Ehnes Quartet – The Beethoven Cycle, IV
UCLA Herb Alpert School of MusicSchoenberg HallCharles E. Young Drive East, Los Angeles 90095
The Ehnes Quartet's fourth Beethoven Cycle concert continues its six-concert chronological traversal of Beethoven's complete string quartets. This program moves from the pizzicato arpeggios and variation writing of the E-flat major “Harp” Quartet, Op. 74, through the compressed drama of the F minor “Serioso,” Op. 95, to the late E-flat major Quartet, Op. 127, with its Maestoso opening, variations, scherzo and finale. The cycle coincides with the 200th anniversary year of Beethoven's death.
Led by Canadian violinist James Ehnes, the quartet brings together Ehnes and Amy Schwartz Moretti on violins, Che-Yen Chen on viola and Edward Arron on cello. Formed in 2010 after its members had played together in various combinations for more than two decades, the ensemble holds an annual residency at the Seattle Chamber Music Society. The Strad wrote that its players “meshed together like the old friends they are,” with themes passing seamlessly and “the ebb and flow managed beautifully.”
The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music offers a refined concert experience in its 135-seat Lani Hall Theater, designed with advanced acoustic treatments that ensure clear sound from every seat. The venue features a raised stage with adjustable acoustic panels, creating an environment where both performers and audience members can engage deeply with the music. Events here range from student recitals to performances by renowned artists, often free and open to the public, with seating on a first-come, first-served basis. The setting encourages attentive listening rather than casual socializing, making it ideal for those who appreciate the nuances of live music. Located within UCLA's Westwood campus, the school also hosts a variety of musical series and festivals that celebrate global traditions and contemporary works, promising an enriching evening of artistry and culture.