Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
In honor of the United States' 250th anniversary, the Opus 76 Quartet's 2025–26 season embarks on a sweeping musical journey through America’s chamber music heritage. This commemorative series will highlight landmark works that have shaped the nation's musical identity, including vivid recreations of some of the first professional string quartet recitals ever performed in the U.S. — originally brought to life by the pioneering Kneisel Quartet. Adding to the season's grandeur, the Quartet will be joined by internationally celebrated violinist Alexander Markov, renowned for his electrifying performances and virtuosic interpretations of Paganini. Together, they will celebrate the pinnacle of violin artistry, performing a selection of Paganini's works arranged for quartet and solo violin that showcase the dazzling flair and expressive depth that have become Markov's signature. Join us as we pay tribute to the roots of American chamber music, celebrating its evolution from intimate salons to concert halls, and envisioning the bold future still to come.
Founding Father, Unexpected Composer
What do bifocals, the lightning rod, and a string quartet in E-flat have in common? Benjamin Franklin. Join the Opus 76 Quartet as we bring history to life with a rare performance of Franklin’s very own quartet — a charming and witty piece that proves America’s first diplomat also had serious musical chops. Don’t miss this unforgettable blend of history, humor, and harmony!
From U.S. Premieres to a Bold New Performance
In tribute to the trailblazing Kneisel Quartet — who gave America its first taste of Beethoven’s string quartets — the Opus 76 Quartet will perform two of the master’s most iconic works: the sublime Op. 18 No. 3 and the heroic Op. 59 No. 1 (“Razumovsky”). These pieces stunned audiences at their U.S. premieres over a century ago, and we’re honored to bring them to life once again as part of our 250th anniversary season. Experience the music that helped ignite America’s love affair with chamber music!
The Father of the String Quartet, Reimagined
Step into the sound world that helped define a nation’s classical voice. The Opus 76 Quartet proudly presents Haydn’s Op. 76 Nos. 2 (“Fifths”) and 3 (“Emperor”) — two masterpieces once introduced to American ears by the legendary Kneisel Quartet. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, these works remind us how timeless elegance, invention, and spirit laid the groundwork for America’s chamber music journey. Come hear the quartets that helped start it all — as vibrant today as ever!
A Czech Masterpiece, Born on American Soil
Few works capture the spirit of America quite like Dvořák’s “American” Quartet op.96 — composed during his transformative stay in the U.S. and infused with the rhythms, melodies, and optimism of a young nation finding its voice. As part of our 250th anniversary season, the Opus 76 Quartet brings this iconic piece to life, celebrating the fusion of Old World mastery and New World inspiration that helped shape America’s musical identity. Join us for a performance that’s as soulful as it is celebratory!
Brahms in America — A Legacy of Passion and Precision
Brahms’ String Quartet No. 1 in C minor is a storm of intensity, lyricism, and structural brilliance — a cornerstone of the Romantic chamber music repertoire. First introduced to American audiences by the pioneering Kneisel Quartet, this work helped elevate chamber music to new heights on U.S. soil. As part of our 250th anniversary season, the Opus 76 Quartet honors that legacy with a fresh performance of this monumental piece — fierce, fiery, and profoundly expressive. Come hear the quartet that helped define a musical era.
An American Voice, Intimate and Enduring
A rare gem of the American chamber music repertoire, Edward MacDowell’s “Romanza” for string quartet offers a glimpse into the lyrical heart of one of America’s first great composers. Deeply expressive and unapologetically romantic, this intimate work reflects the budding cultural confidence of a young nation. As part of our season honoring the United States’ 250th anniversary, the Opus 76 Quartet is proud to revive this seldom-heard treasure — a poignant reminder that America’s musical voice has always been rich, nuanced, and deeply human.
‘Transport yourself to the elegance of 18th-century Britain with Music of Regency — an immersive concert experience by the Opus 76 Quartet. Performed in the round, with the audience surrounding the musicians seated at an authentic antique chamber music table, this intimate setting recreates the way chamber music was first heard and shared among friends. Featuring works premiered during and around the British Regency era (1730’s -1830’s), the program is paired with aperitifs and Regency-inspired cocktails, allowing guests to sip and savor while seated just inches from the ensemble. With the freedom to change seats at intermission for a new view, each listener experiences the music from a unique, personal perspective — a celebration of timeless music, elegant design, and the art of true listening.
A Monumental Tribute
In the 2026/27 season, the Opus 76 Quartet embarks on one of classical music’s most profound journeys — performing the complete string quartets of Ludwig van Beethoven in honor of the 200th anniversary of his death. Having recorded the full cycle for Kansas Public Radio and brought it to audiences around the globe, the Quartet brings profound insight, passion, and reverence to these iconic works. From the fiery early quartets and heroic middle works, through the transcendent late masterpieces, this season is a once-in-a-generation celebration of Beethoven’s genius — experienced through the music that forever changed the art of the string quartet.