Borodin Quartet


Toronto Centre for the Arts, George Weston Recital Hall
Toronto

The Borodin Quartet, unquestionably one of the greatest music ensembles of the 20th Century performing repertoire ranging from Mozart to Stravinsky. Formed in 1945 by Valentin Berlinsky, world’s longest- lived string quartet has an unparalleled reputation and history. The Borodin Quartet celebrated its 60 th Anniversary and Berlinsky’s 80 th birthday in January with gala concerts in Moscow. Major concert halls throughout the world will honor the Quartet this season. An anniversary gala is scheduled in London, Madrid, Zurich, Geneva, Brussels, Munich, Lisbon, Athens, Cologne, Istanbul, Berlin, Prague, Mexico City, New York, Washington and Toronto.

The Borodin Quartet’s particular affinity with Russian repertoire was stimulated by their early, close relationship with Dmitry Shostakovich, who personally supervised their work on his string quartets. They have also become closely associated with the string quartets of Beethoven and produced a rich heritage of recordings over several decades.

Cellist Valentin Berlinsky has performed with the Quartet from its inception. Second violinist, Andrei Abramenkov has been a member since 1974. First violinist Ruben Aharonian and violist Igor Naidin both joined the group in 1996. Each member has been honored with awards and critical recognition individually.

Program features works by: Shostakovich, Beethoven, Borodin

“What enchanting, lovely ensemble! What perfect balance! Although it sounds like a rather often used cliché, you can actually say that this is the Russian soul speaking longingly out of the instruments.” Flensburger Tageblatt

“The Borodin’s past mastery of the music is on a level of its own. This was music-making of the very highest order.” Ottawa Citizen