Beethoven became gravely ill in the Spring of 1825. When he recovered he continued writing his fifteenth String Quartet. This third movement gives us special insight into Beethoven’s belief that he dodged death for at least a few years. Sean Neukom finds Beethoven’s use of Renaissance and Baroque compositional styles another indication that Beethoven was expressing his mortality, that he knew he’s be joining these composers in the after life soon, but at least he got to write a few more pieces before meeting his maker.
The Beo String quartet is in its second decade and remains in Pittsburgh because they recognize the city’s artistic and logistic values. With Artist Residencies in several states, they maintain a vigorous schedule of concerts, recording, video production, music publication and educational programs. But there is so much more: they are dedicated to expanding their audience by including styles found in rock and heavy metal concerts. Their album and movie Triggerland features heavy metal music for string quartet and drum and electric guitar. It was composed by Sean Neukom, violist in the quartet, brother to Jason, violinist in the group. Cellist Ryan Ash and violinist Andrew “Gio” Giordano make the other half of the ensemble. Their concept of a modern string quartet playing is well thought out, discussed in great detail and executed superbly. Both the album 131 and the movie Triggerland received high praise: 131 got five star reviews and was featured on the front page of Fanfare Magazine, and Triggerland got first prize in film festivals California and Canada. More in the show notes at https://accelerandocast.com/show_notes/
The Orion Quartet announced their retirement this Spring, playing their last concert of a 36 year run. New quartets are rising, including the Beo Quartet-another one with Pittsburgh roots and again started by two brothers. The business plan for a string quartet is an unusual one. It relies on four equal partners, and each have to pull their weight if the group is to survive. More in the show notes at https://accelerandocast.com/show_notes/
