The 31-year-old Peter Tchaikovsky presented his first quartet, which would one day become the first significant string quartet by a Russian composer, at a concert of his songs, piano and chamber music works in Moscow in 1871. Rapidly, his Opus 11 even found international acclaim, especially the Andante cantabile with its folk-inspired themes: The simple Ukrainian folk melody probably moved the poet Lev Tolstoy to tears at a concert in his honour in 1876. Allegedly, the composer had got inspired by the folk tune from a working Ukrainian carpenter.

Joseph Haydn, Claude Debussy or rather Jean Rivier? The choice is yours on 26 and 27 May! For »À la carte«, the Mandelring Quartet has selected nine groundbreaking works in string quartet history and represent critical works in their long history of success. In three ballots, you can choose between three works each. Mandelring violist Andreas Willwohl has compiled listening examples of the works for you to prepare. Pick your favorites and vote on May 26 or 27!