Spektral Quartet

In its innovative programs, Chicago’s Spektral Quartet is widely praised for illuminating the connections between beloved works in the canon and fresh new repertoire by living composers. The ensemble’s Berkeley debut features the world premiere of a new electroacoustic composition by Samuel Adams, a bespoke work created especially for the quartet that explores, in Adams’ words, “the relationship between the minimal digital language of resonating snare drums and the warm, acoustic complexity of the string quartet.” Its title, Current, refers to “both the electric currents that activate the resonating snare drums as well as the intense, weather-blasted quality of the work’s sound world.”

Schubert’s haunting Rosamunde Quartet, and Philip Glass’ Company Quartet, originally composed for a theatrical production of Samuel Beckett’s 1979 novella of the same name, round out the expansive program.

“Spektral Quartet likes to put on performances that are not so much concerts as high-energy thrill rides for musically inquisitive listeners” (The Chicago Tribune).

SPECIAL NOTE: Spektral Quartet recently announced that the 2021–22 season will be its last, capping a remarkable 11 years as one of America’s most adventuresome and imaginative string ensembles. The group’s final performances together will take place this summer. Don’t miss this chance to experience the music-making of four gifted artists shaped by divergent histories, coming together to perform in intricate synchronicity, creating moments of profound emotion, and reflecting and interpreting the stories of different times and cultures through music.

Parking and Traffic Alerts

Parking may be a problem on campus for the Sun, Feb 13 performance due to a Cal Women’s Basketball game.

See our Parking Alert section for more information.