Serioso and Serene

Beethoven’s self-titled Serioso quartet, composed during the politically charged Napoleonic era, reflects his personal and political struggles with a sense of urgency and defiant shifts in tone, embodying a longing for freedom. 

In contrast, Dvořák’s 14th and final String Quartet radiates a broad, hopeful vision, capturing his deep love for Czech folk traditions. Written after his time in the United States, the piece expresses both pride in his heritage and a subtle resistance to the political dominance over his homeland.

Cheetham Fraillon’s Bungaree, is a powerful string quartet that highlights the often-overlooked relationship between explorer Matthew Flinders and Bungaree, a Kurringai man whose diplomacy and knowledge were instrumental in mapping Australia. Blending Indigenous Australian musical heritage with classical string quartet traditions, the piece honours Bungaree’s contributions and cultural legacy. Flinders Quartet bring us these powerful works that blend intense emotion with moments of profound calm and resolve. 

Program

L. v Beethoven, String Quartet No. 11, Op. 95, ‘Serioso’ 

D. Cheetham Fraillon, Bungaree 

A. Dvořák, String Quartet No. 14, Op. 105 in A flat 

Artists

Flinders Quartet

Elizabeth Sellars (violin)

Wilma Smith (violin)

Helen Ireland (viola)

Zoe Knighton (cello)

Duration: 70min (no interval)

This concert is generously supported by Eric McDonald and Carmen Diaz, in memory of CIMF founder Ursula Callus.

Photo credit: Pia Johnson