Laura Tunbridge presents Shall we blend? Models for ensemble performance.

The characteristic sound of an ensemble is often described in terms of how well blended it is - whether, in Bernard Fournier's terms, it is homogenous or heterogenous. This talk explores what that might mean for string quartets and piano trios, with examples drawn from recordings of Beethoven and Britten as well as historical perspectives on chamber music aesthetics.

Laura Tunbridge is a Professor of Music at the University of Oxford. Her books include Schumann's Late Style, The Song Cycle, and Beethoven: A Life in Nine Pieces. She is currently writing a history of the string quartet.

Tickets are free of charge but must be reserved in advance.

A musician of penetrating insight, Hans Keller (1919-1985) was also an exceptional broadcaster, passionate teacher and compulsive writer, whose remarkable mind dominated British musical life for forty years after the Second World War. His extensive archive was donated to the University Library in 1995 by his widow, the artist Milein Cosman.

Hans Keller Forum (HKF) provides in-depth mentorship for selected chamber ensembles from UK conservatoires. It runs as a set of three day residential courses held at West Road Concert Hall.

The ensembles selected for the 2023/24 forum are:

Quartet Concrète - GSMD

Trio Havisham - RAM

Lark Trio - RCS

Talland Quartet - RNCM

They will be mentored by Alasdair Beatson, John Myerscough and Richard Ireland.