The instruments, history and iconic works explained to classical music newbies

“The string quartet is the essence of music, with its perfect balance and intimate conversation among the instruments.” – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

If you’re relatively new to classical music, you’ll quickly encounter the string quartet. Maybe your interest is spiked by the beautiful string quartet music in the Bridgerton series. In this blog post I’m going to tell you all about the instruments in a string quartet and the beautiful music written for this ensemble throughout the centuries.

What instruments are in a string quartet?

A string quartet is one of the most popular and enduring ensembles in classical music. It comprises four instruments: two violins, a viola, and a cello. Each instrument contributes a unique voice and character to the ensemble, creating a rich tapestry of sound.

Violins

The first and second violins are the same instruments, but they play a different part and have a different role in the string quartet.

• First Violin: Often plays the melody or the highest part. The first violin typically leads the group and may play more virtuosic passages.
• Second Violin: Plays harmony and counter-melodies, providing support to the first violin. The second violin’s role is crucial in creating the quartet’s overall balance.

Viola

The viola looks a lot like a violin and is held in the same way, but it’s a bit bigger.

• Tuning: Tuned a fifth below the violin (C-G-D-A).
• Characteristics: The viola has a deeper, richer sound than the violin, often described as warm and mellow. It plays both melody and harmony, filling the middle range of the quartet’s sound.

Cello

The cello rests on the floor on it’s endpin and is held between the knees of the player. This is the biggest instrument in a string quartet with the lowest sound.

• Tuning: Tuned an octave below the viola (C-G-D-A).
• Characteristics: The cello provides the bass foundation for the quartet, offering a deep, resonant tone. It often plays the bass line but can also carry the melody.

Tuning and Characteristics

All string instruments in a quartet are tuned in perfect fifths, except the cello, which is tuned in a perfect octave compared to the viola. This tuning allows for a wide range of notes and rich harmonies. The instruments’ timbres combine to create a full, balanced sound:

• Violins: Bright and piercing tones.
• Viola: Warm and rich tones.
• Cello: Deep and resonant tones.

For more information on the differences between the violin, viola and cello, their open string tuning and their playing ranges, watch this video.

Characteristics of String Quartet Music

A string quartet typically follows a four-movement structure, a format that became standard during the Classical period. Each movement has distinct characteristics, contributing to the overall narrative and emotional arc of the piece.

1. First Movement: Usually in sonata form and set at a fast tempo (Allegro). This movement often establishes the main themes and sets the tone for the entire quartet.
2. Second Movement: Slower and more lyrical (Adagio or Andante). It provides a contrast to the energetic first movement, often showcasing the quartet’s expressive capabilities.
3. Third Movement: A dance-like movement, either a Minuet and Trio or a Scherzo. The Minuet is more stately, while the Scherzo is quicker and more playful.
4. Fourth Movement: The finale, usually fast and lively (Allegro or Presto). It brings the quartet to an exciting and often climactic conclusion.

This structure allows composers to explore a wide range of emotions and musical ideas within a single work, making the string quartet a versatile and expressive ensemble.

Development of the String Quartet

Classical Period

The string quartet emerged in the mid-18th century, with Joseph Haydn playing a pivotal role in its development. Often referred to as the “father of the string quartet,” Haydn’s contributions were crucial in establishing the quartet’s form and style. His early quartets were lighter, resembling divertimentos, but over time, he developed a more sophisticated approach, integrating complex thematic development and intricate counterpoint.

Other key composers from the Classical period include:

• Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Expanded the expressive range of the quartet, incorporating operatic and symphonic elements.
• Ludwig van Beethoven: Revolutionized the string quartet, pushing its technical and emotional boundaries. His late quartets, in particular, are celebrated for their profound depth and innovation. Some argue that Beethoven is the first romantic composer.

Listen to some string quartets from the classical period:

Romantic Period

During the Romantic period, the string quartet continued to evolve, with composers exploring new emotional and harmonic landscapes.

• Franz Schubert: His quartets are known for their lyrical beauty and emotional intensity, particularly the famous “Death and the Maiden” quartet.
• Felix Mendelssohn: Combined classical forms with Romantic expressiveness, creating quartets that are both elegant and deeply felt.
• Johannes Brahms: His quartets are marked by their structural complexity and rich harmonic language, reflecting his meticulous craftsmanship.

Listen to some string quartets from the romantic period:

Modern Era

In the 20th century, the string quartet saw further innovation as composers experimented with new techniques and styles.

• Béla Bartók: Integrated folk music elements and modernist techniques, creating quartets that are rhythmically and harmonically adventurous.
• Dmitri Shostakovich: Used the quartet to express personal and political themes, with works that are both deeply personal and universally resonant.
• Arnold Schoenberg: Introduced atonality and twelve-tone techniques, challenging traditional harmonic conventions and expanding the quartet’s expressive potential.

Listen to some string quartets from the modern era:

Get to know more string quartets in this video about the evolution of string quartets featuring 33 famous string quartet pieces.

Top 5 String Quartets Ever Written

Here are some famous string quartets that you really must listen.

Early to Modern String Quartet Masterpieces

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

A profound and innovative work, known for its continuous seven-movement structure.

Franz Schubert – String Quartet No. 14 in D minor, “Death and the Maiden”

A dramatic and emotional piece, exploring themes of life and death.

Joseph Haydn – String Quartet in C Major, Op. 76, No. 3 “Emperor”

Famous for its second movement, which became the German national anthem.

Dmitri Shostakovich – String Quartet No. 8 in C minor, Op. 110

A haunting and powerful work, reflecting the composer’s personal and political struggles.

Béla Bartók – String Quartet No. 4

An innovative piece, blending folk music influences with modernist techniques.

8 Best String Quartet Groups Today

Here are some of the best string quartet groups performing today, known for their exceptional musicianship, diverse repertoire, and critical acclaim:

Kronos Quartet

Renowned for their innovative approach, the Kronos Quartet has been at the forefront of contemporary and world music for over four decades. They are known for their collaborations with a wide range of composers and artists, bringing new and eclectic music to the string quartet repertoire.

Emerson String Quartet

One of the most celebrated string quartets in the world, the Emerson String Quartet is acclaimed for their technical precision and expressive interpretations. They have an extensive discography and have won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards.

Takács Quartet

The Takács Quartet is known for their deep understanding and interpretation of classical and romantic string quartet repertoire. They have received international acclaim for their performances and recordings, particularly of Beethoven and Bartók quartets.

Danish String Quartet

This group is celebrated for their dynamic and adventurous performances. They seamlessly blend classical works with contemporary and folk music, showcasing their versatility and innovative spirit.

Belcea Quartet

The Belcea Quartet is praised for their powerful and emotive performances. They have a broad repertoire that spans from classical to modern works, and they are known for their insightful interpretations and cohesive ensemble playing.

Jerusalem Quartet

The Jerusalem Quartet is recognized for their polished and refined performances. They have a rich discography and are especially known for their interpretations of works by Haydn, Beethoven, and Shostakovich.

Quatuor Ébène

This French quartet is known for their versatility, performing both classical and jazz music. They are admired for their technical brilliance and unique, expressive interpretations.

Borodin Quartet

The Borodin Quartet has a long and distinguished history, particularly noted for their performances of Russian repertoire, including the works of Shostakovich and Tchaikovsky.

These quartets are among the most respected and influential groups performing today, each bringing their unique style and expertise to the world of string quartet music.

String Quartets in popular and crossover music

String quartets have increasingly ventured into crossover and popular music, bridging the gap between classical traditions and contemporary genres. This fusion allows quartets to reach broader audiences and explore new musical landscapes. For example, Bond is a British-Australian electric string quartet known for blending classical music with pop, dance, and electronic elements. Vitamin String Quartet has gained fame for their classical renditions of popular songs from various genres, including rock and pop, often featured in TV shows like “Bridgerton.” Apocalyptica, originally a classical string quartet from Finland, is famous for their heavy metal renditions, particularly of Metallica songs. 2Cellos, while not a traditional string quartet, has made a significant impact with their rock and pop covers, showcasing the cello’s versatility. Lastly, the Turtle Island Quartet has seamlessly integrated jazz, classical, and popular music, creating innovative arrangements that transcend genre boundaries. These ensembles demonstrate the versatility of string quartets and their ability to adapt to and influence modern music.