György Ligeti - String Quartet no. 2

Violin - Asiia Garipova
Violin - Yaodong Zhang
Viola - Gung-Hui Ho
Cello - Hohyun Yoon
21.05.2023
Ernst Barlach Haus, Hamburg, Germany
György Ligeti's String Quartet No. 2 is a significant work in the world of contemporary classical music. Ligeti, a Hungarian-Austrian composer, is known for his innovative and avant-garde compositions, and this string quartet is no exception. Here is some information about this composition:
1. Composition Date: Ligeti composed his String Quartet No. 2 in 1968, during a period when he was exploring various avant-garde techniques and pushing the boundaries of traditional classical music.
2. Structure: The quartet is divided into four movements, and it is known for its complex and intricate structure. Ligeti was influenced by micropolyphony, a technique where numerous independent voices weave together to create a dense and intricate texture. This technique is prevalent throughout the work.
Allegro nervoso
Sostenuto, molto calmo
Come un meccanismo di precisione
Presto furioso, brutale, tumultuoso
3. Micropolyphony: As mentioned earlier, micropolyphony is a central feature of this quartet. Ligeti used this technique to create a web of intricate textures and interwoven musical lines, giving the impression of a constantly shifting and evolving sonic landscape. It can be challenging for both performers and listeners due to its complexity.
4. Extended Techniques: Ligeti was known for experimenting with extended techniques in his compositions, and this quartet is no exception. The performers are required to use various unconventional playing techniques, such as sul ponticello (playing near the bridge of the instrument), col legno (using the wooden side of the bow), and glissandi (sliding between pitches), to create unique and otherworldly sounds.
5. Reception: Ligeti's String Quartet No. 2 has received critical acclaim for its innovation and challenging nature. It is considered a seminal work in the string quartet repertoire of the 20th century and has been widely performed and recorded by many renowned string quartets.
6. Influence: This quartet, along with Ligeti's other works, had a significant influence on the development of contemporary classical music. His use of micropolyphony and extended techniques paved the way for future composers to explore new sonic possibilities.
Overall, György Ligeti's String Quartet No. 2 is a groundbreaking and challenging composition that reflects the composer's avant-garde approach to music. It remains an important work in the repertoire of modern classical music, admired for its complexity and innovation.