Takács Quartet to perform An Evening of Beethoven and Bartók in Aspen

Takács Quartet has long been a staple at Aspen Music Festival and School, and on March 6 it returns to Harris Concert Hall with a program featuring Beethoven and Bartók.

“Harris Hall is one of our very favorite concert halls in the world to play string quartets. It inspires us to play a full range of dynamics and characters,” said violinist Harumi Rhodes. “It’s rare to find a space that can provide both intimacy and clarity – it is a pleasure to return to Aspen’s Harris Hall and connect with such a warm and welcoming audience.”

Entering its 50 year, the quartet continues its innovative approach to presenting classical music. Its commitment to present and project the intent of the piece with clarity and expertise is what sets Takács Quartet apart from others.

Though Rhodes describes string-quartet life and “hard, gritty work,” she also says it allows her to feel liberated.

“It is a luxury to be able to experiment together on a daily basis,” she said. “Trusting each other on stage allows all of us to be spontaneous.”

The evening’s program consists of Beethoven’s String Quartet in F major, op. 18, no. 1; Bartók’s String Quartet No. 3, BB 93; and Beethoven’s String Quartet in F major, op. 135.

Although the first piece is one of Beethoven’s earlier ones, it has a vibrant and lyrical quality.

“It’s a fully formed personality,” she said. “We love the surprising contrasts of wit, pathos, and brilliance.”

Bartók’s bold and gripping work brings with it a sense of adventure and risk-taking.

“At times, there are moments of eerie dissonance – other times, there’s a festive character to the music that feels as if the party is about to get dangerously out of control,” she said.

And, Beethoven’s final string quartet delivers an introspective beauty.

“In some ways, it’s surprisingly playful and light. In other ways, its characters can be quirky and eccentric – as if entering a secret garden full of mystery,” she said. “It also has one of the most heartfelt slow movements ever written. It’s one of our very favorite pieces to play.”