Grand Rapids String Quartet (Elise Smith, violin; Ashley Grace Davies, violin; Darren Chan, viola; McCormack Wyn, cello) 

• Borodin, String Quartet No. 2 in D Major 

• Boccherini, String Quartet No. 4 in G Major, “La Tiranna” 

• Beethoven, String Quartet No. 15 in A minor, mvmt. II:  Allegro ma non Troppo 

HSO members McCormack Wyn and Darren Chan are joined by violinists Elise Smith and Ashley Grace Davies as the Grand Rapids String Quartet performs a concert of string quartet masterpieces.  Headlined by Alexander Borodin’s famous romantic String Quartet No. 2 in D major, a monumental work that has inspired musicals and movie soundtracks, the concert also includes Luigi Boccherini’s fiery Quartet No. 4 in G (“La Tiranna”), and the second movement of Beethoven’s Quartet No. 15 in A minor.   

Grand Rapids String Quartet:

The Grand Rapids String Quartet brings together four young professional musicians based in Grand Rapids dedicated to sharing the depth and beauty of the string quartet repertoire. With a balance of artistry and accessibility, they present programs that highlight both beloved masterworks and hidden gems of the chamber music repertoire.

The Program:

Luigi Boccherini – String Quartet No. 4 in G Major, “La Tiranna”

Known as one of the founding figures of the string quartet, Boccherini infused his works with elegance, wit, and a distinctly lyrical voice. His Quartet No. 4, nicknamed “La Tiranna” (“The Tyrant”), is full of dramatic contrasts and expressive flair, blending courtly charm with flashes of intensity.

Ludwig van Beethoven – String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132, II. Andante

Beethoven’s late quartets are often described as spiritual journeys. The second movement of his Quartet No. 15 offers a moment of serenity and grace, with folk-like melodies and a gentle, lilting character. It provides a respite of warmth and balance within one of Beethoven’s most profound works.

Alexander Borodin – String Quartet No. 2 in D Major

Borodin’s Second Quartet is a jewel of Romantic chamber music, beloved for its lush harmonies and heartfelt lyricism. Written as a gift to his wife, the work overflows with warmth and intimacy, featuring one of the most famous slow movements in the quartet repertoire—the Nocturne—a soaring love song without words.

No RSVP necessary. Attendance is FREE. Please consider using the following links to donate to the Second Reformed Church and the Holland Symphony Orchestra.