Joseph Haydn was not the inventor of the string quartet, but he almost single-handedly brought the form to flower and established it as the supreme discipline in chamber music. A pioneer for subsequent composers, Haydn experimented with musical arrangements and tonal effects, as a result of which many of his quartets bear a characteristic proper name – for example, the »Kaiserquartett,« the musical origin of the German national anthem. In the series of »Erdödy Quartets« named after the patron, the second quartet was given the nickname »Quintenquartett« (Quint Quartet) because of the musically highly innovative use of this basic interval, a creative play of two descending fifths.

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!