Heath Quartet

A trio of very different pieces showcased the Heath Quartet’s breadth of styles and talent; Haydn’s Op 76 featured delicate pizzicato backing in the third movement whereas cellist Christopher Murray was brisk and exciting in the fantastic ‘Allegro ma non troppo’. The Janáček ‘Intimate Letters’ Quartet was more daring and dazzling however, including eerie, fascinating ‘sul ponticello’ playing near the bridge of the instruments to create an otherworldly atmosphere in beautiful surroundings. The Heath Quartet expertly handled the strange timing and punch of the piece to emotional, dramatic and musical effect. Dvořák’s Op 106 had rich, sonorous romantic bursts and some gutsy playing but lacked the vitality and passion of the Janáček overall.

Music Room, Royal Pavilion, 18 May 2015

Rating: