Modern Classics Vol. 2

The Lehner Quartet brings vibrant energy and impeccable precision to our 2nd New Classics album, a bold collection of brand-new string quartets that redefine the boundaries of chamber music. Each composition, meticulously crafted by rising contemporary composers, offers a fresh perspective on the timeless string quartet format. From the hauntingly beautiful to the explosively rhythmic, these pieces explore a wide range of emotions and soundscapes, showcasing the Lehner Quartet’s mastery and versatility. This album is a thrilling testament to the future of classical music, where tradition meets innovation in every note.

Listen

Featured Works:

Joel Feigin: Mosaic in Two Panels

Panel I

Panel II

Jana Skarecky: Australian Images

I. Kata Tjuta

II. Uluru

III. Ubirr

IV. Karrimurra Waterfall

MOSAIC IN TWO PANELS for String Quartet

Joel Feigin (1997)

In this work, the elements of a classical string quartet are fragmented like the polished stones of a mosaic. The piece is in two large movements (or panels) separated by a pause, but fragments of a lively and playful “sonata movement”, a lyrical slow movement and a fast, energetic rondo constantly interrupt each other, creating a mercurial and unexpected sequence of events. Two short movements occur in both panels: a mysterious introduction, and a fast fragment that introduces crucial joints of the form. I am deeply grateful for the dedication and devotion that the members of the Lehner String Quartet have brought to this performance. Mosaic in Two Panels is dedicated to my wife, Severine Neff.

— Joel Feigin

Joel Feigin's bio

Australian Images by Jana Skarecky

Jana Skarecky’s string quartet Australian Images is in memory of Peter Sculthorpe, her teacher and friend. It is inspired by the majestic and mysterious Australian land, where she lived for a year and later visited again. The four movements evoke Jana’s own experiences of four special places. These land formations are culturally and spiritually important to the Australian Aboriginal people who have been their caretakers for millennia, and who have their own traditions associated with them.