Miro Quartet January 31, 2013

Miro Quartet Bringing the Brilliance of Beethoven to Cerritos

                       By Glen Creason

      The minute they strode resolutely to the stage, the Miro Quartet literally set the tone for an evening of no-nonsense genius from Beethoven at his most angst-ridden and serious self. Dressed like characters from Mad Men: Daniel Ching and William Fedkenhuer on violins, John Largess on Viola and Joshua Grindele on cello wasted no time in launching into the no nonsense “Serioso” which was originally not intended for public performances but composed for connoisseurs who might be broad minded enough to accept the unexpected in this piece. Struggling with his imminent deafness and financial difficulties Beethoven goes to some deep and dark places here but rays of hope shine in at least two of the movements including the exuberant conclusion. Compared to the “Serioso,” the second Quartet “La Malinconia” began like a romantic breath of fresh air despite the melancholic name, taking the audience on an introspective journey with parts filled with tangible sweetness. The demanding scherzo seemed to give the Miro Quartet motivation to charge into the pensive Allegro and a really exciting Allegretto with a passion that made it hard to blink. While the Miro gentlemen do not resort to much in stage color they put their talent into the music and made Beethoven’s genius shine forth.

The String Quartet in c-sharp major, Opus 131 completed the concert which would be appropriate since it was one of Beethoven’s last and certainly one of the most memorable of all-time. The delicate and exquisite opening Adagio of this seven part wonder just made the heart ache but it was just one of many evocative moments in this lengthy piece. While the entire ensemble played with great skill and inspiration the cello of Joshua Gindele was asked for much and the young man delivered it all. A highly appreciative crowd roared their approval and were rewarded with an encore of another Quartet from Opus 130 “the Cavatina” that was greatness emblazoned.