Schubert’s String Quintet

We are focused this evening on a single, expansive work: Franz Schubert’s String Quintet in C major. By adding a second cello to the standard string quartet arrangement, Schubert creates a sonority that feels significantly more powerful and grounded than a typical four-piece ensemble. You will hear how this extra low-end voice allows for a rich, almost symphonic texture, particularly in the lower registers. The evening is shaped by a transition from the bright, energetic opening to a slow movement that is celebrated for its deep stillness and long, sustained lines. Listen for the way the two cellos often work together to provide a velvet-like cushion for the upper strings, and keep an ear out for the sudden shifts in mood during the middle sections, where the music moves rapidly between moments of intense agitation and serene calm.

The ensemble features violinists Byron Parish and Oliver Baily, alongside Lourenço Macedo Sampaio, Lydia Dobson, and Damion Browne. These five musicians bring together a wealth of experience in chamber music, often performing in various configurations to explore the nuances of the string repertoire. Known for their precision and cohesive sound, the players are frequently seen on the regional concert circuit in West Yorkshire. While they often perform as part of larger orchestral bodies, this intimate setting allows you to witness their individual artistry and their collaborative approach to one of the most demanding works in the chamber canon.

This performance takes place at Dewsbury Town Hall on Wednesday, 28 October 2026. The venue is a grand Victorian building in the heart of the town, known for its clear acoustics which suit this type of string performance well. While the programme is categorised as opera in some listings, please note that this is a purely instrumental chamber concert with no staging, singers, or surtitles. The event features one main work and is an excellent choice if you prefer a focused, single-composer programme. There is no specific dress code, so you may wear whatever makes you feel comfortable for an evening of music.