As the lights dimmed and the first notes of Beethoven's "Quartet in D Major" rang out, Lippes Concert Hall became a symposium of strings melting in complete harmony.
The Vogler String Quartet from Berlin, Germany performed their third concert in a series of six at UB. The Cycle was originally arranged by Frederick Slee (1870-1954), a lawyer in Buffalo who had developed a great appreciation for music while attending Harvard.
Slee might have been slightly disappointed at the distinct lack of student attendance to the concert on Friday, but it did not seem to make an impact on the reception as they netted a standing ovation after performing their three selections, "Quartet in D Major," "Grosse Fuge" and "Quartet in F Major."
With a glance at each other, the four men began playing the Allegro section of the first piece, gaining the audiences rapt attention. Beethoven's chamber music is considered by many to be his most profound work, and this was certainly evident on Friday.
The harmonies were well balanced, and the quartet managed to create an impressive sense of power and passion in the Presto. The lighter tone of the previous piece made way for a richer, more dramatic sound that remained deliciously alive.
The second piece of the program, "Grosse Fuge," created a more melancholic atmosphere with the dissonance that Beethoven was known for.
During the intermission the audience gathered in the foyer, discussing in groups the pieces they had just heard. The word "beautiful" was heard more than once.
"I loved how dynamic the quartet was," said Donna Wallis, a local nurse.
The quartet had an innate sense of each other and their movement, presumably a result of having played together since 1985. There were no false notes throughout the concert. The emotions of the pieces resonated through their instruments and were made visible on their faces.
Lippes Hall was not even close to being full, which was disheartening but not entirely unexpected. It seems admirable that UB is even trying to create interest in this musical genre with numerous concerts attracting visiting artists.
"I am pleasantly surprised by the turnout," said Jennifer Harris, 60, an office worker in downtown Buffalo. "Regardless of the number of people in attendance, the standing ovation at the end made the room feel full."
The concert was a wonderful evening of high-class culture that might not have been to everyone's taste, but was a treat for those who took a chance.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
