Programme:

Felix MENDELSSOHN (1809–1847)
Quartet in A major, Op. 13
Adagio-Allegro
Adagio non lento
Intermezzo
Finale, Presto

Luigi BOCCHERINI (1743–1805)
Quintet No. 4 for guitar and strings in D major, G.448 "Fandango"
Pastorale
Allegro Maestoso
Grave Assai

Joaquín TURINA (1882-1949)
The Bullfighter’s Prayer, op. 74

Works by Turina and Boccherini give this programme a particular Spanish feel, while the work of Felix Mendelssohn reveals the style of the first quartets after Beethoven. Mendelssohn was the first to be aware of the importance of Beethoven’s work and in spreading the word. This is why it is not unusual that the maestro’s influence has rubbed off on his style to such an extent, always retaining a highly personal melodic spirit. The Bullfighter’s Prayer is one of Turina’s most famous works and in it we find the composer’s customary Spanish spirit. We also find it in the well-known Quintet for guitar and strings by Boccherini, known as Fandango; one of over three hundred chamber works by this adopted son of Madrid.