String Quartets 2-5

The tapestry of drama, refinement and expressive lyricism in Dag Wirens four string quartets (the First Quartet was withdrawn) provides a substantial overview of his musical evolution over 35 years. His earlier works are more accessible than challenging, as demonstrated by the relaxed and affirmative Second and Third Quartets. The Fourth Quartet is more somber, with nods towards Sibelius and Shostakovich, and in the Fifth, completed not long before Wirens retirement as a composer, the easy confidence of the earlier quartets has been replaced by a mood of pessimism and uncertainty. The Wiren Quartet was formed in 1994 with Hans Elvkull and Linn Elvkull, who are still part of the ensemble. Roger Olsson and Hanna Thorell have been members since 2003. All four musicians play in the internationally renowned Swedish Chamber Orchestra.