MUSIC REVIEW: The Borodin String Quartet, St George's Hall, Liverpool

Mar 13 2008 by Glyn Mon Hughes, Liverpool Daily Post

EXPERIENCE definitely counts.

It certainly shows in every performance of the Borodin String Quartet. Just as chamber ensembles come and go, this quartet has certainly stood the test of time.

They’ve been playing since the end of World War II and, as they proudly say, have a particular affinity with the music of Shostakovich, a composer well known to the players – he died in 1975 – as well as many others. They were originally known as the Moscow Philharmonic Quartet but adopted their present name in 1955.

They also have a particular affinity for the chamber music of Beethoven and their Liverpool recital included works by both their major influences as well as some fresh and lively Haydn and the A minor Quartet of Miaskovsky.

Perhaps most significant in this performance was the brooding, introspective 13th Quartet of Shostakovich, a work in a single movement.

Its atonality makes it markedly different from the many other similar works produced by the composer. The striking viola line, as well as the almost ethereal harmonics demanded of the violins, make this work so memorable, as well, of course, as the striking playing of this gifted ensemble.

Beethoven’s C minor Quartet, Op 18 No 4 is a comparatively early work but places considerable demands on the players, perhaps particularly so in the slow movement which is overlaid with a feeling almost of frivolity.

The 13th String Quartet of Miaskovsky is a was written in 1950 and is, very much, the work of a Soviet artist. It is also his last string quartet. A perfectly approachable piece, but it’s hard to get excited by the works of this composer.

Thank goodness, then, for the wit and spark of Haydn’s "Lark" Quartet – a sparkling, fun-filled opener from performers whose next visit must, surely, be keenly anticipated.