Arianna String Quartet Concert Series

American Journey Part I: Travels and Explorations

Many American composers strive to balance tradition with a sense of adventure and individualism, an important part of the American experience for many of us whose families have come from distant lands. How can contemporary concert music present new perspectives on heritage and identity?

Reena Esmail and Gabriela Lena Frank, two of the most exciting and celebrated composers living today, bring dynamic perspectives to this question through their works for string quartet, which you will find as thought provoking as they are stunningly beautiful and evocative. The Arianna Quartet will be your guide in an evening devoted to these fascinating works by two of America’s most vibrant musical voices.

In Depth: Beethoven’s String Quartet Op. 130

Go behind the scenes with the Arianna String Quartet as they delve into one of Beethoven’s last compositions. Written in the 1820s, the “Late Quartets” continue to challenge performers and audiences alike with their alluring beauty and expressive complexities. Always the innovator, Beethoven achieved new levels of creativity and personal intensity in these works that continues to inspire composers today. This evening’s conversation will also reveal aspects of the Arianna Quartet’s teamwork as they make decisions to heighten the expressive power of the pieces they bring to life.

Whether you consider yourself a newcomer to classical music or a chamber music connoisseur, this is an evening you won’t want to miss!

American Journey Part II: In Progress

In the history of classical music there has been a constant expansion of the range expression. From Beethoven’s individualism to Phillip Glass’s minimalism and beyond, each fresh approach challenged listeners to reconsider the expressive potential of classical concert music. Continuing in this tradition of breaking new ground, the American composers featured on tonight’s program include music from a variety of traditions we don’t always hear in the concert hall. These musical expressions help define who we are as a people, and also help us to see ourselves differently.

With beautiful music by Frederick Tillis and George Walker, the evening will also feature “Elegy: A Cry From The Grave”, a new string quartet by the brilliant composer Carlos Simon, who brings the relevance of social activism into his works. Join the Arianna Quartet for an unforgettable evening of stunning American music.

“The Chemistry of Sound” with special guest, Dr. James Bashkin, UMSL Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

How can a string quartet exemplify chemistry? Monday, March 6th, the Arianna String Quartet will be joined once again by their UMSL colleague, Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Dr. James Bashkin, for an exploration of the connections and common ground shared between music and chemistry. Enjoy intriguing explanations, insights and comparisons that will include a discussion of chemical and musical 'building blocks' and how these basic elements artfully combine to create meaningful components of our physical and musical worlds.

“Inside the Art of Baseball and String Quartets” with special guest, John Costello, St. Louis Cardinals former relief pitcher.

When we think of athletes, we think of training, discipline, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence in performance. But do we also think of professional musicians? Join former St. Louis Cardinal Pitcher John Costello and the Arianna String Quartet on Monday, April 3rd for a discussion exploring connections between professional athletes and professional musicians, and the ways they each endeavor to elevate basic skills to the level of art, how they are challenged by their teammates to excel, and how this process transforms both their physical awareness and their understanding of achievement.

Art of the Brew 3! with special guest, Jared Williamson, Schlafly Lead Brewer.

Join the Arianna String Quartet and Lead Brewer Jared Williamson for the third annual “Art of the Brew”, Monday May 1st at the Schlafly Tap Room. The Arianna String Quartet will play chamber music masterpieces, selected specifically to pair with six favorite Schlafly beers, and talk with Schlafly Lead Brewer Jared Williamson about how the ingredients that create great music and great beer are not as different as you might expect. This evening of distinctive Schlafly brews and inspiring string quartets has become a St. Louis spring tradition and an audience favorite!