The Cape Cod Chamber Orchestra returns to Martha's Vineyard for its third year with a Fall program, featuring a quartet: (clockwise from top left) Maureen Heflinger (viola), Tim Paek (cello), Emma Powell (violin), Jesse MacDonald (violin). Beethoven's "Harp Quartet" Ludwig van Beethoven's Harp Quartet in E-flat major, Op. 74, is a remarkable piece of chamber music that showcases the composer's innovative genius. Composed in 1809, during his middle period, this quartet is also known as the "Harp Quartet" due to its distinctive plucked strings in the first movement. Beethoven's experimentation with different timbres and techniques in this work makes it a standout in his chamber music repertoire. The quartet consists of four movements: the spirited Poco adagio - Allegro, the lyrical Adagio ma non troppo, the playful Presto, and the jubilant Allegretto con variazioni. The opening movement is where the harp-like plucked strings come into play, providing a delicate contrast to the flowing melodies of the violin, viola, and cello. Beethoven's use of contrasting dynamics and intricate thematic development creates a sense of drama and tension throughout the piece. In the second movement, Beethoven displays his lyrical prowess, crafting a beautiful and introspective Adagio that allows each instrument to shine. The third movement, Presto, is a playful scherzo that adds a touch of whimsy to the quartet. Finally, the concluding Allegretto con variazioni features a set of variations on a charming theme, showcasing Beethoven's ability to transform simple motifs into complex and engaging musical narratives. |
The MV Chamber Music Society presents: The Cape Cod Chamber Quartet Under the direction of Matt Scinto Location: First Congregational Church of West Tisbury Friday, October 27, 2023 4:00 p.m. Doors open at 3:30. Tickets: Advance Purchase online: $25.00 After 12 noon Oct 27 or at the door: $30.00 Tickets will be sold on this site at the advance purchase price of $25 until 12 noon Friday, October 27. Thereafter $30 at the door. Shelley Washington's "Middleground" Shelley Washington's Middleground is a celebration of Washington’s childhood in Missouri and Kansas. It’s a road movie in musical form, taking us in a car alongside her family and friends. Washington’s program notes express the many-layered recollections that she poured into Middleground: "MIDDLEGROUND: the space grounded, the between, the center. The Heartland. The prairie, the grasslands, Konza, Flint Hills, Manhattan, Emporia, Salina. Where we gathered. Home of the heart, heart of the home. The years spent in cars, daydreaming, scooping handfuls of wheat, racing out into amber fields, cycling together, water wheel ice cream, fireworks and apples. The stories shared, books read sprawled in the yard, family prayers over anything, late evening walks, quiet nights. Open arms, open hearts, humble and extraordinary." |
CELEBRATE MUSIC
The Martha's Vineyard Chamber Music Society produces chamber music concerts and promotes an appreciation of classical and contemporary music on the island of Martha's Vineyard. The Summer Evening Concerts and our Education Programs including Instrument Loans, Lesson Scholarships, Artist in Residence, and Project Cello, all depend on generous donors and grant funders. Your donation is greatly appreciated and will help us fulfill our mission. |