The Balanescu Quartet

Overview

Established in 1987 by composer-violinist Alexander Balanescu, the Balanescu Quartet claim to have "a sensibility nearer to a band than a classical group". The long-standing ensemble have a pretty rock 'n' roll reputation in the contemporary musical world, having spent around 25 years challenging traditional expectations about the limits of what a string quartet can do, or should do. They're known for their dynamic, energetic (some might say hypnotic) live performances, and they've collaborated with everyone from Pina Bausch to Kate Bush. They're especially famous for their complicated Kraftwerk covers, which featured on their album Possessed.

This particular show is a performance of their 2005 album Maria T, which is inspired by the legendary Romanian folk singer Maria Tanase and actually uses some of her original recordings. To provide a visual as well as aural feast, the quartet are collaborating with Austrian video artist Klaus Obermaier. So maybe take advantage of the hall's amazing acoustics and embrace a one-night-only opportunity to catch a unique string quartet at the peak of their game.