The world of music is continuously vibrant, especially with the dynamic performances promised by various quartets this year. Opening the season with flair, the ‘Interfinity’ festival will host the renowned Gershwin Piano Quartet on March 22, 2025. Known for enchanting audiences since their inception in 1996, the quartet brings together four exceptional pianists playing on four grand pianos. Their performances consist of original arrangements reflecting the extensive chronicles of music history, blending classical virtuosity with jazz improvisation. The ensemble states, “At the center of the work of the Gershwin Piano Quartet is always the very personal engagement with the chosen pieces, transcending usual interpretative boundaries.” Fans can expect both faithful transcriptions and innovative compositions laced with improvisational techniques.
Yet, the shifts within musical groups also tell compelling stories. The quartet ‘LiLy’ from Barsinghausen, which has delighted audiences for over five years with thoughtful interpretations and imaginative themes, is transitioning to become the duo ‘La Poesia’. This change marks the quartet’s heartfelt farewell to its fans. Hans-Jürgen Wolfgram shared, “We are incredibly thankful for unforgettable moments performing for such fantastic audiences.” The duo, consisting of Wolfgram and his partner, aims to continue delivering imaginative poetry and passionate singing, assuring followers of their commitment to the art and the experiences they will share as they move forward.
Meanwhile, the Hans Fickelscher Quartet reimagines the traditional gospel format during their concert at Christuskirche. This ensemble showcases how gospel can be expressed with flair, moving rhythmically through various styles, from blues to Latin grooves. Fickelscher remarked on the challenge, stating, “We aim to carve out our own paths during gospel concerts.” The audience embraced these experiments, reveling particularly during medleys featuring songs by Whitney Houston and classic numbers from icons like Harry Belafonte, culminating in riotous applause and demands for encores.
On January 17, 2025, the quartet ‘Cats & Breakkies’ will revisit Moritzhof, blending genres to create an exhilarating mix of club and techno infused with elements of jazz and art rock. This Berlin quartet invites listeners to engage fully, balancing danceable tunes with atmospheric soundscapes. They summarize their style succinctly as “Organic Electro”, aiming to delight those who wish to dance or to appreciate the subtleties of their productions.
Jazz appears to be extending its arms wider still with the quartet ‘Moles Ahead’, who’ve been intertwining various jazz styles since 2017. Stalwarts of the genre, their repertoire spans from classic standards to contemporary fusion. The group is set to perform on January 17 at the Kurhaustheater, presenting both original compositions alongside beloved classics, offering something for every jazz lover.
Looking forward, each of these quartets exemplifies how music evolves and continues to engage audiences across different genres. The Gershwin Piano Quartet sets the momentum with their classic meets jazz aesthetic, whereas ‘LiLy’ turns the page to ‘La Poesia’, crafting the delicate balance between nostalgia and innovation. The Hans Fickelscher Quartet shakes gospel tradition, ‘Cats & Breakkies’ spins electronic soundscapes, and ‘Moles Ahead’ keeps jazz’s foundations strong yet flexible. Each performance is not only about the sound but is also deeply interwoven with community sentiments and artistic expression.
This year promises to be rich with musical explorations, and it seems audiences can look forward to diverse experiences from every quartet. These performances encourage participation and emotional engagement, showcasing the vitality inherent to live music and the unique ability of quartets to both innovate and celebrate musical heritage.