great stuff

Monday 23 April 2007 19:00-20:45 (Radio 3)

Martin Handley introduces the first of two concerts featuring Beethoven's late string quartets, given last month at the Wigmore Hall, London.

Duration:
1 hour 45 minutes

Playlist:
Emerson String Quartet

Beethoven: Quartet in E flat, Op 127; Quartet in F, Op 135; Quartet in C sharp minor, Op 131

I believe it is accepted practice to make a ritardando at the end of  a work even when it is not marked. Few if any composers mark a rit,but usually get one.

An old friend of mine sang inthe premiere of 'Belshazzar's Feast' and told me how Sargent insisted on making a rit at the last four chords ,despite Walton telling him at rehearsal he didn't want one.

Yes, smittims, the ABQ (as they're now often called) have played at the South Bank Centre (or the Southbank Centre, as it's about to be re-christened ) in most recent seasons I think. I don't remember what was their most recent recording but it's certainly later than 1991.

Rits at the end: depends on the performance style, doesn't it? It could happen, in certain music and in certain performing styles, but I doubt many conductors today would behave like Sargent in your story. Or imagine what a mess the end of Sibelius 5 would be if ritardandos were universal practice at the end of a work!

Yes, thoroughly enjoyed last night, will be listening, Lagavulin in hand, phone off, tonight. At the risk of becoming a bore about it, a 7.30 start and an interval would both come in handy....

Please explain to this non-musician what you mean about ritardando - which I iamgine means a slowing down. I shall listen to my disks and CDs of op 131, but I don't have a score. Ta in advance for your help.