Tasting Music III finds WWCMF at Rasa Vineyards tasting room for the Quartet in A minor, Op. 35, by Anton Arensky.

This work, dedicated to the memory of Tchaikovsky, stands as a truly unique and heartfelt treatment of four string instruments. A string quartet is usually comprised of two violins, a viola and a cello. Here, Arensky inverts the ensemble, reinforcing the rich soulful low end of the group with one violin, one viola, and two cellos. The result is an wondrous piece. From its introduction in the style of mournful Russian Orthodox plainchant to its rowdy and celebratory conclusion, Arensky pays homage to his idol. While there are no cannons in the percussion section, and no percussion section for that matter, the influence of Tchaikovsky abounds. It is fitting that the wines of Rasa Vineyards pay tribute to influences as diverse as the framers of the Constitution and Sir Isaac Newton, reflecting the identities of brothers and managing partner and winemaker, Pinto and Billo Naravane. Both music and wine will be a tribute to an evening you will not soon forget.

Anton Arensky (1861-1906)

String Quartet No. 2 in a minor, Op. 35 for violin, viola and 2 cellos

I. Moderato

II.Thème (and Variations). Moderato

III. Finale. Andante sostenuto - Allegro moderato

Artists: Timothy Christie, Philip Payton, David Requiro and Meta Weiss