Dante Quartet, Influence Church, Richmond

WHAT a cracking set of concerts there has been so far this season. The Richmondshire Subscription Concerts are in their 67th season and really do go from strength to strength.

The Dante Quartet was founded in 1995 and immediately became known for not being afraid to approach any composer with gusto, imagination and virtuosity.

The evening started with Joseph Haydn, Quartet in Eb major Op.64, Hob. 111:63.

Originally written for violinist Johann Tost, the quartets were composed during a particularly busy and turbulent time in Haydn’s life. The musicians began with a flourish which continued throughout, were confident, bold and bright. Thoroughly enjoyable. The piece enabled the musicians to flex their musical muscles, relax and prepare for the next piece, Bartok's Quartet no.4 in C Major Sz93.

What an absolute delight to see Bartok on a programme. He had a mission in life to put authentic Hungarian music on the map. It was almost a driving force within him. This piece has everything within it, elements taken from lots of genres, which make it both challenging and exciting. The musicians rose to the challenge, and performed their task to perfection. Their enthusiasm and love of the work was infectious.

After the interval they performed the majestic Beethoven’s Quartet in Eb major op 127, dedicated to the Russian Prince Nicholas Galitzin. It was a piece in places bursting with energy and intensity which suited the Dante Quartet perfectly. Complex in places, and quite beautiful, this again was one of the highlights of the season.

A dark and rainy night in Richmond suddenly seemed a lot brighter. The next concert is on March 21 featuring Cellophony together with the fantastic voice of Jennifer Witton.

Amanda Adams