Artists: Oliver Baily, Mollie Wrafter, Abigail Hammett, and Robert Wheatley
Instruments: Strings
Concert Sponsor: Austins Department Store
Join us for an extraordinary evening with the Treske String Quartet, a dynamic ensemble known for its innovative programming. This concert features a blend of classical masterpieces and contemporary works, showcasing the quartet's versatility and commitment to diverse repertoire.
The programme opens with Beethoven's Quartet No. 10 in E flat major, Op. 74 'Harp', named for its pizzicato sections that resemble the plucking of harp strings. This piece is a testament to Beethoven's genius, blending lyrical melodies with intricate counterpoint.
Following this, experience the contemporary world of Andrew Norman's An Index of Peculiar Strokes, a piece that showcases innovative string techniques and captivating soundscapes, perfectly complementing the rest of the programme.
The concert continues with Purcell's Chacony in G minor, reimagined by Benjamin Britten. This baroque classic is infused with Britten's distinct touch, bridging old and new.
Britten's Quartet No. 2 in C major, Op 36 concludes the programme. It's a work that combines profound depth with intricate textures.
Formed in 2017 and based in Manchester, the Treske String Quartet has quickly established itself as a leading ensemble in both contemporary and traditional music. The quartet, consisting of Oliver Baily (violin), Mollie Wrafter (violin), Abigail Hammett (viola), and Robert Wheatley (cello), has performed premieres specially written for them by emerging composers. Since completing the RNCM String Quartet Studio in 2023, they have been named Young Quartet in Residence at the Royal Irish Academy of Music in Dublin. They were prizewinners at the 2023 Cavatina Competition at the Wigmore Hall.
The quartet's mission is to champion repertoire by 20th and 21st-century composers. These curating programmes offer audiences radical experiences with new sound worlds. The Treske Quartet frequently collaborates with living composers, contributing to the expanding pool of modern string quartet music.
Oliver Baily (Violin): A graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM), Oliver has performed extensively across the UK and internationally. He plays on a Derazey violin from the late 19th century and a modern instrument by W.E. Hill & Sons, thanks to the Harrison Frank Family Foundation.
Mollie Wrafter (Violin): Mollie recently completed her studies at RNCM, where she won several prestigious prizes. She performs on a copy of the 'Lord Wilton' Guarneri del Gesù violin, made by Glen Collins in 2018.
Abigail Hammett (Viola): Abigail completed her Masters at RNCM and is a dedicated chamber musician. She plays a viola made by her father, Timothy Hammett, in 2013.
Robert Wheatley (Cello): Robert is a versatile musician with an international career, performing in various genres and interdisciplinary projects. He studied at the Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen and RNCM in Manchester.
Through their dedication to high-quality chamber music and innovative programming, the Treske String Quartet continues to captivate audiences and contribute significantly to the contemporary music scene.