The Spokane String Quartet opens its 2024-25 season Sunday, Oct. 13, with a concert featuring music by Beethoven, Dvořák and Chickasaw classical composer Jerod Tate. The concert begins at 3 p.m. at The Fox Theater.
Beethoven focused his final two years composing music primarily for the intimate tone colors of the string quartet. Unlike his other Late Quartets written during this time, which were monumental in scale, complexity and expressive range, String Quartet No. 16 is more of a distillation down to the very essence. He returns to the four-movement classical form pioneered by Haydn. Beethoven knew that Quartet No. 16 would be his last, coming just months before his death. Despite facing illness, deafness, and family struggles, he masterfully brings lightness, humor, a serene hymn, and a joyful finale to his concluding musical journey.
Jared Impichchaachaaha’ Tate describes his identity as an American Indian composer, member of the Chickasaw Nation, Oklahoma. He is a strong advocate for Indigenous composers and performers, and American Indian classical composition. Pisachi (Reveal) was commissioned to honor Southwest Indians, and Tate draws inspiration from Hopi and Pueblo Indian music. Pisachi begins with a viola solo paraphrasing a Pueblo Buffalo Dance, and later references Hopi Buffalo Dance and Hopi Elk Dance music. Tate’s use of the string quartet is expressive, dynamic, and powerfully original.
Antonín Dvořák dedicated his String Quartet No. 9 to Johannes Brahms. Until their paths crossed, Dvořák was an unknown composer from provincial Bohemia. Brahms recognized Dvořák’s natural musical talent and introduced him to Brahms’ publisher, leading to commissions and recognition. Within two years Dvorak’s compositions were performed in Dresden, Hamburg, Berlin, Nice, London, and New York. Listeners were drawn to Dvořák’s well-crafted artistry filled with Czech folk-inspired melodies and rhythms, beautifully highlighted in the second movement polka of this quartet.
All seats are general admission and are available at foxtheaterspokane.com or at the door. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and free for persons under 18 and students with ID.