An internationally-renowned string quartet will perform at the University Thursday evening, allowing students the opportunity to learn about the structure and sound of chamber music.
The Grammy award-winning Emerson String Quartet will kick off the 33rd season of the School of Music’s Chamber Music Series with their performance at Beall Concert Hall at 8 p.m. The quartet specializes in both classical and contemporary music and performs throughout North America and Europe.
Robert Hurwitz, professor of music theory and associate dean and director of undergraduate students, will be hosting “Musical Insights,” a pre-performance discussion to educate people about the music they are about to experience.
“Hearing requires special sensitivity, so I plan to teach the audience how to direct their ears,” Hurwitz said.
In his discussion, Hurwitz will play a few examples of the music in order to show how the pieces are structured and “to give people an ear into the music.”
“Anyone who goes to a live show gets a sense of fulfillment as the music sweeps you away,” he said.
Fritz Gearhart, an associate violin professor and violinist in the University’s Oregon String Quartet, said there are many benefits to watching a string quartet perform.
“Small chamber groups have to collaborate ideas, and in a sense have to be able to read each other’s minds,” he said. “The audience witnesses a fascinating combination of playing.”
He said he thinks there is a subtle level of communication between quartet members because they don’t follow a conductor’s lead.
Gearhart, who performed with the Emerson String Quartet as a student, said he is looking forward to the performance of what he called “one of the greatest … string quartets today.”
Janet Stewart, director of the Chamber Music Series, spoke highly of the musicians, calling them “world-class,” and saying the school is honored to have them perform.
Stewart said she hopes this first performance of the series will help broaden people’s concept of chamber music.
“There is some feeling, among young people especially, that chamber music is boring and only for older people, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” she said.
Chamber music has a broad spectrum, Stewart said, and the music ranges from 17th century to contemporary times, so there is something for everyone.
“I really want students to recognize the qualities of this kind of music, because they’re missing something if they don’t,” she said.
Tickets can be purchased from the Hult Center or the EMU Ticket Office for $15, $25, or $30.