allegro
2. Poco andante
3. Allegro

Jean Françaix (1912-1997)
Divertissement for Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon

1. Prelude – Moderato
2. Allegretto assai
3. Elegie
4. Scherzo

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
String Quartet in F minor, Op. 95 (“Serioso”)

1. Allegro con brio
2. Allegretto ma non troppo
3. Allegro assai vivace ma serioso
4. Larghetto espressivo – Allegretto agitato — Allegro

Thomas Cabaniss (1962–present)
String Quartet No. 6, “Denmark Vessey” (World Premiere)

1. With a groove and a hint of swing -“Nobody knows who I am, who I am, ‘Til the judgement morning”
2. Slowly – “O moonlight, o starlight, I’m walking through the starlight, Lay this body down”
3. With energy – “Look up the road, you see Father Moses, Join the Angel Band”
4. Slow – “Die silent, as you shall see me do” & “Who’s going to lay this body? Member, O shout glory!”