“Though we live in a world that dreams of ending
that always seems about to give in
something that will not acknowledge conclusion
insists that we forever begin.” – From Begin by Brendan Kennelly
ConTempo Quartet will perform a specially curated Ostara programme as part of Lunchtime with ConTempo on Tuesday 5 March at 1:10pm in St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church. The programme features Mozart’s Quartet no. 14 in G major, K 387, nicknamed ‘Spring’. This work, written in Vienna in 1782, was the first in a collection of six string quartets that Mozart dedicated to Joseph Haydn. It is nicknamed ‘Spring’ because of its cheerful nature. Upon hearing the work, Haydn remarked to Mozart’s father, “Before God, and as an honest man, I tell you that your son is the greatest composer known to me either in person or by name.”
Also featured on the programme is ‘Forever Begin’ by Galway composer Jane O’Leary. This work, inspired by Brendan Kennelly’s poem ‘Begin’, was originally composed for MusicConnects’ series From Europe with Love – a concert programme highlighting string quartet music from each of the 27 EU countries. Of the work, O’Leary says, “This is the third fanfare I have written for ConTempo Quartet. Normally a fanfare is associated with a brass ensemble, and is an announcement of something important which is about to happen. There is a sense of excitement and anticipation, of hope and optimism – of new beginnings.” Brendan Kennelly’s iconic poem ‘Begin’ reflects on these positive feelings and the nature of renewal, and will be read by O’Leary at each performance.
Entry to all concerts is free, all are welcome. Donations are welcome. No booking is required.
Lunchtimes with ConTempo take place on the first Tuesday of the month (Feb-May, Sep-Dec).
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