Endellion String Quartet

Presented by Dorking Concertgoers Society

Dorking Halls

Reviewed by Simon Ames

At the second of their three appearances at Dorking, this award-winning quartet began with Beethoven's String Quartet in D major, No.3 in Opus 18. The four movements reflect some recognisable styles of Haydn and Mozart, the delicate second movement (Andante con moto) carrying sequences of stronger individuality, as does the strident vigour of the concluding Presto. A perfect beginning.

Bartok followed Beethoven, Endellion selecting his Quartet No.5, the one that resonates so deeply with the composer's fondness for folk music from his native Hungary. The opening Allegro is fiery, the more delicate Adagio molto takes over to provide a striking comparison. The forceful Allegro Vivace as the finale is hard-driven and cathartic.

For the second half, the quartet turned to the music of Felix Mendelssohn with a magical performance of his String Quartet No.2 in A minor from Opus 13. This was written in 1827 when the composer was only 18. The four movements combine harmonic richness with subdued melancholia, the latter possibly due to the death of Ludwig van Beethoven earlier in that year. After a slow opening of quiet dignity, a rapid transformation comes in the classically elegant Intermezzo, rounding out with a dramatic finale (Presto) that reprises on earlier sounds before ending with strains of the opening Adagio.

The relatively small but highly attentive and appreciative audience showed extended appreciation for a quality performance. The Endellion Quartet exhibit infectious enthusiasm for all the music they play. All four are individual masters of their art. Together, the music they perform is sublime.