Why a String Quartet

A String Quartet consists of two violins, a viola, and a cello. The instruments in the quartet loosely represent the voices found in a choir (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass). The form first came to be used after the middle of the 18th century. Haydn occasionally played his quartets on social occasions in an impromptu quartet ensemble of which Mozart was also a member. Because his example helped codify a form that originated in the Baroque suite, Haydn is often referred to as "the father of the string quartet." Quartet composition flourished in the Classical era, with both Mozart and Beethoven writing famous series of quartets to set alongside Haydn's. A very slight slackening in the pace of quartet composition occurred in the 19th century; here, a curious phenomenon was seen in composers who wrote only one quartet, perhaps to show that they could fully command this hallowed genre. With the onset of the Modern era of classical music, the quartet returned to full popularity among composers.

There are many reasons to choose a string quartet. Aside from the extensive repertoire, the combination of low and high voices provide a rich and full sound that would not be present in, say, a trio or other configuration. Ever since Haydn's day, the string quartet has been prestigious, and considered a true test of the classical composer's art.

String quartets bring elegance to any event, and are pleasing not just to the ear, but to the eye as well.