Par WEIR JUDITH. “Shortly after completing my Second Quartet, I realised that all of its formal features reminded me of moments from Beethoven’s quartets. An edgy, conversational opening followed by a long cello tune; an athletic minuet and trio; a hymn-like slow movement; and a second scherzo for the finale, ending with an extended, impassioned coda.
I hadn’t intended to write a Beethoven homage; but neither was the resemblance to my favourite quartet composer a coincidence. So my subtitle is also an oblique reference to him. “The Spaniard” was Beethoven’s nickname at home in Bonn, on account of his “short, stocky build” and “dark-brown facial complexion”; according to his Bonn contemporary and neighbour, Gottfried Fischer.” – Judith Weir / Date parution : 2025-03-25/ Répertoire / Quatuor à Cordes
