The string quartet repertoire is dominated by the impressive masterpieces of Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Bartók, and Shostakovich, so it would seem that there's little room for light music among these heavyweights. However, the members of string quartets are like other musicians in needing appealing short pieces to round out their programs, and even though there aren't many popular bon-bons for string quartet ready to hand, there are now enough to be gathered on one delightful CD. The Brodsky Quartet has delved into ...
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The string quartet repertoire is dominated by the impressive masterpieces of Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Bartók, and Shostakovich, so it would seem that there's little room for light music among these heavyweights. However, the members of string quartets are like other musicians in needing appealing short pieces to round out their programs, and even though there aren't many popular bon-bons for string quartet ready to hand, there are now enough to be gathered on one delightful CD. The Brodsky Quartet has delved into the standards and recorded them on numerous occasions, so it is with an air of fun and relaxation that they offer Petits-Four: Favourite Encores on Chandos. Many of the pieces are familiar in different instrumentation -- the string quartet arrangements are by Brodsky alumnus Andrew Haveron, and active members Paul Cassidy, Ian Belton, and Jacqueline Thomas -- so listeners may be pleasantly surprised to hear these clever versions, which are true to the originals but perfectly suited...
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