The Maxwell String Quartet

In complete contrast to the ‘folky’ quality of the Rachel Hair Trio, the next Arran Music Society concert, on Saturday October 19th, will feature the Maxwell String Quartet, who are now the most sought-after and widely performing chamber ensemble in Scotland. Classical Music Magazine recently called them “one of the front-runners in young chamber music groups in the UK.” Its members met while studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where in 2011 they were named the first Young Artists in Residence there. In March this year Michael Tumelty of the Herald described one of their performances as “brilliantly fresh, unexpected and exhilarating … an enlightening and enthralling musical experience.” And he is not an easy critic to please.

Liam Lynch and George Smith, first and second violin Asher Zaccardelli, viola and Duncan Strachan, cello, have sent details of the brilliantly varied programme planned for Arran, as follows:

• Beethoven, String Quartet in B Flat, Op. 18 no. 6
• Anna Meredith, Songs for the M8 and New Work (An Enterprise Music Scotland Commission)
• (Interval
• James MacMillan, Memento
• Shostakovich, 2 Pieces for String Quartet (Elegy and Polka)
• Ravel, String Quartet in F

It’s a fabulous mixture of fresh work with the traditional, with something for every taste, and such a widely praised, impressive group is much to be looked forward to. The concert starts in Brodick Hall at 7.30 pm, and tickets at £10 can be bought at the door or in advance from Inspirations of Arran.