Scoreload

Aleksandr Borodin was a Russian composer, chemist, and doctor who lived in the 19th century. His String Quartet No. 2 is one of his most well-known compositions and is particularly famous for several interesting aspects:

1. Incompleteness: Borodin's String Quartet No. 2 is often referred to as his "unfinished" quartet. He started composing it in 1881 but left it incomplete at the time of his death in 1887. The quartet was later completed by Borodin's friend and fellow composer Alexander Glazunov.

2. Dedication: The second string quartet is dedicated to Borodin's wife, Ekaterina Protopopova. He inscribed the score with the words "To my wife," expressing his deep love and affection for her.

3. Famous Nocturne: The third movement of the quartet, known as the "Nocturne," is one of Borodin's most famous and beloved pieces. Its lyrical and expressive nature has made it particularly popular as a standalone work and has been transcribed for various instruments.

4. Nationalistic Themes: Borodin, along with other composers like Mussorgsky and Rimsky-Korsakov, was part of the Russian nationalist movement in music. This quartet, like much of Borodin's work, incorporates elements of Russian folk music and features a strong nationalistic character.

5. Quartet Structure: The quartet follows the traditional four-movement structure commonly found in classical string quartets: I. Allegro, II. Scherzo, III. Nocturne, and IV. Finale. Despite its incomplete state, the quartet still stands as a testament to Borodin's skill in crafting engaging and expressive chamber music.

6. Posthumous Premiere: Borodin never heard the complete version of his String Quartet No. 2 during his lifetime. The premiere of the finished quartet took place in 1889, two years after Borodin's death, with Glazunov conducting the quartet.

Borodin's String Quartet No. 2 remains a cherished work in the chamber music repertoire, celebrated for its emotional depth, melodic beauty, and the fascinating story behind its creation and completion.