Meet the musicians 2: From my life
Smetana’s richly varied first string quartet is a magnificent achievement that takes on extra resonance when its autobiographical element is understood. There are representations of the hopes of a young man, the youthful joy of dancing, and wistful recollections of first love. But any sense of contentment is shattered by a single piercing high note that symbolises the disastrous onset of deafness. Truly, a life vividly encapsulated in a single piece of music.
Programme
- Grieg: Andante con moto for violin, cello and piano
- Smetena: String Quartet No. 1 in E minor - From my life