Tonight’s performance has been made possible by the generosity of Larry and Sharon Clinton; and Rick and Cecile Ervin.

Count ’em, 84 string quartets. What’s more, they are all good. Joseph Haydn is known for many things: longevity, business savvy, kindness to his peers, prolific output, and limitless invention. He composed extensively in all genres sacred and secular. Masses, operas, symphonies, oratorios, concertos and sonatas form only a partial list.

Through the execution of his duties to the noble Esterhazy family in Hungary, Haydn invented modern chamber music as we know it. This evening we will explore a tiny sliver of the 84 string quartets Haydn composed, and investigate works by later composers who extended his legacy through pioneering the medium of the string quartet. We will also challenge pioneering mixologist Jim German to craft 84 suitable cocktails for the occasion, each with no more than four ingredients… A new body of quartets altogether!

Artists: Timothy Christie, viola; Norbert Lewandowski, cello; Christina McGann, violin;  Stephen Miahky, violin; Philip Payton, violin; Maria Sampen, viola; Sally Singer Tuttle, cello; and MingHuan Xu, violin.