London Haydn Quartet

The London Haydn Quartet distinguishes itself among British ensembles devoted to Classical-era string quartets through its commitment to authentic instruments fitted with gut strings and performed using bows from that period. Although Haydn’s compositions form a primary focus, the group explores a broader range of works.

In 2000, violinists Catherine Manson and Michael Gurevich joined forces with violist John Crockatt and cellist Jonathan Manson, united by their shared passion for Haydn; this lineup has stayed unchanged since formation. Invitations to present concerts on chamber series across Europe, North America, and Japan followed promptly, encompassing appearances at Tokyo’s Yamaha and Asahi Halls. Performances have taken place at prestigious locations such as London’s Wigmore Hall, New York’s Carnegie Hall, and Esterháza Palace, Haydn’s historic residence. While centering on Haydn, the quartet frequently juxtaposes his pieces with Beethoven’s during programs, thereby illuminating fresh relationships between the two composers’ outputs.

Recordings and live performances have included partnerships with period clarinetist Eric Hoeprich, yielding 2007 releases of the Brahms and Mozart clarinet quintets on the Glossa imprint. Its Hyperion project documenting Haydn’s quartets occupies a central place in the discography, beginning in 2007 with the Op. 9 set and extending by the end of 2017 to encompass those of Op. 54 and Op. 55. This endeavor garnered substantial praise from critics, facilitating global engagements that included tours spanning four continents during 2016 and 2017.

Returning to Glossa in 2017, the ensemble captured clarinet quintets by Bernhard Crusell, followed in 2020 by further sessions featuring works from Carl Maria von Weber and Franz Krommer. The Hyperion Haydn cycle reached completion in 2023 via releases of the Op. 77 pair, the lone Op. 42 quartet, and The Seven Last Words of Our Savior on the Cross. Throughout the late 2010s and into the early 2020s, the London Haydn Quartet maintained a regular presence in the United States and Canada while also venturing to Australia and Singapore.