Concert review: Abeo Quartet

I was immediately captivated by the warmth of second violinist Rebecca Benjamin’s sound at the start of Mendelssohn’s String Quartet op.12. This marked the opening of the Abeo Quartet’s concert in the Schneider Concert Series at the New School. The musicians’ engaging introductions to each work helped to focus the listening and the audience was duly appreciative.

The Andante espressivo brought an open-hearted generosity to the room, with the Abeo bringing to it well-rounded phrasing that was not overly dramatic. The Molto allegro e vivace was performed with finesse, clarity and lovely phrasing but lacked distinctiveness and seemed a bit cautious. However, the transition into the second theme was very effective and the quartet demonstrated impressive ensemble playing in the semiquaver runs.

Reena Esmail’s Ragamala (written in 2013) followed, and the Abeo’s deep understanding of the score came through impressively. Melodies were impeccably dovetailed, the musicians’ seamless entrances making for a thoughtful interpretation, culminating in a final Rondo full of welcome energy.

Brahms’s String Quartet no.1 in C minor finished the programme and while I could have done with more power from leader Njioma Grevious in the early movements, she was well supported by the group. The Romanze featured a gorgeous cello solo from Macintyre Tabak and finely shaped phrases. The finale was performed with due energy and commitment, leading up to a suitably dramatic ending.

LEAH HOLLINGSWORTH