String Quartet No. 1

Instrumentation

String Quartet

Other Information

This string quartet, written in 1970, adheres to the traditional four-movement format which, like other works by the composer, is dominated by a motto theme. This is heard at the opening played by all four instruments and it occurs at important points: the end of the first moment and at the beginning & end of the finale. Unison and octave writing is common throughout the quartet at points of climax. Elsewhere the music is highly contrapuntal; melody and accompaniment regularly pass from one instrument to another.

The four movements are 1. Lento con passione/Allegro; 2. Adagio mesto; 3. Scherzo & trio Allegro molto/Meno mosso & 4. Andante piacevole/Allegro con brio.

This short extract from the complete recording [5th February 1979] is solely from the first movement and is ONLY for evidential purposes to demonstrate the composer’s style and to compare with his later string quartets. The recording is by the Delmé String Quartet who, at that time, were Galina Solodchin & David Ogden [violins]; John Underwood [viola] & Joy Hall [cello].

If the complete recording is required [strictly for private study] it, and the score, may be acquired at cost by contacting the CCA directly.

The Zacharias Quartet played Frank´s "First String Quartet" in the wonderful setting Holy Cross of St Michael Greek Orthodox Cathedral on 22nd November 2014 - further information will follow.