Ligeti Quartet

This is a concert conceived as sonic mass; in shape and form, transforming from beginning to end.

Featuring the works of two innovators in mathematical construction, Nancarrow’s early String Quartet is a labyrinth of blues ­inspired counterpoint, whilst the visceral possibilities of texture are explored in Iannis Xenakis’s brutally virtuosic Tetras.

Three composers who radically transform folk traditions into new musical languages also feature. Bartók’s tightly­ woven Third String Quartet grows from a haunting opening into dance-­like melodies, and Ligeti’s dazzling First Quartet hints at the extreme abstraction and occasional absurdity that would later become hallmarks of his style. Christian Mason’s also explores folk traditions, by applying the overtone properties of Tuvan throat singing to string instruments.

The concert also features a world premiere, Department of Music composer George Nicholson’s tribute to the late Peter Cropper.