Four Voices, One Conversation: The Art of the String Quartet
The ideal ensemble, a model democracy and the ultimate chamber music experience, the combination of two violins, a viola and a cello have inspired some of our greatest composers to some of their greatest works, and a unique breed of string players to dedicate their lives performing them.
Come backstage into the fascinating life of a string quartet as well as a close look at the brilliant beginnings from “Papa” Haydn through Mozart Beethoven and Mendelssohn. Meet four major 20th ensembles: the Budapest, Guarneri, Juilliard and Amadeus quartets and learn how they make beautiful music together.
Faculty Bio
Violist and conductor Ben Simon has been a member of two pro string quartets, the Naumburg Award-winning New World String Quartet and the Stanford String Quartet. Music Director of the SFCO for more than 20 years, he has taught at Harvard, Stanford and UC Berkeley.
This is an In-Person, Livestreamed + Recorded Course
- Classes meet in person at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, at 3491 Mount Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
- Classes will also stream live, and be video recorded
- You must be a current OLLI @Berkeley member to register. Learn about membership, including our fee assistance program
Schedule Highlights
- Course starts on Thursday, Oct. 16, and ends on Thursday, Nov. 6
- Classes meet for 4 weeks, 2 hours per session (10-noon)
- All course materials, including videos, will remain available to view and enjoy through Dec. 31
Member Praise for Ben Simon
Ben's very deep, well researched knowledge of the subject was impressive. His presentation of the course was well organized and insightful.
This course was amazing! Ben's enthusiasm was infectious. I learned so much.