Britten: String Quartet No. 2, Op. 36

Benjamin Britten's sublime String Quartet No. 2, Op. 36, is a masterpiece of 20th-century classical music, now available on the Lawo Classics label. Completed on 14 October 1945, this work was premiered by the Zorian Quartet at London's Wigmore Hall on 21 November of the same year, marking the 250th anniversary of the death of English composer Henry Purcell.

This string quartet, comprising three movements - Allegro calmo, senza rigore, Vivace, and Chacony sostenuto - showcases Britten's unique blend of neoclassical and operatic influences. The Chacony, in particular, is a tribute to Purcell, with Britten seeking to embody the same qualities he admired in the earlier composer's work.

Written during a pivotal year in Britten's career, which saw the phenomenal success of his opera Peter Grimes, this string quartet demonstrates the composer's mastery of instrumental music. With a duration of 30 minutes, this album is a must-listen for fans of classical music, offering a glimpse into Britten's innovative and enduring compositional style. Released on 29 October 2024, Britten: String Quartet No. 2, Op. 36, is a testament to the timelessness of Britten's music, and a celebration of his contribution to the world of classical music.

Benjamin Britten, born on St. Cecilia's Day in 1913, was a titan of 20th-century British music, renowned for his profound contributions to opera, choral works, and orchestral compositions. As a child prodigy, Britten began composing at the age of five, and his musical genius blossomed throughout his life, making him a central figure in British classical music. His operas, such as the haunting "Peter Grimes," are celebrated as some of the finest in the English language since Henry Purcell. Britten's "War Requiem," a powerful anti-war piece, remains one of his most enduring works. Beyond his compositions, Britten was also an exceptional pianist and conductor, leaving an indelible mark on the musical world. His legacy continues to inspire, with his works performed and cherished by audiences worldwide.