The string quartet was one of Dvorák’s preferred forms of expression: an opportunity for him to work on subtle alchemies between very varied musical influences, between the Old and the New World, between grim reality and dreams. If he described his opus 96 in F major as ?American?, it was because of some of his choices of writing, notably involving rhythm, strived to combine black music and Czech music. As well as their compatriot Dvorák, the musicians of the Talich Quartet honour the Prague composer Kalivoda, who enjoyed huge popularity in the mid-19th century, and Erwin Schulhoff, an eclectic musician influenced by the emerging trends of the early 20th century such as Expressionism, Dadaism and jazz. In their full and polished tones, articulate and inventive constructions, and rhythmic tension and aplomb, these breathtaking contrasts are the trademarks of an ensemble which makes every concert a vibrant sensory experience.

With
Jan Talich : Violin
Petr Macecek : Violin
Vladimir Bukac : Viola
Petr Prause : Cello