Beethoven's String Quartets
FYSEMR 38T
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
Since the late eighteenth century, composers have often reserved their most ambitious and complex thoughts for their string quartets. The ensemble of two violins, viola and cello can create a homogeneous sound but also has an enormous potential for sonic variety. Beethoven's sixteen quartets span almost his entire creative output, ranging from the classical Six Quartets, Op. 18 of 1800, to the transcendent, pioneering late quartets, the last completed in 1826, the year before his death in 1827. These works contain the full range of Beethoven's musical expression.
The seminar will work from scores, selected recordings, and live performances connected to the Parker Quartet's Harvard residency. Seminar members will play excerpts from the quartets in class. Everyone shall prepare individual projects. We will also go on a field trip to hear a professional string quartet. Although the primary focus will be on the participants' interpretations of the works, the seminar will also read and discuss texts by Lewis Lockwood, Joseph Kerman, Robert Winter, and others. Our goals are to get to know one of the great collections of works in Western music; to improve listening and score-reading skills; to learn to talk about and write about music.
NOTE: Recommended Preparation - Participants should be able to read music (at least treble and bass clef).
NOTE: The seminar includes required attendance at one live performance outside of the regular class time.
Class Notes
First-Year Seminars are available only to first-year students. You may apply to both Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 First-Year Seminars via the FYS lottery between July 6 and August 6, 2026 at 11:59PM-midnight.
You may apply to as many seminars each term as you would like, but we recommend you apply to at least six in fall and three in spring.
As part of your application, you must provide a brief statement on why you are interested in each seminar. You will be notified of lottery results for both fall and spring seminars at 5 pm on August 11. If you are unsuccessful in the lottery, you may still join any seminar with open seats. A list of open seminars and instructions on next steps will be available on the First-Year Seminar Program website August 11 at 12 Noon.
Not Available for Cross Registration
