Regarded as Ravel’s first significant work, the String Quartet in F Major is often credited for lifting the composer out of obscurity. This fine example of French Impressionism in music employs a rich and dizzying world of rhythmic variation and tonal colour, drawing sounds from the ensemble that may fool the listener into believing more than four musicians are on stage. A perfectionist at heart, Ravel managed to find uncommon freedom when composing this work which allowed him a bold lack of restraint and experimentation. This has undoubtedly contributed to its place as one of the most highly regarded works for string quartet.

After a performance of the String Quartet in D Major at the Moscow Conservatory, Tchaikovsky noted in his diary, “never in my life have I felt so flattered and proud of my creative ability as when Leo Tolstoy, sitting next to me, heard my andante with tears coursing down his cheeks.” Known primarily for music employing large orchestral forces, Tchaikovsky wrote few works for smaller ensembles. Prized amongst this output, however, is his String Quartet in D Major. Featuring trademark moments of drama and intimately raw emotion, it’s no wonder the work is considered amongst the most outstanding string quartet compositions of the nineteenth century. If you listen closely, you may also hear Tchaikovsky’s nod to his musical idol, Mozart.