[CLASSICAL MUSIC] On Two Bartok Quartets 🎻

Bartók's (1881-1945) six quartets are usually recognized as equivalent in stature in the 20th century to Beethoven's sixteen quartets. I began to worship these quartets in my early 20s, especially the last three. I waver in the choice between the fourth and the sixth quartet, but the choice has to fall on the fourth as my favorite. 

Modern string music is not always easy listening, which may be said about the first and last movement in the fourth quartet (1928). But please don't give up on it if it's the first time you listen to it. The three middle movements are not very difficult if one allow oneself to be guided by the rhythmic intensity. The merry dance of the pizzicato movement is a pure joy to listen to. The secular mysticism in the night music of the quiet middle movement is utterly suggestive and captivating.

Béla Bartók - String Quartet No. 4 - Takács Quartet

The sixth quartet (1941) is where Bartók in my ears most clearly emulates Beethoven. Just listen to the plaintive but infinitely beautiful melody that opens the first movement, and compare it with the beginning of Beethoven's 14th string quartet, Op. 131. That melody will return in the last movement, as if it would be sketched with the darkest charcoal. All movements are marked Mesto (sad), which doesn't prevent the occurrence of a burletta, a little scherzo, a dark-tinted little joke, which in accordance with the spirit of the work has to be performed with an occasional grimace. Despite the Mesto mood the sixth quartet is probably the most accessible of Bartók's quartets with its many moments of dissonant and bitter-sweet beauty.

Béla Bartók - String Quartet No. 6 - Takács Quartet

Ludwig van Beethoven: String Quartet No.14 in C sharp minor, Op.131 - Belcea Quartet

 @SteemSwede