The Manoel Theatre is presenting the first two of a series of concerts featuring Beethoven’s string quartets, performed by the renowned Leipzig String Quartet, with each concert featuring a different programme.

Founded in 1988, the Leipzig String Quartet is now widely acclaimed as one of the most exciting string quartets on the international chamber music scene.

The first concert features Opus 18/3, 59/2 and 132, while the second one features Opus 18/1, 95 and 130. Also to be performed is No. 11, Op. 95, titled Serioso, the intimacy of which requires intense and concentrated attention by both players and listeners.

“The string quartet as a genre is a very special one. Since Haydn more or less formalised them, string quartets have been regarded as the apex of musical poetry.

“This is due in no small way to Beethoven’s hauntingly magical output with his 16quartets, one more inimitably beautiful than the last. A chef d’ouevre not surpassed even by the amazing Shostakovitch Cycle in the last century,” Kenneth Zammit Tabona, artistic director at the Manoel Theatre, said.

The Leipzig String Quartet will be performing on December 10 and 12 at the Manoel Theatre at 8pm. Both concerts are preceded by a pre-concert talk for ticket holders at 7.15pm. For tickets call on 2124 6389, or send an e-mail to bookings@teatrumanoel.com.mt.