Performing widely in the UK and Italy for over three decades, the Lochrian String Quartet has received much acclaim for its rich sound and sensitive music-making. The Quartet has regularly played at St George’s Bristol and further afield, at the Potentino Music Festival and the Morellino International Classical Music Festival in Tuscany, and is known for its eclectic performances and wide-ranging collaborations, particularly with contemporary composers championing new music.
The Quartet appears on television, including many performances on BBC’s Songs of Praise. Recordings for film and in cross-genre collaborations with other artists are further examples of the group’s diversity. Their collaboration with Cuban band Asere, ‘Destinos’, was described by Time Out as ‘An album that will blow you away’.
The Lochrian String Quartet’s passion for new music led to extensive work with composer Mark Springer, recording many of his chamber works. They also collaborated with English composer Colin Bayliss in the production of a double CD of his complete string quartets: the last quartet in the collection, ‘in Locrian mode’ was dedicated to them.
Past performances have included concerts with legendary Russian Theremin player Lydia Kavina and the world premiere of Mark Springer’s Wine Quintet at the London Sketch Club. The Lochrian String Quartet has also enjoyed collaborations with storyteller Michael Loader from Wild Words and professional dancer, Emelia Nurminen.
“Many, many thanks for the wonderful start you gave to our season. ..your performances were of a very high order and were greatly enjoyed by all…it is a real fillip for members of the audience to see the musicians smiling at one another obviously enjoying the moment despite having to concentrate on the most intricate of musical passages. Knowing looks and gestures belie the consummate skills you all possess that underpins such effortless playing…”
Roger Lawrence (Yatton Music Festival)
“Just to say how much we enjoyed the concert at Birdcombe Court. It was a lovely evening. The venue was fun and delightfully intimate – your programme was immensely interesting; we appreciated the introductions and most especially it was such a pleasure to hear you all playing. We look forward to the next concert.”
Christine and Barrie Haley