Please Don't Let Them Play Mozart! Vol. 2: Weiss, Carl Quartet in C major, Op. 4 No. 1
This series seeks to provide an alternative to the much-abused works of Mozart as played by developing string quartets. Pieces are technically more forthright, requiring less finesse while still offering an opportunity to learn characteristic phrasing and elements of bow control needed in Classical-period music. The Weiss is a two-movement quartet, typical of many Classical period pieces. It can also be played as a flute quartet (flute plus string trio). As such, the second violin part actually requires as much or more skill than the first violin. The first movement passes themes around the quartet in contrapuntal entrances, so everyone gets part of the action. The second movement is an Andantino in which, again, everyone shares the spotlight. This is a charming and attractive quartet!
Videos of the two movements below.
Movement 2: Andantino