Centre Stage: Beethoven’s Greatest String Quartet

The evening is dedicated to a single, profound work: Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 14. Composed toward the end of his life when he was profoundly deaf, the piece consists of seven movements played without pause. You will hear an opening fugue that carries a sense of deep introspection, followed by sections that shift rapidly between energy and stillness. Because the movements flow directly into one another, the performance creates a continuous hour-long arc of sound. You might listen for how the four instruments interact as equals, moving through music that often sounds more modern than one might expect from the early nineteenth century. It is a work of great intensity and structural complexity, yet it remains intimate. The shape of the concert allows you to focus entirely on the evolving dialogue between the two violins, viola, and cello as they navigate this challenging and emotionally varied landscape.

This performance features a quartet of leading musicians from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Violinists Jonathan Martindale and Lowri Porter are joined by Chris Yates on viola and Arthur Boutillier on cello. As principal players within the larger orchestra, these musicians are known for their technical precision and deep familiarity with the classical repertoire. While they are usually seen on the large concert hall stage, this chamber setting allows them to demonstrate the close communication and refined ensemble playing for which the CBSO’s individual sections are widely respected throughout the Midlands and beyond.

The concert takes place at the CBSO Centre in Birmingham, the orchestra's own rehearsal and performance space. The event lasts approximately 60 minutes with no interval, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a shorter, concentrated evening of music. It is also a suitable introduction for first-time listeners who wish to experience high-quality chamber music in a focused setting. There is no specific dress code for this event, so you should wear what makes you feel comfortable. The venue is purpose-built for acoustic clarity, ensuring an intimate connection between the four performers and the audience.